Nails are often treated as an aesthetic part of our body, but did you know that they function as a reflection of our physical health?
In this article, we’ll explore what our nails say about us, and how to properly care for them.
Look Out For Indications
Different nail textures and colours are often indicators of other conditions going on in our bodies. Refer to the list below to watch out for these signs and their health indicators:
- Brittle Nails
Cause: Frequent wetting and drying
Treatment: Lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin
- Soft or Weak Nails
Cause: Overexposure to moisture and chemicals
Treatment: Keep nails natural and unpolished, or take multivitamins
- Peeling
Cause: Injuries or iron deficiency
Treatment: Keep nails moisturised, or take iron-rich foods
- Ridges
Cause: Aging, kidney disease, or underlying conditions
Treatment: Gently buff nails, or talk to a healthcare professional
- Yellow Nails
Cause: Infection or reaction to products
Treatment: Allow nails to grow out, or apply tea tree oil or vitamin E if infected
- Black Lines
Cause: Injury
Treatment: Allow nail to grow out
- No Half Moons
Cause: Nothing
Treatment: If accompanied by other health symptoms, talk to a healthcare professional
Nail Care
Nail care comprises good hygiene, protection, and nutrition. Refer to these steps below:
- Regularly clip your nails with nail clippers to avoid injury, breakage, and dirt build-up.
- If your toe nails are too hard to clip, try softening them by soaking your toes in warm water.
- Moisturise your nails with cuticle creams at night to prevent them from cracking.
- Protect your nails with a base coat and a top coat.
- Keep nails dry and clean by using gloves when cleaning with harsh chemicals.
- Avoid using your nails as tools, such as when opening pop cans.
- Sparingly indulge in acrylic or gel treatments in order to reduce exposure to UV light from drying devices, and minimise damage on your nails.
- Load up on protein-rich foods such as beans, fish, and nuts.
- Take foods rich in biotin, Vitamin E, and fish oil.
Sources: Healthline, WebMD, MayoClinic, Good Housekeeping
