Nails sometimes do not get the same level of attention that is given to the hair and skin. Obviously, a trip to the manicurist is one way of giving them some pampering, however there are some products that you can use yourself to keep the nails looking good. See also the section 'Nail-care tips'.
Nail creams or oilsThese are specially formulated products that should be massaged into the nails and cuticles, ideally at the end of each day. They contain a wide variety of ingredients that are designed to nourish the nails and encourage healthy new growth. They are good for restoring the appearance of dry, brittle and splitting nails. Many contain natural ingredients such as Vitamin E, calcium pantothenate (vitamin B5) and the herb comfrey. The herb comfrey is well known for its ability to speed the healing process by accelerating cell division. Some people also find that massaging the nails regularly with jojoba or almond oil is very effective and can help speed up the growth of nail tissue. Olive oil is a cheap altenative.
Cuticle gels and creamsThese are designed to soften the cuticles, so that they can be gently pushed back towards the nail bed with a hoof stick or cotton wool bud to improve their appearance. This is much better than cutting them with scissors, which can lead to fungal infections.
Nail varnishNail varnish or polish does not really improve the nail condition, however it can help strenthen brittle nails, especially when painted on the underside of longer nails. Obviously most women use these products to improve the appearance of the nails and colour co-ordinate them with whatever they are wearing. A general rule for colouring is not to apply bright colours to short finger nails, as it does not look attractive.
Nail varnish removersObviously the nail polish needs to be taken off the nails especially when it starts to to chip or when a different colour is to be used. These contain solvents which dissolve the nail polish, so that it can easily be wiped off with cotton wool or a clean tissue. The important thing is to choose products that are free or low in acetone as they strip the nails, cuticles and surrounding skin of moisture. Choose varieties that contain moisturising conditioners.
Nail strengthenersThese products are painted onto the nails and once dry harden to form a tough protective layer. They are good to use on very long nails and ones that break easily due to brittleness.
Anti-nail biting productsIf you are the type of person that is always biting your nails, then eventually this can make them brittle, in addition to looking unattractive. Painting on a special product designed to stop you biting them is a useful solution. These contain ingredients that taste very bitter or sour and repel you from carrying on with your bad habit. A traditional treatment is to paint the nails daily with tincture of myrrh.