Tips for healthy nails

To keep your nails healthy, it is necessary to keep them hydrated. Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly into your cuticle and the skin surrounding the nails every evening before you go to bed or whenever your nails feel dry.

Always keep two pairs of shoes and switch between them. This will help prevent fungal infections.

Wear 100 percent cotton socks as they are best for absorbing dampness and prevents fungal infection.

File your nails correctly. Avoid filing in a back-and-forth motion - only go in one direction. And never file just after a shower or bath as wet nails break more easily.

If your nails are too brittle and dry, you should increase the consumption of food that items rich in vitamin A (such as apricots, broccoli, carrot and cheese) and calcium (such as milk, yoghurt, cheese and almonds). Consume foods containing calcium and zinc. Calcium effectively promotes nail growth.

Every night before going to bed, wash your hands thoroughly, wipe them dry with a towel and apply a hand moisturizer.

Drink plenty of water and fresh fruit juices. Carrot juice is rich in calcium and phosphorus that helps strengthen your nails.

Consume less sugar and less alcohol as poor nails could be outcome of iron deficiency or liver problems, which can be caused by a high intake of alcohol.

Eat fewer saturated fats. Ensure that you consume enough protein. Try to increase your intake of Vitamins A, B, C, D and E.

Trim nails regularly, as needed. Use an emery board or nail file to smooth rough edges after trimming and when a nail breaks.

Dry your hands for at least two minutes after washing the dishes, taking a bath/shower etc. You should also dry your toes thoroughly after swimming or showering. Leaving them damp raises the risk of fungal infection.

Trim your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. This is particularly important if you have diabetes.

Never use an acetone-based or formaldehyde-based nail polish remover. Try to use or apply remover that has acetate in it.