Nails 101: Nail Care and Nail Care Products
Join us on a journey of self-care and appreciation, as we delve into the art and science of nail care – discovering the secrets to healthier, stronger, and oh-so-stunning nails that are as captivating as you are. Let's embark on this nurturing quest together, where beauty meets mindfulness.
Here are some easy ways to keep your nails healthy and beautiful for longer. And if you want to make sure you have all the tools you’ll need, make sure to check out our Mitty Nail Care Kits.
Cuticles are Key to Good Nail Care
If you learn one thing from this guide, it should be this: moisturise your cuticles!
Your cuticles are the thin layer of skin that protects the base of your nails. They can get dry and cracked, which can lead to infections and hangnails. To prevent this, you should apply a cuticle oil or cream to your cuticles every day, especially after washing your hands or using sanitiser. You can use any oil you have at home, like olive, rosehip, or almond oil. Just massage a few drops into your cuticles and let them absorb.
Or you can find unique products at Mitty. Why not try our Marshmallow Cuticle Juice to keep your cuticles in great condition!
Biting Your Nails is Bad Nail Care
We all know that biting your nails is a bad habit. And if you’re a biter, you probably have a childhood’s worth of memories of rapped knuckles.
But here’s the thing… there’s a reason this habit is so loathed.
Biting or picking at your nails can cause real damage to your nails. If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself dealing with cracked, peeling, or bloody nails.
And that’s not the worst of it. It can also introduce bacteria into your nail bed, which can cause infections or fungus. If you’re having trouble kicking this habit, try using a bitter-tasting nail polish or BIAB (builder gel). You can also keep your nails short and neat, so you won't be tempted to bite or pick at them.
Nail Removal Doesn't Have to be Hard
Removing the products that you've applied to your nails is one of the most important aspects of nail care. This is the moment when damage can be done to the nail and cuticle. But that doesn't mean it has to be difficult.
But the key is making sure you use the right products. You'll typically need a hand file, cotton swabs, acetone, a nail buffer, and cuticle oil to get the job done right. If you want to learn more, read our guides on removing nails at home, removing nail extensions, and removing builder gel.
Gloves are Must-Have Nail Care Products
When you’re assembling your home nail care kit, don’t skip a good pair of gloves. Why? Because gloves are among the most important nail care tools.
Think about it. Whenever you're cleaning around the house, you run the risk of putting your nails in contact with harsh chemicals in cleaning solutions, bleach, and more. And all those abrasive chemicals can break down the bonds between your nail enhancement and your natural nail, causing lifting.
For that matter, even water can have an adverse effect on nail retention. So if you’re washing dishes or cleaning the bathroom, do yourself and your nails a favour. Put on a good pair of gloves!
Nails Aren't Tools!
Well, okay, some nails are tools. But not the ones on your fingers!
And you shouldn’t use them as tools. Sure, it’s convenient to use your nails to open something or pick and scratch at a sticker. But if you do, you’ll cause cracking, chipping, and lifting.
You can also injure your skin or cuticles, which can even lead to bleeding, inflammation, or scarring.
Don’t use your nails like they’re scissors. Always look for the appropriate tool to get the job done.
You NEED a Nail Care Kit
“Why do I need a whole nail care kit?” you might be asking yourself. Well, frankly, it’s because clippers just won’t cut it.
And we mean that literally.
Never use your nail clippers to cut nail enhancements. If you’re in between appointments or your nails are just too long, use a nail file to shorten and shape.
Nail clippers are meant for clipping natural nails only. Using them on gel polish or builder gel is a recipe for disaster. The force of using a nail clipper on nail treatments and enhancements can split your nail and cause lifting. That’s not just bad for your nail art, it’s bad for your nails as well!
What Nail Care Products Should You Have?
Hey, we get it! Figuring out which nail care products are must-haves can be hard. There are so many hand files, cuticle oils, scrapers, and pushers that it can feel impossible to find your way. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to the most important nail care products that you need to keep your nails looking and feeling wonderful.
- Gel polish scraper and cuticle pusher: A good gel polish scraper and cuticle pusher are must-haves for removing product from your nails. Use these tools to gently remove nail products previously applied and to clean the nail plate from gel polish or nail polish after soaking products off.
- Cuticle oil: As we mentioned before, the health of your cuticles is vital for keeping your nails healthy and comfortable. Use cuticle oil to keep these sensitive areas moisturised and supple.
- Soakies and removal tools: If you know anything about nail art, you know that it can be tough to remove. But that doesn’t mean you should be tough on your nails. The right tools let you remove your product with gentle buffing, filing, and soaking.
- Cotton pads and acetone: More must-haves for nail removal, cotton pads and acetone help you gently remove the polish from your nails. Check out our Mitty Nail Removal Kit for everything you need to return your nails to their natural state.
Want to keep your nails in tip-top condition? Mitty has all the products you need. Browse our online shop to find exactly what you need.
Leave a comment