Keep Your Nails Healthy

THE NAIL, A LIVING TISSUE MAINLY COMPOSED OF KERATIN

The nails are subjected daily to a series of traumatism not negligible (shock, cold, water,). Their good health depends on a balanced diet, regular care, and a daily hygiene.

The nail extends beyond the visible part. It grows from the matrix, located at the base of the nail, under the skin. One can see the end of the matrix with the lunula ("small moon" in Latin), this white part of the nail, more visible on the thumb.

Like the hair, the nail consists of 95% keratin and grows thanks to this protein which contains amino acids sulfur, including cystine and methionine. Growth of nails is about 3 millimeters per month for a hand nail and about 1.5 millimeters for a toenail.

THE APPEARANCE OF OUR NAILS SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT OUR HEALTH

Fragile or brittle hair and nails are often the result of fragile keratin. Thus, to promote the synthesis of this fibrous protein, an intake of amino acids, vitamins and minerals is required.

The zinc, iron and vitamins of group B are preferred to preserve beautiful nails. These micronutrients contribute to the manufacture and protection of the nail. For example, vitamin B6 is essential for the synthesis of cysteine ​​(the amino acid used in the composition of keratin).

Yellow nails are often the result of the consumption of cigarettes, or of daily use of varnishes (dark pigments), without base of protective varnish. However, taking certain medications may also be responsible for the yellowing of the nail.

Pale nails may be a sign of circulatory disorders (poor blood oxygenation, poor circulation). Indeed, the nail is not colored, it is the underlying blood vessels that give its pink color.

Finally, some trauma (shock, crushing) can reveal black spots, linked to an accumulation of blood in the nail bed under the nail.

Do not hesitate to consult a general practitioner or a dermatologist for any distortion or change in the appearance of your nails.

NAILS: EASY PREY FOR UNWANTED MICROORGANISMS

Nail fungus is frequently caused by a microscopic fungus, yeast or even mold.

It mainly affects the nails of the feet and is first manifested by a white or even yellowish task at the free edge of the nail and then gradually extends to the base. The nail thickens gradually.

Prevention:

Consider drying fingers and toes thoroughly after each wash,

Change your shoes regularly to air them,

Use an antifungal powder in shoes,

If you are going to frequent spaces favoring their appearance: swimming pools, gyms, sauna, ...

MANICURE, THE RULES TO TAKE CARE OF HIS NAILS

To keep the nails as healthy as possible, the first recommendation is to space the frequency of manicures to allow the nails to breathe. This will also allow you to observe the actual condition of the nail. In addition, the varnish and the products used to remove it are drying and make the nail less robust.

Before replacing the varnish, it is imperative to remove all traces of the previous varnish (even transparent) with a dissolvent if possible without acetone (less aggressive for the nail).

Applying a protective base will preserve the nails from the yellowing associated with the pigment of certain varnishes. Then, lay the varnish from the base of the nail to the free edge, avoiding cuticles and nail furrows.

Some experts advise against removing the cuticles during a manicure. The latter protect the body from moisture and microbes present in the air.

BITING THE NAILS, A WIDESPREAD TIC

Onychophagia, is a compulsive attitude consisting of nail biting, often caused by stress. Impatient people, who get bored quickly, are also easily prone to this type of behavior.

The most affected populations are children, adolescents and young adults. This practice tends to stop around the age of 30.

The consequences of this bad habit, beyond the aesthetic are the occurrence of cutaneous micro lesions. In addition, nail biting promotes the transmission of bacteria from the hands to the mouth...

How to stop nail biting? First, you have to identify the moments when envy occurs to identify the cause, and then find some tricks to remember to order. The use of bitter varnish can also be dissuasive.

Source: Laboratoire Lescuyer