GET NAILS AT HOME...??

Great Nails: Tips on how to get healthy and long nails

Nail Care

Everyone wants great looking nails. Healthy and sexy nails can be the polish to a great outfit, the mood lifter to a bad day and/or a turn on to those who find you attractive. I became very much aware of my nails about 8 years ago after I saw the damage that acrylics were doing to them. I no longer wanted to keep up with the bi-weekly expense and I felt it made no sense to pay to ruin my nails. I admired the look of long, polished nails. There was something classy and elegant in it which I never thought I would achieve naturally. Apart from this, I ventured into the process and after all these years I can say that I will never do acrylics again! Having nice looking nails is feasible and all it takes is patience and some care. Here are a few tips to guide you along the rode to immaculate fingernails.

Tips

1. The first and most important tip is drink LOTS AND LOTS of water. Everyone knows how important water is to the body, the same goes for your nails. You should at least be drinking 8 glasses of water each day. It will keep your nails hydrated and prevent dryness and breaking.

2. Cut and trim your nails frequently. Even if you are trying to grow out your nails, this rule holds truth. You can file them instead of using nail clippers. Just remember to file them in one direction. Filing them back and forth will cause the nail to become weak and inevitably damage them.

3. Keep nails and cuticles moisturized with cuticle oil. Like drinking water, this prevents dryness. Where water will help the nails grow internally, cuticle oil will have a more direct effect externally. I have found that cremes do not work as well as oils. Oils get absorbed better into my cuticles and it softens them considerably. I use Sally Hansen Vitamin E Cuticle Oil. I apply it twice a day. Once in the morning and then again before I go to bed. It's good to apply on the cuticles put then spend a few minutes massaging it into your whole nail. The massage will stimulate blood flow and help them grow stronger.

4. Keep your nails the same length and shape them semi-square to oval. Too square will be more prone to breakage. Having them a little rounded at the edges will cause less nicks and splits.

5. Use a top coat and base coat. A base coat serves many purposes. Using a base coat will not only prevent your nails from turning yellow when using nail polish but it will also help your manicure last longer. There are a wide variety of base coats in the market but I like to use one that also provides some strength to my nails. I have discovered a few years ago a product called Nail Magic. It is a nail hardener that strengthens your nails while at the same time promoting growth. It has worked many times for me. After I cut my nails the same length, I would apply Nail Magic as a base coat and proceed with my usual polish. I use it differently from what the instructions state but it works nonetheless. I apply Nail Magic about once a week but I believe the instructions state to apply it about 3x a week. I recommend to follow instructions in the beginning of your nail regime but once you have had successful results you can switch to once a week. A top coat is essential because it works as a sealer. After you apply your desired nail polish, a top coat will help your nail shine and your polish stay on longer without chipping. A manicure usually lasts 5-7 days but can last longer if you brush on a top coat every 1-2 days. I also find it helpful to apply the top coat to the ends/tips of your nails and at the edges. It ensures extra protection.

6. Be aware of your nails. Don't use your nails as tool such as trying to remove something from your teeth or using them to open soft drinks. This will apply pressure to your nail which is something you are trying to avoid.

7. Wear vinyl gloves when doing household chores. Harsh chemicals that are frequently found in house cleaners will lead to splitting and peeling. These solvents could strip your hand and nails of natural oils if gloves are not worn. Also, try to avoid too much exposure to water for long periods of time. This will soften the nail and make it very easy to bend. Immediately after cleaning, try to lotion hands to regain moisture.

8. Applying garlic to your nail will greatly improve its strength. You can do it in numerous ways. One way is to pierce the clove with your nail and leave it inside for a couple of minutes, about 15 minutes. Afterwards you can wash. You can do this up to a few times a week. This is a quick way of giving your nail the garlic treatment. Another way is to strip bits of garlic and combine it inside a clear nail polish bottle. Let the mixture sit for about 5 days and you have your own nail hardener. The smell wears off after a while and you can't really smell it. Apply your home-made hardener up to twice a day.

9. Avoid using 100% (pure) acetone nail polish remover. Your nails will be dehydrated and cause them to be brittle. There are non acetone based nail polish removers that can be used as a substitute. Although these are not as strong and can make it more difficult to remove some designs and decorations (like rhinestones), it is beneficial because of the minimal damage it inflicts.

