Often we are asked questions about nail problems. The three main conditions are fungal infections, cracked, or split nails. Poor nutrition, dryness, overwashing, aging, trauma and using harsh nail products all play a roll in nail health.
Nail hydration helps maintain healthy nails – don’t forget nails tissue is dead. Spending lots of money on products that claim to make nails healthy is generally a waste of money. It is important to use products to help hydrate such as glycerin along with a bit of lactic acid and urea.
During the Generational Dermatology Summit in New York City, this topic was addressed by well known US dermatologists. For Brittle Nail Syndrome, the importance of hydration, urea, lactic acid and the avoidance of hand sanitizers containing triclosan was discussed. There are some studies suggesting that oral calcium, zinc, selenium, b12 and Vitamin A may be important.
French manicures and good quality nail polish help to protect the nails from damage. Nail shellacs are polymers cured and bonded through UV radiation to the natural nail. They are quite long wearing , resistant to chips and are attractive. There may be a concern regarding the UV radiation used to cure the shellac. The wavelength used may possibly damage the retina.
For those who have underlying health issues or are concerned about catching a nail fungus or bacterial infection it is important to go to the appropriate clinic for pedicures. A high level of sanitation and sterilization is important, such as that obtained through a medical facility. The term “medi pedi” is unregulated – it is not the same as a medical pedicure, where high standards need to be met and a medical doctor with dermatology training is present to address your concerns.