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Trimming fingernails and toenails is a crucial task. If left unattended and allowed to grow too long, nails can become sharp, jagged, and potentially hazardous. While it's not necessary to cut them excessively short, regular trimming every few weeks ensures they remain neat and healthy. Continue reading this article for tips and methods to care for your nails effectively.
Steps
Preparing to Trim Nails
Wash your hands and feet. Soak your nails for a few minutes before trimming – this softens them, making the process easier. Less brittle nails are less prone to cracking. Dry your hands and feet after washing. You can trim nails while they're still damp, but you'll have better control over the cuts when they're dry.
- This step is especially important for toenails, which are typically thicker and harder than fingernails, particularly the big toe.
Choose the right trimming tool. You can use nail clippers or nail scissors. The choice depends on personal preference. Consider the pros and cons of each tool:
- Nail clippers are affordable, easy to use, and widely available. They allow you to follow the natural curve of the nail, which is convenient if the clipper fits well but uncomfortable if it's too large or small. Toenail clippers typically have a larger, less curved head to accommodate thicker nails and prevent ingrown nails.
- Nail scissors are less common but preferred by some. They require more precision but offer better control for curved cuts. As the name suggests, they are ideal for fingernails, while larger clippers are better for toenails.
- Medical professionals advise against using sharp objects like knives, razors, or regular scissors, as they are dangerous and can cause injury if they slip.
Ensure your tools are clean. If possible, purchase separate nail care kits for fingernails and toenails. Regularly clean your tools with a sterilizing product to maintain hygiene. Dish soap or antibacterial soap works well: simply soak the tools in hot, soapy water for about 10 minutes.
Choose your trimming location carefully. Designate a spot to collect nail clippings, as leaving them scattered can be unpleasant for others. Trim nails over a trash can or compost bin, keeping your hands or feet above it. Avoid trimming nails in public or near people engaged in conversation.
- Nail clippings can be composted. Though small, they are organic and will decompose. Avoid composting fake nails (acrylic) or painted nails, as synthetic materials do not break down.
Trimming the Nails
Trim your fingernails. The goal of trimming is to remove the "overgrown" part of the nail: the curved, opaque white section at the fingertip. Cut straight across and round the edges to maintain nail strength. A straight cut reduces the risk of ingrown nails.
- If you play guitar with your fingertips, consider growing your nails longer. Let the nails on your strumming hand grow about 1.5 to 2mm.
Cut small sections at a time. Trim nails in small increments; avoid cutting the entire overgrown portion in one go. Toenails often have an oval shape, and cutting too much at once can ruin this shape.
Trim your toenails. Use the same technique as for fingernails, but note that toenails are thicker. Avoid using clippers that are too small. Cut straight across to prevent injury, especially for diabetics, who may risk hospitalization if cuts are too deep. Ideally, use separate tools for fingernails and toenails to avoid bacterial transfer.
Avoid cutting nails too short. Sometimes, you might feel tempted to keep trimming for convenience, aesthetics, or compulsion. However, cutting too deep exposes the sensitive skin underneath and increases infection risk. Aim to trim nails level with the fingertip or leave a small opaque edge.
Filing the Nails
File your nails after trimming. While not mandatory, filing helps shape your nails as desired. Trimming often leaves jagged edges, which can be smoothed out easily. Use a nail file, pumice stone, or any rough, hard surface to file.
- Jagged nails can snag on clothes, socks, or leather. If caught on something, they may tear or break.
Wait for nails to dry. Ensure your nails are dry and firm before filing. Filing wet nails can leave them uneven and rough once dry, leading to scratches and cracks.
File your nails. Use a nail file to shape and smooth the edges. Always file gently, using long strokes from the sides toward the center. Start with a coarse side to shape the nails if shortening them, then switch to a finer side for smoothing.
- Nails should resemble a triangle or oval without sharp points. This reduces breakage. Filing too deeply into corners weakens the nails.
Inspect your nails as you go. While trimming or filing, regularly check to ensure uniformity in length and shape. Ensure nails are smooth; sharp or rough edges can cause injury or daily discomfort. Continue trimming and filing until all nails are even.
Tips
- Apply nail oil or moisturizer nightly to keep nails smooth and hydrated, preventing peeling and scratching. A cost-effective alternative is a drop of olive oil.
- Wear rubber gloves while washing dishes. Prolonged water exposure softens nails, so handle them carefully when wet.
- Polish nails for a glossy finish. Massage cuticles with cuticle cream to maintain their health and moisture.
- Clean under nails with a pointed cotton swab. This method is gentler than using a nail brush, reducing irritation to sensitive skin.
- Use specialized toenail clippers. Regular clippers are curved, but toenail clippers are flat to prevent ingrown nails.
- Apply hand cream after washing hands. The oils in the cream help retain nail moisture.
- When gardening or doing messy work, scrape nails over a bar of soap to fill the undersides and prevent dirt buildup.
- For weak nails, apply a base coat and polish under the nail tips to strengthen them.
- After painting nails, spray a bit of cooking anti-stick spray for extra shine and faster drying.
- Always clean under nails to prevent bacterial growth.
- Ideal nail length is slightly longer than the fingertip.
Warnings
- Trim nails slowly and carefully to avoid cutting skin or going too deep.
- Avoid cutting nails too short, which can cause bleeding. Leave some nail to protect against bacterial infections.
- Sanitize tools before trimming or filing by soaking them in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes.
- Do not bite nails, as this can lead to ingrown nails.
What You'll Need
- Clean, sharp nail clippers for fingers and toes
- A trash bin or compost container for nail clippings
- A bowl of water for soaking nails
- Cuticle remover and nail nourishing products
- A nail file