10. Don't pick or cut your cuticles, doing so will leave them at risk of bacteria entering the nail bed if the skin is cut. You can push back your cuticles gently if need be. Use a cuticle pusher at a 45 degree angle to achieve this.

Following these simple steps can help you have healthy and long nails in a few weeks. I am a mom and with a toddler running around, I still manage to have decently long nails that I am proud of. Although they occasionally break from time to time because of the chaos that surrounds me (I myself am guilty of not following all rules), I try to pamper myself at least once a week and give myself a manicure. Everyone deserves a little R&R some time, why not use that time so that you can feel good about yourself. You nails are just another part of your body that is important to take care of and maintain.

Tips on how to grow long, healthy nails

First a quick biology lesson: 

Your nails grow from the area under your cuticle called the matrix. The matrix is the living part of the nail. Your cuticle is the layer of skin that protects the matrix so the cuticle is very important for nail health and growth. As new nail cells grow in the matrix, older nail cells are pushed out toward your fingertips and become hard and compacted. Heredity and health determine how fast nails grow but nails typically grow about 0.1 millimeter a day, which means that it takes a fingernail about four to six months to fully regenerate. Healthy nails are smooth, without ridges or grooves. They're uniform in colour and consistency and free of spots or discoloration.

Tips on growing, long and healthy natural nails:

Long nails tip 1: Don't use your nails as tools.
Rather than using your nails use other parts of your hand, or a pen, to perform tasks like dialing the phone. Don't pick, poke or scrape with your nails and especially avoid opening soft drink cans with your nails.

Long nails tip 2: Wear gloves.
Detergents are particularly harsh on your nails and can cause splitting and peeling. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning. You should also wear gloves when gardening to protect your nails from infection and prevent dryness, damage, and loss of natural oils.

Long nails tip 3: Don't bit your nails or pick at your cuticles.

Aside from the obvious reason of biting shortening your nails these habits can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut alongside your nail can allow bacteria or fungi to enter the nail bed and cause an infection. Remember your nails grow slowly so an injured nail retains signs of damage for several months. 

Long nails tip 4: Look after your cuticles.

The cuticle is a barrier that keeps bacteria from the nail matrix, where new cells are generated, so it should not be cut or trimmed. On the other hand you do want to keep cuticles from becoming overgrown, which suffocates nail growth. If your cuticle has grown out on to the nail plate, after sufficiently softening your cuticles in warm water, very gently use a cuticle pusher to push your cuticles back. As well as pushing your cuticles back this will help to remove dead skin and debris that may have accumulated. Hold the cuticle pusher at an angle, and use tiny circular movements, so that you are as gentle and careful as possible and do not damage the cuticle. When you have finished doesn't forget to moisturize your hands.

Long nails tip 5: Look after your nails.

Trim fingernails and clean under the nails regularly. Use manicure scissors or clippers and a nail file to smooth nail edges. Never pull off hangnails - doing so almost always results in ripping living tissue. Clip hangnails off, leaving a slight angle outward. 

Long nails tip 6: Caring for brittle nails.

Trim brittle nails after a bath, or a 15 minute hand soak in bath oil, and then apply a moisturiser. Don't use nail polish remover more than twice a month. Instead, touch up the nail polish. When you do need to use a nail polish remover avoid those that use acetone, which dries out nails. Also consider using a nail strengthener and growth formula. 

Long nails tip 7: The role of diet. 

Unless your diet is deficient in protein and vitamins dietary changes that supposedly strengthen nails won't work. Your nails can however offer telltale signs of dietary problems such as: 

Lack of vitamin A and calcium causing dryness and brittleness. 

Lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C causing hang nails

White bands across the nails caused by protein deficiency.

A lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid causing splitting nails. 

Insufficient intake of vitamin B12 leading to excessive dryness, very rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.

Insufficient zinc causing development of white spots on the nails. 

Red skin around your cuticles can be caused by poor metabolism of essential fatty acids.

If you are concerned that your diet may not be balanced and healthy you should consult a medical or nutritional professional.

Long nails tip 8: Moisturise your nails.

Nails need moisture just like your hands do. Rub lotion into your nails when moisturising your hands. Be sure to apply moisturiser each time you wash your hands

Long nails tip 9: Use coloured nail polish.

