Nail fungus may grow in the nail bed on both the fingernails and the toenails. Fungus grows in dark, moist areas and may grow under the nails after you use public showers and swimming pools, says the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, toenail fungus may be caused by wearing synthetic socks or wearing the same pair of shoes over and over. In some cases, you can reduce fungus naturally with home remedies.
Vinegar
Soaking the nails in vinegar may be effective in reducing some cases of toenail or fingernail fungus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although it may not be effective in all cases, the home remedy is inexpensive and may be worth a try. Soak your feet or hands for 15 to 20 minutes in a solution of one part vinegar and two parts warm water once a day. If the vinegar causes skin irritation, add more water to the solution or reduce soaking to three or four times a week.
Trim Nails
Trim nails short; the lifting of a long nail from its bed can give fungus access to the nail bed. To keep fungus from spreading, keep nails trimmed as close to the nail bed as possible. Do not cut your cuticles, says podiatrist James Graham, D.P.M. Removing the cuticles can create an easy entrance for fungus, which can rapidly spread to the rest of the nail. Wash your hands and the nail scissors or clippers thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water after trimming your nails to keep the fungus from spreading.
Nail Brush
Use a nail brush to exfoliate the skin around the nails, recommends Richard L. Dobson, M.D., professor of dermatology at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Fungus attaches itself to dead skin cells and will spread rapidly to the nails. Scrub away dead skin cells using antibacterial soap and water each day; then rinse with cool water. Wash the scrub brush after using it to prevent fungus from growing on the brush.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/116957-natural-rid-nail-fungus
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Nailcare for Men
Men's nails generally grow faster than women's nails and tend to be stronger. However, their increased surface area makes them prone to trauma from bumps and bangs. Wider nails often need more coats of nail polish and a longer time to dry as well as making it harder to keep the polish spread smoothly on the nail surface.
Should you go the route of nail salons, you may discover that they charge more for men. A non-gothic friend of mine who goes for manicure on a regular basis tells me he can often talk them down to the same price as women or find places that charge the same price for both genders. However, chances are the more complicated your needs the more likely they will charge more. It is always a good idea to find a salon you feel comfortable with and become a repeat customer. Keep in mind that you do not need to go to a nail salon if you follow my suggested weekly maintenance. If you are unsure of how to begin, you may want to go once to see how they prepare for the nail care, or do what I did and go with a friend who is getting a manicure and just watch.
Apart from a 20 minute weekly self-manicure, there is not much else needed apart from an almost daily application of clear polish to keep the nail protected. You may also want to use hand lotion once a day to help keep the cuticles soft and the nails flexible… of course most men use some sort of lotion or lubricant on a somewhat regular basis so that may not be a problem... at least for one hand.
As the subtitle "Isn't he Dainty" suggests, you need to relearn how to use your hands and fingers. The section entitled Nail Care Survival Guide covers this topic well, but I'll add that men tend to have more of a problem with long nails than women in this area because they are starting the practice so much later in life. Women have the advantage of starting younger and also learning from the experiences of their peers growing up. So be patient with yourself and accept your fate that you will break a few nails in the beginning. Stop whining about it and be a man!
There are many brands out that have released polish specifically for men that come in a variety of colors. Apart from the nice non-gloss clear polish that is great for those who like the natural look, there is no reason to bother with these brands unless you like a particular shade they carry. These gender-specific polishes were intended for mundane males who are concerned about feeling effeminate while purchasing nail polish. Goths don't tend to be concerned about such gender issues.
Finally, be realistic. If you are active in sports or other activities that are rough on the hands, long nails are probably not for you. This goes for women too, but they tend to be more aware of the limitations one's lifestyle has on nail length.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_for_men.htm
Should you go the route of nail salons, you may discover that they charge more for men. A non-gothic friend of mine who goes for manicure on a regular basis tells me he can often talk them down to the same price as women or find places that charge the same price for both genders. However, chances are the more complicated your needs the more likely they will charge more. It is always a good idea to find a salon you feel comfortable with and become a repeat customer. Keep in mind that you do not need to go to a nail salon if you follow my suggested weekly maintenance. If you are unsure of how to begin, you may want to go once to see how they prepare for the nail care, or do what I did and go with a friend who is getting a manicure and just watch.
