Healthy fingernails, home remedies for great looking nails and hands

Fingernails, a collection of keratin that develops under the cuticle and moves outward as new cells form, take a beating from within and without. Artists, carpenters and factory workers subject nails to a bevy of harsh chemicals and rough surfaces that wreak havoc on fingernails. While the fingernails of those who work in offices, hospitals and restaurants are subject to just as much stress from repetitive motions, such as typing, opening drawers and constantly handling objects throughout the workday. No matter what line of work you're in, a combination of diet, hygiene and protection will keep your nails healthy and looking good.

TIPS:

1. Watch what you eat. A healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, fiber and protein containing essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and calcium, helps fingernails stay strong.

2. Protect your hands with gloves when working with water, dirt and harsh chemicals.

3. Wash hands, including fingernails, regularly throughout the day. Wash around and beneath the nails to remove any excess dirt, food, ink and any other products you work with on a regular basis.

4. Moisturize fingernails regularly, rubbing lotion into the nail surface. This is especially important after using polish remover, as the harsh chemicals tend to leach moisture from fingernails and the surrounding skin.

5. Keep nails trimmed and filed regularly. The Mayo Clinic advises trimming nails after bathing or soaking when the nails are soft and pliable. Trim nails straight across to the length desired and file in only one direction to prevent splitting and cracking along the edges of the nails.

6. Buff nails to add shine. Buffing increases blood circulation below the nail bed, which strengthens nails and increases growth.

7. Visit only licensed, reputable nail salons or nail technicians when you choose to get professional manicures or acrylic nails. The salon should have licenses posted in open areas, equipment should be sterilized and the facility should be neat, clean and free of harsh fumes.