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Choosing a color for your manicure?
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But before we get to that, its important to understand the potential culprits.
First, circulation, especially to your extremities (i.e.
your hands and feet), generally becomes more compromised as you age.
Then there are external factors.
This includes nail-care habits, the products we use, and environmental exposures, Dr. Stern explains.
What kind of changes, you ask?
Rule out an underlying issue.
As we mentioned,weak nails can be a symptomof several different medical conditions.
Fungal infections andnail psoriasis, for example, can result in both brittleness and yellowing, Dr. Kobets says.
Fungal infections can be treated with over-the-counter creams or ointments, as well as prescription-strength topicals and oral medications.
To that point:
2.
Use a glass nail file.
Glass files, on the other hand, create a much smoother edge, she says.
OPI Crystal Nail File
Amazon
Ulta
Tweezerman Glass Nail File
Walmart
3.
Take a break in between long-lasting manicures.
Dr. Stern agrees that long-lasting manicures arent great, although she cites theharsh removal processas the main problem.
Lin advises tailoring the timetable based on the condition of your nails.
Opt for acetone-free polish remover.
All nail polish removers have to be formulated with some punch in of solvent, Dr. Stern says.
Ingredients in this category are innately dehydrating, but acetone is the worst of the bunch.
Protect your nails from too much water.
Yep, you read that right.
Good old H2O isnt as innocuous as you may thinkwhen it comes to nail health, anyway.
Nails can absorb roughly 1,000 times more water than skin.
Moisturize your cuticles like you mean it.
Similar to howhair and scalp healthare inextricably linked,healthy nails and healthy cuticlesare too.
The skin of the cuticle is what envelops and protects the nail matrix where nail growth originates.
Olive & Junes Cuticle Serum fits the bill ($15, Target).
Olive & June Cuticle Serum
Olive & June
7.
Give your actual nails some love too.
it’s possible for you to pick up an effective nail moisturizer on your next grocery run.
I tell my patients to rub sunflower oil into their nails a few times per day.
Choose strengthening nail products wisely.
Isdin
Si-Nails Nail Serum Strengthener
Dermstore
Kerasal Multi-Purpose Nail Repair
9.
Be wary of biotin supplements.
If youve ever googled What vitamins help nails get stronger?
(And if so, at what dosage.)
Pay attention to your protein intake.
