Does Nail Polish Harm Your Nails?

Americans spend billions every year on nail care products but many may not be aware of the harm that nail polish can cause to fingernails and toenails over time.

Nails can turn yellow from absorbing pigment of color from the polish. Some polishes have iron oxides in them, the same chemicals we know as “rust.” Your nails can “rust” in their own way when using polishes with these chemicals in them. Many nail polishes also have formaldehyde in their list of ingredients. When the keratin protein in your nails reacts with this chemical, nails can become yellow and brittle.

Gel nails are very popular in salons. Through its application and removal, this type of manicure has been found to make nails weak, brittle and thin over time. Acrylic nails are also common but can be dangerous if they lift off the natural nail even slightly as this small gap leaves the natural nail at risk for infection.

If you have thick and discolored nails, which are most likely from a fungal infection, it is never a good idea to apply nail polish to cover them up. Nail polish does not allow nails to breathe and prevents necessary moisture from getting in. It is also important to remember that nail polish remover contains acetone which dries out nails and over time can make nails brittle as well.

If you have any concern about the health of your nails, contact foot specialist Dr. Tejas Pandya. His podiatric office in Troy, NY can treat any toenail problem you may have. Call our office at (518) 273-0053 or visit us at www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.

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Skip the expense and give yourself a pedicure at home!

Proper toenail care is an important aspect of keeping your feet healthy.  Not only should you exercise and keep your feet clean, but your toenails need to be cared for as well.  Going to an expensive salon or spa to get a pedicure can be expensive and sometimes inconvenient with a busy schedule.  However, you can make your feet look just as great by giving yourself a pedicure in the convenience of your home.

First things first – you must purchase the proper nail care tools.  The cost may seem slightly high at first, but remember this is only a onetime expense, as your tools can last for awhile if taken care of properly.  The tools you need for self pedicures include nail polish remover, nail clippers, moisturizing lotion or cream, foot scrub or a foot file, a bowl, cuticle remover and nail polish.

Once you’ve got the essentials for a pedicure you need to follow these steps:

1.      Disinfect your tools.  After every use your foot tools should be disinfected. Doing this simple task will prevent the spread of germs that may cause foot infections. 

2.      Clean your feet.  Wash your feet with soap and water to prevent any sort of foot fungus from developing.

3.      Soak your toenails.  Fill a bowl with warm water and soak your feet for 10 minutes. Remember to dry your feet thoroughly before you begin your pedicure.

4.      Scrub your feet.  If you have dry skin you should use a scrub or a foot file to get rid of dead skin.

5.      File and cut.  Toenails should be cut straight across and the nail should not go past the end of your toe. After cutting your toenails you can file them to your desired shape.

6.      Moisturize.  After you soak your feet then apply a moisturizing lotion or cream. Make sure not to put lotion between your toes.

7.      Use a cuticle remover.  Push back the cuticles with an orange stick or a Hindu stone. Cuticles offer protection from bacteria and infection. Cuticles clearly overhanging the nail margins need to be carefully trimmed. Do not trim any further than the nail margin or draw blood as this can lead to infection.

8.      Use nail polish remover.  Even if you do not have old nail polish on it’s always a good idea to use remover before applying new polish. Nail polish remover will get rid of any oil and protect the cuticle area from infection.

9.      Polish.  Pick your favorite nail polish and start applying a base coat.  When the first base coat has been applied then you can apply two more coats and finish with a top coat, which will make your pedicure last longer.

Proper and regular toenail care can help protect your feet from developing conditions like toenail fungus and bunions. If you have noticed any skin issues on your feet, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Tejas Pandya at (518) 273-0053 to schedule an appointment.

http://www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com/library/1911/Pedicures.html; http://www.marketwatch.com/story/beauty-regimens-that-wont-break-the-bank-2012-02-23