Apart from a 20 minute weekly self-manicure, there is not much else needed apart from an almost daily application of clear polish to keep the nail protected. You may also want to use hand lotion once a day to help keep the cuticles soft and the nails flexible… of course most men use some sort of lotion or lubricant on a somewhat regular basis so that may not be a problem... at least for one hand.
As the subtitle "Isn't he Dainty" suggests, you need to relearn how to use your hands and fingers. The section entitled Nail Care Survival Guide covers this topic well, but I'll add that men tend to have more of a problem with long nails than women in this area because they are starting the practice so much later in life. Women have the advantage of starting younger and also learning from the experiences of their peers growing up. So be patient with yourself and accept your fate that you will break a few nails in the beginning. Stop whining about it and be a man!
There are many brands out that have released polish specifically for men that come in a variety of colors. Apart from the nice non-gloss clear polish that is great for those who like the natural look, there is no reason to bother with these brands unless you like a particular shade they carry. These gender-specific polishes were intended for mundane males who are concerned about feeling effeminate while purchasing nail polish. Goths don't tend to be concerned about such gender issues.
Finally, be realistic. If you are active in sports or other activities that are rough on the hands, long nails are probably not for you. This goes for women too, but they tend to be more aware of the limitations one's lifestyle has on nail length.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_for_men.htm
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Types of Artificial Nails
Sculptured Nails
In this process, acrylic, gel or fiberglass is applied to your nails, and the material is lengthened and sculpted over metal or foil. Or, a plastic nail tip can be applied with glue, and then gel, fiberglass, silk or acrylic can be laid over the entire nail. As the natural nail grows out, your manicurist will fill in the base and file down the artificial tip. Eventually, you will end up with just the overlay on your natural nail
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are the strongest and last the longest of all the nail overlays. But, if it's not done well, these nails can look thick and very artificial. Find a manicurist who is an expert at applying acrylic nails, and you can get a very thin, natural-looking nail. They usually need to be filled in every two to three weeks as your nails grow, but depending on how hard you are on your nails, you may need to see the manicurist sooner to avoid nail loosening, which can lead to mildew if water gets trapped underneath. And, if a professional removes them properly, the acrylic nails should cause little weakening to the nail plate. One factor that might make you choose acrylic: It is the most commonly-used artificial nail; if you travel a great deal, it will be easier for you to find a place to repair or fill in your manicure.
Silk, Linen and Fiber Wraps
Wraps are pieces of silk, linen or fiberglass that have been cut to the desired shape and glued to the nail plate. This adds strength, and sometimes length, to the nail. Though done on natural nails, wraps are most commonly used to strengthen tips. Silk is the most natural-looking wrap and provides a lot of flexibility, but it is often too delicate for those with an active lifestyle. Linen is stronger, but it is not transparent and appears quite thick. Fiberglass is the best of both worlds, since it provides the natural look of silk and the strength of linen.
Gel Nails
Once, these nails were made of dental porcelain gel-powder. Now, manicurists use a Mylar form to sculpt your nail, and then cure, or set, it under an ultraviolet light. Because of this process, gel nails may need to be filled in less often than acrylic nails, though fill-ins are still necessary, and a professional must remove the tips.
http://www.ivillage.com/types-artificial-nails/5-a-147441
In this process, acrylic, gel or fiberglass is applied to your nails, and the material is lengthened and sculpted over metal or foil. Or, a plastic nail tip can be applied with glue, and then gel, fiberglass, silk or acrylic can be laid over the entire nail. As the natural nail grows out, your manicurist will fill in the base and file down the artificial tip. Eventually, you will end up with just the overlay on your natural nail
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are the strongest and last the longest of all the nail overlays. But, if it's not done well, these nails can look thick and very artificial. Find a manicurist who is an expert at applying acrylic nails, and you can get a very thin, natural-looking nail. They usually need to be filled in every two to three weeks as your nails grow, but depending on how hard you are on your nails, you may need to see the manicurist sooner to avoid nail loosening, which can lead to mildew if water gets trapped underneath. And, if a professional removes them properly, the acrylic nails should cause little weakening to the nail plate. One factor that might make you choose acrylic: It is the most commonly-used artificial nail; if you travel a great deal, it will be easier for you to find a place to repair or fill in your manicure.