Use coloured nail polish while you are growing your nails. If you prefer a softer look, try a sheer shade. Coloured nail polish helps you become more aware of your hands and how to use them in a way that keeps your nail polish undamaged and hence your nails protected. It also makes chips easier to spot so that you can make immediate repairs. 

Long, beautiful natural nails take commitment and special care to grow and maintain. Be patient, the average nail takes 3 to 6 months to grow.

Frequently asked questions:

My nails are weak. What can I do to strengthen them? 

Unfortunately, if you have naturally weak nails then it's probably hereditary and you can't permanently change them. You can, however, do things to make them stronger. Try a nail strengthener and growth formula. Many women are confused about how to use these products, so here are a few tips:

Make sure you apply a thin coat. Because you'll be applying it daily you don't want it to build up too much. If you're at the very beginning stages of growing out your nails only use a strengthener and growth formula on your nail plate and apply it every day. Once your nails start to protrude, and you want to apply nail polish, use the strengthener and growth formula as a base coat and as a top coat. 

Why do I have ridges in my nails?

Ridges or corrugations (referred to as beau's lines) in nails occur when nail growth is uneven, usually because of illness or injury. Gentle buffing can minimize ridges. A Ridge Filler will also help to level the nail surface, smoothing out shallow ridges and other imperfections. 

What causes my nails to turn yellow and how can I get rid of the yellow stains?

Darker coloured nail polish can cause a chemical reaction between the nail polish's coloring agent and the nail plate. This can cause nails to develop a yellowish color. While it is different for every person this reaction can occur in a matter of days or within weeks of wearing the nail colour. To prevent nails from yellowing always use a base coat before applying nail polish. Not only will this prevent staining but it can also extend the life of the nail polish. For already yellow nails soak nails in a solution of 1/2 cup of water and the juice of one lemon for up to 15 minutes, once a week

Why are my nails so flaky around the cuticle beds? What causes this?

Unless you have an allergy to something you are handling it is likely to be dryness which is the cause. It is important to correct this since, as mentioned, cuticles are very important for nail health. You should regularly moisturize your cuticles, and hands. 

My nails can grow, but after a while they begin to peel and stop growing. What can I do to stop this?

Many women want long, well-shaped nails, but the stresses of daily life and work may make them a challenge to grow. Your nails could potentially benefit from additional protection when they reach more vulnerable lengths. A nail strengthener and growth formula could assist. 

What causes thin nails and what can make them stronger?

When your general health is good and you are not handling strong chemicals that might affect the nails, it is likely to be heredity that produces thin nails. Your nails could also potentially benefit from a nail strengthener and growth formula.

HOW TO DO MANICURE AT HOME

Manicure consists of the following steps :-

• Removing the old nail polish
• Trimming of the nails
• soaking hand in warm soapy water
• Softening of the spots in the hand which are rough
• Pushing the cuticle
• Exfoliating the hands
• Moisturizing the hands
• Polishing your nails.
• Based on the above points, I found out that a manicure set should contain the following items
  • Nail polish remover
  • Nail filer
  • Nail clippers
  • Cotton
  • Cuticle oil
  • Base coat (optional)
  • Nail polish
  • Top coat (optional)
  Recently I think I saw a manicure set at Dollar tree. Since I was in a hurry, I did not see it properly but I am definitely going next week to see if I was right.
  The "other " items which you need for manicure are
  • Scrub homemade or ready made
  • Moisturizer
  • Warm water
  • Clean towel
  • Proper Light
  • Good mood
  • How to do it?
    1. Dab nail polish remover in cotton and remove the old nail polish from your nails.
    2. Trim your nails with the length you desire. You can then shape your nails round or square. I must admit that I have never been able to shape my nails square no matter how much I try.
    3. Many people skip this step to save time but I personally find it soothing. Soak your hands in warm water. You can add some of your liquid soap or shampoo in it.
    4. Apply some cuticle oil on the rough spots of your hand. You can use moisturizer or olive oil instead of cuticle oil.Olive oil is great for brittle nails. I usually skip this step.
    5. This step needs to be done properly. Push the cuticle back properly. Some people including me cut their cuticle, however be careful while cutting your cuticle. I would advice that in case you are not confident about cutting your cuticle, do it in a salon.
    6. Scrub your hands with the ready made scrubber or with home made scrubs. I sometimes scrub my hands with oil and sugar or salt or
    7. Dry your hands and apply your moisturizer.
    8. Apply the base coat on your nails. Let it dry and then apply nail polish. Let it dry again. Re apply the coat if needed. I do not use the base coat however I use the top coat. I usually apply a face pack while doing manicure. So by the time I am done with manicure, I have a glowing face and soft and shining hands! Some suggestions for face packs Hot DIY Nail and Manicure Trends

Newspaper Print Nails

This nail trend has been showing up everywhere lately! It's one of my personal favorites. I think it gives a nice little edge to your manicure, and it's a conversation starter because all your friends are gonna grab your hands and want to know what you did and how you did it. Awesome! Bonus: it's pretty easy to do.

