Nail Care: the Number One Mistake to Avoid According to a Dermatologist

As the saying goes, beauty is pain, but when it comes to manicure treatments, this should not be the case. The pursuit of perfect nails has led many of us down a path filled with common mistakes that can seriously harm our nails’ health and aesthetic. According to renowned TikTok dermatologist Dr. Abel, there are several errors we should avoid at all costs when caring for our nails. This article uncovers some of those pitfalls and provides expert advice on maintaining pristine and healthy nails.

The hidden dangers of trendy manicures

The allure of long-wearing polishes

Modern trends such as semi-permanent polishes and artificial nails have gained popularity due to their longevity and glossy finishes. However, according to nail artists, keeping these types of polish or faux nails on for more than three weeks can lead to complications such as onycholysis (nail detachment) and nail breakage.

Dangers lurking in the tools

Another common mistake is the use of aggressive metal tools during manicure procedures. These can cause damage leading to brittle, split, or ridged nails over time.

With these hidden threats in mind, it becomes clear that being trendy doesn’t always mean being safe for your nail health. As we navigate through beauty trends, let us now delve into the importance of nail preparation before applying any form of polish.

The importance of nail preparation before polish application

Do not overlook nail prep work

Nail preparation is an essential step yet often overlooked in at-home manicures. Dr.Abel strongly advises against glossing over this vital stage. Properly cleaning and buffing your nails helps create a smooth surface for polish application and promotes longer-lasting manicures.

Be gentle with your cuticles

Contrary to popular belief, pushing back or cutting your cuticles is not beneficial; they serve as a protective barrier for the nail matrix. Mistreatment of cuticles can lead to potential infections and overall nail health deterioration.

Having understood the substantial role preparation plays, it’s equally essential to be informed about the common misconceptions surrounding cuticle care.

The truth about cuticle trimming and potential infections

The myth of ‘neater’ cuticles

The practice of cutting or pushing back cuticles has been widely spread under the false pretense that it makes nails appear neater. Unfortunately, this could not be further from the truth. Not only does this cause unnecessary trauma to your nails but it also leaves them vulnerable to infections.

Fighting off infection risks

Cuticle care needs more attention than generally given because damaging them can pave the way for bacterial and fungal intrusions. Cuticles act as a shield against these outside invaders, thus maintaining their integrity is paramount in preventing infections.

Moving beyond these misconceptions, we arrive at an age-specific guide on choosing nail polish after 50 years of age.

Choosing the right polish: appropriate colors and quantity after 50

Finding your color palette

Your choice of nail polish color should ultimately reflect your personal style, regardless of age. However, as we mature, certain shades may complement our skin tone better than others. Consulting a color expert or doing a bit of research can help you find the colors that resonate with you most.

Less is more

As far as quantity goes, less is definitely more. Overdoing polish layers can make your nails appear bulky and may prevent them from breathing properly, leading to potential damage.

With the correct selection of color and understanding the right amount to apply, we can now explore some of the frequent manicure errors that you need to avoid for perfect nails.

Common mistakes to avoid for a perfect manicure

The round nail trap

Dr. Abel warns against one particularly common mistake: rounding off your nails. This practice increases the risk of developing painful ingrown toenails, which are often difficult to resolve without professional help.

Overlooking nail health

Last but not least, ignoring signs of nail health issues like breaking, splitting or discoloration can lead to complications down the line. Regularly inspecting your nails and responding promptly to any irregularities is key in maintaining their overall health.

To wrap up this comprehensive guide on avoiding manicure errors, let’s review the main points covered in this article.

In pursuit of beautiful nails, our practices should not compromise their health. Being conscious of the hidden dangers associated with trendy manicures, understanding the importance of proper preparation before polish application, debunking myths surrounding cuticle care, choosing appropriate colors and quantities of polish after 50, and finally steering clear from common manicure mistakes are all essential steps towards healthy and aesthetically pleasing nails. So next time you pick up that nail file or bottle of polish, remember these expert tips for a safer and more effective at-home manicure experience.