Silk, Linen and Fiber Wraps
Wraps are pieces of silk, linen or fiberglass that have been cut to the desired shape and glued to the nail plate. This adds strength, and sometimes length, to the nail. Though done on natural nails, wraps are most commonly used to strengthen tips. Silk is the most natural-looking wrap and provides a lot of flexibility, but it is often too delicate for those with an active lifestyle. Linen is stronger, but it is not transparent and appears quite thick. Fiberglass is the best of both worlds, since it provides the natural look of silk and the strength of linen.
Gel Nails
Once, these nails were made of dental porcelain gel-powder. Now, manicurists use a Mylar form to sculpt your nail, and then cure, or set, it under an ultraviolet light. Because of this process, gel nails may need to be filled in less often than acrylic nails, though fill-ins are still necessary, and a professional must remove the tips.
http://www.ivillage.com/types-artificial-nails/5-a-147441
Monday, June 7, 2010
Nail Care Commandments
Despite reasonable efforts, we have been unable to attribute the following. We are however grateful to the author, and thankfully acknowledge their rights to the following piece.
Thou shalt not get dehydrated.
Drink plenty of water and protect the nails from fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Use a good nail conditioner and sealing topcoat to finish the job.
Thou shalt not let your skin dry out.
Use a good hand lotion to moisturise hands and cuticle area. The right fragrance can make all the difference.
Thou shalt eat right.
Proper diet is as important to nail care as it is to the rest of the body. Calcium or iron deficiencies may cause irregular nail growth and tell-tale white spots.
Thou shalt improve blood flow.
Blood flow around the nail bed brings the nutrients that allow healthy nails to grow. Massaging in hand lotion is an excellent way to stimulate blood flow into the nail bed.
Thou shalt not forget thy gloves.
Wear gloves when doing cleaning tasks either in the house or garden. Extra moisture tip: put a tiny bit of sweet almond oil on the hands before putting them in the gloves.
Thou shalt not use acetone.
Using harsh chemicals like nail varnish remover more than once a week can be very damaging to nails and surrounding skin. Use acetone-free remover.
Thou shalt not use fingernails as tools.
Do not use fingernails as replacement Swiss army knives. Use proper tools for the job.
Thou shalt not bite thy nails.
Nail biting is a difficult habit to break. Nail grooming can be an effective way to relieve the temptation to bite. Nail polish serves as a visual cue to keep from biting.
Thou shalt keep thy hands healthy.
Fingernails serve as a barrier to infection. Untended hands quickly show wear and tear.
Thou shalt keep hands clean at all times.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_commandments.htm
Thou shalt not get dehydrated.
Drink plenty of water and protect the nails from fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Use a good nail conditioner and sealing topcoat to finish the job.
Thou shalt not let your skin dry out.
Use a good hand lotion to moisturise hands and cuticle area. The right fragrance can make all the difference.
Thou shalt eat right.
Proper diet is as important to nail care as it is to the rest of the body. Calcium or iron deficiencies may cause irregular nail growth and tell-tale white spots.
Thou shalt improve blood flow.
Blood flow around the nail bed brings the nutrients that allow healthy nails to grow. Massaging in hand lotion is an excellent way to stimulate blood flow into the nail bed.
Thou shalt not forget thy gloves.
Wear gloves when doing cleaning tasks either in the house or garden. Extra moisture tip: put a tiny bit of sweet almond oil on the hands before putting them in the gloves.
Thou shalt not use acetone.
Using harsh chemicals like nail varnish remover more than once a week can be very damaging to nails and surrounding skin. Use acetone-free remover.
Thou shalt not use fingernails as tools.
Do not use fingernails as replacement Swiss army knives. Use proper tools for the job.
Thou shalt not bite thy nails.
Nail biting is a difficult habit to break. Nail grooming can be an effective way to relieve the temptation to bite. Nail polish serves as a visual cue to keep from biting.
Thou shalt keep thy hands healthy.
Fingernails serve as a barrier to infection. Untended hands quickly show wear and tear.
Thou shalt keep hands clean at all times.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_commandments.htm
Splitting Nails Solution
Frustrated by fragile fingernails? Try this.
Many women are plagued by fingernails that split and crack. What's causing this? Like body shape, skin tone, and hair texture, our nails' ability to grow is largely hereditary -- so if your mom had weak nails, you're likely to have them, too. That said, there are things you can do to avoid much of the splitting:
Protect your nails from water. Keep your hands out of H2O, since water can actually dry out nails, causing them to split. Be sure to wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.
