Nails Your Way

Growing Healthy Attractive Nails

Your nails are an extension of you for the whole world to see. Many people's nails demonstrate their individuality, from their choice of fingernail and toenail polish, to nail art or trendy nail jewelry. But behind these finishing touches, you'll find your most important accessory-healthy, attractive nails.

No matter what your daily routine, everyday life can take a toll on nails. Nails are subject to damage and disease, and if ignored, some conditions can lead to more serious problems. That's why it is important to practice good "nail health" as part of your overall well being. If you are visiting a nail salon regularly, then you are already a step ahead when it comes to practicing good nail health. Your manicurist is a great resource for helping you keep your nails in tip-top shape on both the inside and outside. Vitamin B supplements are helpful in overcoming nail weakness. Nails are actually a hardened version of the skin. Just like the hair on your head, nails are subject to damage from the elements and require nutrients and proper diet to keep them healthy.

The following terms describe the structure of the nails. Matrix: The matrix is the only living part of your nail. Nourished by the bloodstream, the matrix is where nail growth begins. Lunula: The half moon found at the base of the nail and is the only visible part of the nail matrix. Cuticle: The fine thin skin surrounding the base of the nail and it acts as a protective seal against infection. Cuticles should be kept soft and pliable and pushed away from the nail to prevent hangnails. Nail plate: The see-through shield is commonly thought of as the nail itself and is made up of hardened, dead cells. Nail fold: This layer of skin covers the edges of the nail plate on all sides except the tip. It holds the nail in place. Free edge: The outer tip of the nail plate that extends past the finger.

Rippling ridges are a common nail problem. Although you can't stop ridges from forming, you can smooth them. Buffing with a soft block buffer will help even them out. A base coat strengthener, ridge filler, then a French manicure will help camouflage ridges. The French horizontal stripe makes the vertical lines much less noticeable. Another common problem is thin, flimsy fingernails. Nail strength is mostly determined by genetics. Thin nails can be nourished and fortified by applying a strengthener weekly. Brittle, over dry nails cause splits, peels, chips and breaks. To keep them supple, apply a rich hand cream to nails and cuticles two or three times a day until you see improvement. Once a week, give the nails a deep-conditioning treatment manicure. Slow nail growth is also a common problem for many people. Nail growth becomes slower as you get older and tends to be more sluggish in winter than in summer. Massaging the cuticles with oil stimulates the nail matrix and generates new cells. Pressure point reflexology to the hands will stimulate blood flow and decrease the dryness in the cuticles and nails. A professional licensed Manicurist and Onyxologist can easily treat many common nail problems.

Making the transition from acrylic to natural nails can be a long process, but with patience and commitment, you can make the change. The first step is to have the artificial nail product soaked off gently in order to prevent further damage to the natural nails. Damage to the natural nails can range from thinning, brittleness, or fungal infections-to the separation or lifting of the natural nail from the nail plate. When artificial nails have been worn too long without allowing a "rest" or "recovery" period, this often results in damage to the nail matrix (growth center). The next step is to have a hot oil treatment or a spa manicure using grape-seed oil wax dips along with the nail fluoride strengthener treatment in order to begin the healing process. You should also have your manicurist place you on a home care recovery program using a nail strengthener, cuticle oil and other nail products for home use. You should commit to having a manicure every week for the first six weeks, until your manicurists lets you know that it is okay to have a manicure every two or three weeks. Natural nail manicures for six to ten weeks will help restore health to the natural nails unless severe lifting, fungus, severe scarring from drill damage or separation of the nail plate has occurred in which case complete recovery can take as long as eight, ten or twelve months.

The current fingernail length of choice is short-no more than a quarter-inch beyond fingertips-and slightly squared. Popular shades this season range from soft pinks, deep wines and plums to dark burgundy. A professional licensed Manicurist and Onyxologist can help you grow into healthy attractive natural nails with a good home care plan.

Read Jeanne's Latest Monthly Article In Chapel Hill News & Views.

Nails Your Way
Jeanne Grace Curtis
5900 Orchard Road
Douglasville GA 30135-4726

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770-949-3113