Things You'll Need

• Nail polish
• rubbing alcohol or vodka
• small glass
• newspaper strips
• topcoat

• Step By Step Instructions

  Polish nails in any color of your choosing. The newspaper print looks best on lighter colors but any color will work. Let nails dry completely. The remainder of the steps are for one nail at a time.
  1. Pour some rubbing alcohol or vodka into a small shot glass. Dip nail in for about 10 seconds.
  2. Let nail dry a little bit, but not all the way, and then press and hold a newspaper strip directly on your nail. Hold the strip firm for about 30 seconds.
  3. Give a few seconds for the print to dry a little on the nail, and then apply a topcoat to seal it in. If you put the topcoat on right away you risk smudging the print.
  4. If you have a little print on your fingers, just take some nail polish remover and wipe it up.

  Some Helpful Tips

  • Rip newspaper strips before beginning manicure.
  • Try not to move the newspaper strip around too much on the nail or you will have smudges.
  • If it's not perfect that's okay! Smudges or crooked print can make it appear a little edgier.

  • Ombre Nails

    Ombre. A french term meaning "shaded"

    Ombre is THE trend in 2012 for both hair and nails. Celebrities everywhere are rocking this trend and I am here to give you easy, step-by-step instructions on how to achieve this look for yourself on your nails! Let's get started.

    Things You'll Need

    

    Most of these items are probably already somewhere in your house! How easy is that?

    • 2 nail polish colors of your choosing
    • paper plate or aluminum foil
    • toothpick
    • sponge (could be a makeup sponge or kitchen sponge.)
    • top coat
    • q-tip
    • nail polish remover

    Let's Do It!

    1. Paint your nails the lighter color. Let them dry completely.
    2. Pour a generous amount of both colors right next to each other on the paper plate or aluminum foil. Have them just about touching at the edges.
    3. Use a toothpick to swirl the colors together where they meet.
       1. Rip a piece off the sponge. Dab the sponge into the mixed nail color, and then dab it onto your nails. Move slightly, up and down your nail. (You can sponge a few times, just make sure that the polish is dry between coats.)
       2. Once the polish is dry, use a topcoat to smooth it out.
       3. Clean up around the edges with a q-tip and nail polish remover.

       Helpful Tips!

       
       • For a larger graduation in color mix a bigger section of polish together with the toothpick.
       • For a shorter graduation in color mix a smaller section of the polish together with the toothpick.
       • You don't have to use two colors that are in the same color group. Feel free to mix and match however you please!
       • You may need 2 or 3 coats of topcoat to smooth it out, since the sponging can make your nails have a little texture.

         Sprinkle Nails

         Quirky. Sweet. Popular. Colorful.

         All words that can describe this amazing nail trend - Sprinkle Nails! Yes, that's right. Real sprinkles - on your nails. How cool is that? Let me show you how to achieve this super-cute look easily at home!

         Things You'll Need

         • Nail polish of your choice

         • Sprinkles in a bowl
         • Manicure stick
         • Topcoat

         Step-By-Step Instructions

         For these sprinkle nails we are going to do one nail at a time from start to finish.

         1. Paint about 3 coats of nail polish on your nail. You want it to be thick since it helps to catch the sprinkles.
         2. Wait about 15 seconds until the nail is tacky.
         3. Dip your finger into the bowl of sprinkles for a few seconds to let the sprinkles stick.
         4. Use the manicure stick to push the sprinkles closer together.
         5. As the polish gets more dry you can better shape the sprinkles - just be gentle.
         6. Apply a layer of topcoat to keep the sprinkles on and in place. Do not brush on the topcoat as this can smear the sprinkle colors. Instead, sort of blob the topcoat on.