Nail infection doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone. Proper nail hygiene is the best way to reduce the chance of it happening to you. Remember, it’s important to take the time to clean your nails every day. It doesn’t take much time and it’s simple to accomplish.
Proper Cleaning Procedures
If you don’t own a nailbrush, now is the time to purchase one. They’re inexpensive and can be found in any store where health and beauty items are sold.
Using the brush, scrub both sides of your nails with soap and water. Scrub each nail, for at least a minute, to clean it thoroughly.
If you use lotion, on your hands and feet, make sure that you rub it into your nails. This helps to keep them pliable and easier to cut.
Keep a small bottle of gel hand sanitizer with you, when you travel. It’s not the ideal choice. But in the event you need to clean your hands, it’s better than nothing until you have access to a water source.
Proper Trimming Procedures
Before you get started, make sure that your nail clippers or scissors are properly sterilized. This is especially important, if you share grooming tools with family members. Sterilize them in boiling water or clean them with rubbing alcohol.
Always trim your nails as short as possible, going straight across from one side to the other. Never cut the cuticle. Not only is this painful, it can lead to infection. Why? The job of the cuticle is to be an active barrier against infection.
Many people find it easier to trim their nails almost immediately after taking a shower. Your nails are softer then, which makes them easier to cut.
If you notice a hangnail, resist the temptation to pull it off. Doing so, might damage healthy skin in the process.
Signs of Nail Infection
Signs of nail infection include but are not limited to:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Thick nails
- Bleeding around the nail
- Curling of the nail
- Changes in color
Many times, with proper care, you can successfully treat a minor nail infection at home. However, there are times when professional treatment is recommended. This is especially true, if the infection goes untreated for a long period of time.
Clean nails prevent the spread of germs, it’s as simple as that. This holds true for both fingernails and toenails. Reduce or even eliminate the possibility of dealing with a nail infection, by keeping nails clean. Honestly, maintaining healthy nails is probably easier than you think.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any nail infections.
