Do you follow these manicure-pedicure dos and don’ts?

Having beautiful nails is all about caring for them correctly. Here are some dos and dont's.

By: Editorial Team | | Published: January 8, 2014 12:05 pm

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Love the perfectly manicured and pedicured look? It not only looks good but these treatments also help maintain your nails and the area surrounding them. According to dermatologists, having beautiful nails is all about caring for them correctly. But even then, you need to be careful about a few things. A salon mani-pedi does not always ensure good nails. Keep these pointers in mind to have good nail experience. Below, we share top manicure and pedicure dos and don’ts: Also Read - Brittle nails to peeling nails: What your body is trying to tell you? Don't ignore these signs

Do:

Always moisturise your hands and nails, especially after removing nail polish.
Exfoliate hands at least once every week. Dead skin cells tend to accumulate between your fingers.
While most nail salons follow strict cleanliness and disinfection guidelines, check if your nail technician has the necessary experience and/or license.
Check whether the station is clean, if the nail technician washes her hands between clients, and if there are dirty tools lying around. (Read: Manicures and pedicures what your beautician won’t tell you)
If you get frequent manicures and pedicures, consider purchasing your own tools to be used at the salon.
Check that the pedicure foot-baths and filters are thoroughly disinfected before you use them. If they are improperly cleaned, they can harbour bacteria and fungus.
When opting for a bright red or orange polish, one can prevent discoloration by applying an extra layer of base coat. To promote healthy growth, apply a light layer of cuticle oil around your cuticles and on the sides of your nails before you polish.
Apply polish in not more than 3 to 5 strokes. Thick coats take longer to dry. (Read: Five tips to get a perfect manicure at home)

Don’t:

Cut or forcefully push back your cuticles as doing so could lead to an infection. If you must push them back, only do so gently after a shower or bath. Soaking the cuticle is necessary if you plan to remove a bit of excess cuticle. Immerse your nails in plain warm water for no more than three minutes.
Leave polish on for more than 2 weeks. This will lead to nail discolouration and damage. If you are applying a dark colour, protect your nails with a base coat.
Hesitate to ask how nail technicians clean their tools.
Shave your lower leg for 24 hours before the pedicure. (Read: Pedicure basics to keep your feet happy!)
Use blades to get rid of dead skin on the feet. Invest in a callus stone.
Nick yourself while shaving. It could put you at risk for an infection. Keep anti-bacterial solutions handy.
Soak nails in gelatin. There is no scientific evidence that immersing nails in gelatin makes them stronger. Polishes that contain strengthening ingredients increase nail stiffness, which may make nails break more frequently. Biotin (Vitamin B complex), on the other hand, is known to enhance healthy and natural nail growth. (Read: Nude, glossy nails in vogue)
Wear artificial nails to cover up nail problems. It might make them worse. If you wear artificial nails, know what products are used as the substances can cause an allergic reaction in some people.