6 questions about nail care

Each part of our body deserves attention and specific treatments. In the case of nails, to keep them healthy, it’s important to take some care in everyday life. Sanding and moisturizing, for example, are almost mandatory actions in the routine. So, below, see the main nail care.

1. Should we remove the cuticle?

This is one of the biggest doubts that populate the imagination of Brazilian women. In many countries, this habit does not exist, which is very good, as the cuticle exists to protect our nail. When removed, it can open doors for microorganisms and cause infections. Therefore, the professionals at the Swimex unit of the Lady&Lord franchise network, Ester Chavier and Esteli Pereira, advise you to push the cuticle carefully with a spatula.

2. Is sanding good or bad?

According to the manicurist Bruna de Souza, sanding the length has no contraindications, because it depends a lot on the taste of each one, the length of the nail that most pleases, the shape and many other factors. On the other hand, sandpaper, used on the surface of the nail, helps a lot in beautification, but its use is indicated for a maximum of once a week or every 15 days, depending on the structure of the nails.

3. Does the nail need to breathe?

According to dermatologist Cristiane Dal Magro, in some cases, yes, you need to go a few days without nail polish. “In case of weak and brittle nails, or that have the ends ‘detaching’, it is necessary to not use nail polish for a period of 30 to 60 days, depending on the case”, she recommends.

Permanent problems of weak and peeling nails should be observed by a dermatologist for specific tests to be carried out. In the case of healthy nails, the dermatologist recommends going a day without nail polish between applications, so that they are free of any chemical substance on the surface. During this period, it is important to apply moisturizers to the hands and cuticles.

4. How to hydrate well and keep your nails strong?

Firstly, the hydration essential part of our body must come from the inside out, drinking plenty of water and having a healthy and balanced diet. However, in addition, we can hydrate the external part of our body, which helps in maintaining health.

When nails become dry, they become brittle as they lose elasticity. For efficient hydration, dermatologist Cristiane Dal Magro recommends products based on urea, ammonium lactate and substances that prevent local dehydration, such as silicones. “As a matter of practicality, they are indicated for use before bed, when we spend more hours without washing our hands. A gentle massage should be performed on the nails and cuticles, ”she teaches.

5. Why do nails become weak?

There may be several causes for weak nails, says Cristiane Dal Magro. “If the problem is persistent, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist, who may request laboratory tests to check for possible systemic changes that are causing abnormalities in the nails”. Most of our organism’s problems can be cured or alleviated with a healthy and balanced diet, even in the case of weak and brittle nails.

6. What are white spots on nails?

Our body it has several ways of showing us when something is not quite right, and the nail can show some signs. White spots, also known as focal leukonychia, can appear for many reasons, such as injuries caused by friction and the use of chemical products such as detergents and nail polish, which can make nails weaker.

The use of antibiotics can also favor the appearance of these stains and people who exercise and make constant repetitive movements may also have stains on their nails. However, the most common cause is the lack of nutrients in the body as iron, zinc, vitamin A, B3, B6 and B12.

In each case, the type of stain is different. To reverse the condition, it is necessary to seek a professional to analyze the cause and indicate the best treatment, such as modifying the diet and taking vitamin supplements.