Nails are made up of a tough protein called keratin and like the hair and teeth, they are appendage of the skin. Nails act a protective shield to the sensitive tips of the fingers and toes. The live part of the nail is the matrix that is beneath the fold of the nail.


The cells that grow from the matrix are compressed to form the hard nail.  Just like the skin, they need care or they may peel, break or get infected. The infections may occur due to wearing dirty socks, tight foot wear, or walking in an unclean environment.

Nail care. Healthy nails are pink in hue, shiny and smooth, and are hard enough to serve the purpose. If there is a change in the appearance of the nails, it may indicate deficiencies in the body and the nails may become too soft or brittle, and may keep chipping off very often. To maintain good nail health it is important to consume protein and calcium rich foods. For hand nail care it is essential to clip the nails regularly to prevent any breakage or chipping. A manicure is essential to groom and trim the nails. Healthy nails reveal our health pattern and besides, everyone appreciates beautiful nails, especially if you’re a woman. To keep your hand nails smooth, apply olive oil on your fingers and dip them it warm water for 10-15 minutes to give your nails a glossy sheen. Keep them clean to prevent any infection, and if you visit a salon, be sure it is hygienic or bacterial infections may set in. You can dip your fingers in a cup of water mixed with lemon juice to remove any stains.

If you use nail color, use good quality ones and give time for the nails to breathe every now and then, or the nails may get an ugly yellowish shade. Avoid acetone based nail polish removers as they dry the nails and give it an unhealthy texture. When you wash your hands or take a bath, remember to apply a lotion or a little olive oil to retain the moisture and to keep your nails shiny. For brittle nails, it is desirable to wear nail polish.

Hard toe nails can be difficult to clip and trim. You may opt for a pedicure at a salon or soak your feet in a tub with 2-5 teaspoons of baking soda mixed with warm water. This will soften the toe nails and they will be easier to clip. Be sure to wear clean socks and footwear that is comfortable, as this will ensure that your feet are dry and infection free.