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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Winter Pedicures – Are They Safe?

Pedicures can be traced back 5000 years to India when people polished their nails with henna. Nail polish was used to show status in 3000 B.C. China. Wearing red or black gave you elite status. The Egyptians in 2300 B.C. also colored their nails.

A pedicure = foot care

In Latin, “pes” means foot and “cura” means care, meaning getting a pedicure is ultimately caring for your feet. There are some important rules to follow though to ensure feet stay safe and healthy. In the winter feet can get dry with less moisture in the air. A pedicure can slough away rough skin and calluses but never allow a technician to use a razor. It increases the risk of injury and infection. If dry feet have resulted in cracks in your skin, avoid a pedicure entirely. Cracks in your skin are at great risk for infection if any bacteria gets in.

As tempted as you may be, don’t shave before heading to the salon. Shaving can leave tiny nicks in your skin and the bacteria in a dirty foot bath is not something you want near them. Invest in your own tools as well. Even if a salon looks inviting, they may not sterilize their equipment well and germs can linger on old tools.

Here is a handy winter pedicure tip: To avoid wasting your money on a great winter pedicure, ask the technician to put cuticle oil on your toenails and put plastic around them before putting your shoes or boots back on.

If you have an injury that needs treatment before being able to get a pedicure or if getting one has given you an injury, contact Dr. Tejas Pandya, a foot specialist in Troy, NY. Call our podiatric office at (518) 273-0053 or visit us at www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.

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