Apply hand cream religiously. Look for a rich formula, which will seal moisture into nails, making them stronger and more flexible. And be sure to slather on cream every time you wash your hands. Dermatologists often recommend Elon Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner.
Limit use of nail polish remover. It contains alcohol and other chemicals which make nails brittle. Use remover no more than once a week.
Buff instead of polish. Nail polish can have a drying effect on weak nails. To get a shiny, polished effect, try a buffer. The friction it creates actually stimulates nail growth.
Keep nail length manageable. Go for no more than a quarter-inch beyond the tip of your finger, and keep nails filed into resilient soft ovals.
If you try the above with no success, consult a dermatologist.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/solution_for_splittingnails.htm
Many women are plagued by fingernails that split and crack. What's causing this? Like body shape, skin tone, and hair texture, our nails' ability to grow is largely hereditary -- so if your mom had weak nails, you're likely to have them, too. That said, there are things you can do to avoid much of the splitting:
Protect your nails from water. Keep your hands out of H2O, since water can actually dry out nails, causing them to split. Be sure to wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.
Apply hand cream religiously. Look for a rich formula, which will seal moisture into nails, making them stronger and more flexible. And be sure to slather on cream every time you wash your hands. Dermatologists often recommend Elon Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner.
Limit use of nail polish remover. It contains alcohol and other chemicals which make nails brittle. Use remover no more than once a week.
Buff instead of polish. Nail polish can have a drying effect on weak nails. To get a shiny, polished effect, try a buffer. The friction it creates actually stimulates nail growth.
Keep nail length manageable. Go for no more than a quarter-inch beyond the tip of your finger, and keep nails filed into resilient soft ovals.
If you try the above with no success, consult a dermatologist.
http://www.nailcareguide.com/solution_for_splittingnails.htm
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Why does nail polish turn nails yellow?
It’s true, nail polish can turn your nails yellow. Why? There are a couple of reasons:
Color reaction
Some of the darker colored polishes can stain nails due to a chemical reaction between the colorant and the nail plate. This reaction is hard to predict because it doesn’t happen for everybody for every dark color. It can also take a few days to a few weeks to occur.
Formaldehyde
It’s also possible that formaldehyde (one of the ingredients in many nail polishes) is causing the problem. This chemical can react with the keratin protein in your nails and make it brittle and yellow.
Medical issues
Finally, if your nails are really yellowed and disfigured, you may have a nail infection or a more serious medical condition known as Yellow Nail Syndrome.
So what can you do about it? Read on!
Tips for non-yellowing nails:
*Don’t try to scrape off the stained area because it will damage and weaken the nail.
*Stay away from dark colors (which will greatly reduce your fashion options)
*Wear a base coat to protect your nails from staining (this makes sense to us)
*Look for nail polishes that don’t have formaldehyde on the ingredient list. (There’s no guarantee that this will work but hey, it beats this next tip we found from one of the nail polish companies from which is…
*Wear gloves (now there’s a practical idea!)
*Stop wearing polish and wait for your nails to grow out. (Also not too practical, this could take 4 to 6 months.)
*Soak your nails in 1/2 cup of water and juice of one lemon for up to 15 minutes, once a week, according to Sally Hanson. (We’re skeptical if this works but you can always add some sugar and just drink it as lemonade.)
*Buy only yellow shades of polish so you can’t tell if your nails are stained or not. (Sorry, just kidding on that one.)
The Beauty Brains bottom Line:
Nail polish can stain your nails yellow but by choosing the right shades, using a protective base coat, and drinking a lot of lemonade while wearing gloves, you should be able to control the problem.
http://thebeautybrains.com/2010/04/03/why-does-nail-polish-turn-my-nails-yellow/
Weak Fingernails
Overview
Finger nails are made up of layers of keratin, a type of protein. New cells grow beneath the cuticle, causing old cells to harden and compact. The old cells then grow out toward the fingertips. But as MotherNature.com says, most people do not have the perfect fingernails that we see in magazines. In fact, many people have weak, easily torn fingernails caused by the daily rigors of life. Some people are simply born with weak fingernails.
Healthy Fingernails
According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy fingernails are ridge-free and smooth. They are all the same color and shape. They have no spots or discolorations and may have vertical ridges. The tips, if long enough, should be a whitish color due to the lack of pigmentation found there. Some nail injuries can cause white spots to form, but these spots typically disappear as the nail grows out.
