“Naked” manicure: how to take care of your nails if you don’t use varnish

Experts told you how to take care of your nails if you are not going to visit a salon or do a manicure at home in the near future.

According to New York dermatologist Jessica Krant, the best way to keep your nails healthy is to cut them short, leaving a white streak of 1 to 2 millimeters. “It’s also very important to gently file the plates to remove any jagged corners and seal the edge,” says Jessica. “It will make the nails stronger and also make them easier to clean.”

According to Krant, there are only short fingernails, and there are dangerously short ones. “Don’t cut off all the white part,” says the dermatologist. “So you can open your finger for infections to enter.”

Read also: “Nude, come back”: what to do if your nails turn yellow

Sarah Gibson Tuttle, the creator of her own nail shop, recalls that germs can settle under nails of any length. “The most effective defense against them is regular, proper hand washing,” says Tuttle.

She advises daily brushing under the nails with a brush and antibacterial soap. Sarah recommends washing all metal tools after each use and changing nail files every few months.

This principle applies to cutting nails correctly: 90% of the shape you give them with pliers or scissors, 10% with a nail file. According to Mitien Le, owner of a company that makes nail and hand care products, it’s also very important to remember not to cut your nails starting from the middle. Instead, hold the tweezers at an angle and move to either side of the nail along the curved edge – this will prevent the plate from warping and damaging.

Read also: White Spots and 5 Other Signs Your Nails Need a Polish Break

It softens and moisturizes the skin, prevents the appearance of burrs, stimulates nail growth and protects them from external influences. The use of cuticle oil is very simple: apply a few drops on the nail bed and rub with your fingers until completely absorbed. You need to do this daily – the easiest way to arrange this procedure is in the evening before bedtime. If you don’t have a professional remedy, unrefined coconut, almond or olive oils can be substituted.