Symptoms of Weak Nails
Symptoms of weak fingernails include thinness and easily broken nails. In addition, they may peel and grow slowly. Weak nails are more prone to cracking or splitting. In severe cases, they can even become painfully detached from the nail bed itself.
Causes
MotherNature.com states that weak nails can mean there are problems elsewhere in the body. Psoriasis, a condition of the skin that can lead to itching, can cause weak nails. Hyperthyrodism, which is an overactive thyroid gland, can also cause weakness. Anemia may also contribute to weak nails. In addition, it can signal a calcium deficiency. However, most fingernail weakness is caused by everyday injury, nail biting or lack of care.
Care
MayoClinic.com suggests keeping your weak nails dry and clean. In addition, trim them often to minimize tearing. Moisturize your nails regularly. When putting lotion on your hands, make sure the lotion is rubbed into the fingernail as well. Don't pick at your nails or bite them. Not only does this cause damage, it can invite fungus into any cuts that the picking or biting may have caused. Use nail polish and hardeners to help strengthen nails.
Remedies
Eating eggs is an easy way to strengthen nails. Wellsphere.com suggests the avoidance of refined flour and sugar, which block absorption of protein. In addition, Vitamin C, nuts and tuna fish are good additions to the diet to encourage stronger nails. Your nails should be protected from cold weather. Gloves should be worn to prevent nails from cracking or splitting. A biotin supplement can also be taken to increase nail thickness.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/77353-weak-fingernails/
Finger nails are made up of layers of keratin, a type of protein. New cells grow beneath the cuticle, causing old cells to harden and compact. The old cells then grow out toward the fingertips. But as MotherNature.com says, most people do not have the perfect fingernails that we see in magazines. In fact, many people have weak, easily torn fingernails caused by the daily rigors of life. Some people are simply born with weak fingernails.
Healthy Fingernails
According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy fingernails are ridge-free and smooth. They are all the same color and shape. They have no spots or discolorations and may have vertical ridges. The tips, if long enough, should be a whitish color due to the lack of pigmentation found there. Some nail injuries can cause white spots to form, but these spots typically disappear as the nail grows out.
Symptoms of Weak Nails
Symptoms of weak fingernails include thinness and easily broken nails. In addition, they may peel and grow slowly. Weak nails are more prone to cracking or splitting. In severe cases, they can even become painfully detached from the nail bed itself.
Causes
MotherNature.com states that weak nails can mean there are problems elsewhere in the body. Psoriasis, a condition of the skin that can lead to itching, can cause weak nails. Hyperthyrodism, which is an overactive thyroid gland, can also cause weakness. Anemia may also contribute to weak nails. In addition, it can signal a calcium deficiency. However, most fingernail weakness is caused by everyday injury, nail biting or lack of care.
Care
MayoClinic.com suggests keeping your weak nails dry and clean. In addition, trim them often to minimize tearing. Moisturize your nails regularly. When putting lotion on your hands, make sure the lotion is rubbed into the fingernail as well. Don't pick at your nails or bite them. Not only does this cause damage, it can invite fungus into any cuts that the picking or biting may have caused. Use nail polish and hardeners to help strengthen nails.
Remedies
Eating eggs is an easy way to strengthen nails. Wellsphere.com suggests the avoidance of refined flour and sugar, which block absorption of protein. In addition, Vitamin C, nuts and tuna fish are good additions to the diet to encourage stronger nails. Your nails should be protected from cold weather. Gloves should be worn to prevent nails from cracking or splitting. A biotin supplement can also be taken to increase nail thickness.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/77353-weak-fingernails/
Monday, March 8, 2010
Pick Your Nail Shape
Sharp-corner Square
Totally trendy now. Trends change, but these nails always looks good. This shape looks great with short nails and longer ones too.
Long & Oval
These nails look glamorous, but break easily and make typing more difficult.
Rounded & Short
Good for the active gal who hates to fuss. A low-maintenance manicure.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails
Totally trendy now. Trends change, but these nails always looks good. This shape looks great with short nails and longer ones too.
Long & Oval
These nails look glamorous, but break easily and make typing more difficult.
Rounded & Short
Good for the active gal who hates to fuss. A low-maintenance manicure.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails
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