Nail Care for People with Sensitive Skin: Tips and Products
1. Choose the Right Nail File
When it comes to nail care for people with sensitive skin, it’s important to choose a nail file that won’t irritate or damage the skin around the nails. Here are some options that you can consider: Glass nail files: These files are made from hardened glass and are gentle on the skin.
They can also be easily sterilized, making them a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Emery boards: Emery boards are a popular option due to their low cost and easy availability but they can be rough on the skin.
In addition, they may not last as long as other types of nail files so you should keep this in mind when making your decision. Ceramic nail files: These files have an abrasive surface which makes them gentle on the skin while still providing effective filing results.
They can also be sterilized, however they may break more easily than other types of files so caution should be taken when using them
2. Use a Nail Strengthener
Nail hardeners are a great option for those with sensitive skin as they contain keratin or other strengthening agents to help protect the nails. These products can be found in most beauty stores and pharmacies.
Protein-rich nail treatments are also an effective way to rebuild and strengthen nails, making them less prone to breaking and damage. These treatments usually contain proteins such as collagen, which helps build strength from within the nail bed itself.
Additionally, these protein-rich treatments often contain vitamins that promote healthy growth of the nails and help reduce brittleness.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
When shopping for nail care products, it is essential to read the labels and avoid any harsh chemicals that may irritate sensitive skin. Commonly used chemicals in nail polish such as formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates should all be avoided.
Formaldehyde can cause irritation or allergic reactions upon contact with the skin, while toluene has been linked to respiratory problems. Phthalates are often added to make nail polish more flexible but can also be hazardous when exposed to sensitive skin.
When possible look for natural ingredients such as plant-based oils or mineral pigments which will provide a safer alternative without sacrificing efficacy or quality of results.
4. Use a Moisturizing Cuticle Oil
Regularly moisturizing your cuticles is an important step for people with sensitive skin, as dry or cracked cuticles can lead to irritation. To keep your cuticles healthy and hydrated, you have a few options: Natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil are all excellent choices for nourishing the skin around the nails.
Since these oils are natural and free from harsh chemicals or fragrances that can be irritating to sensitive skin types, they are ideal for use on delicate areas of the body such as the hands and fingernails. Simply apply a small amount of oil to each nail bed every night before going to sleep.
Cuticle creams are also available which contain ingredients specifically designed to help strengthen brittle nails while deeply moisturizing them at the same time. These products often include herbal extracts such as chamomile or lavender which provide additional benefits – soothing properties in addition to their hydrating effects – making them especially suitable for those who suffer from sensitivity-related issues such as eczema or psoriasis.
Before using any product though, it’s always best to check its ingredients list first since some formulations may contain potentially irritating substances like parabens or artificial fragrances so make sure you choose one that’s formulated specifically for people with sensitive skin if possible!
5. Protect the Nails from Damage
It is essential to take measures to protect the nails and skin from damage. Wearing gloves when cleaning or working with harsh chemicals can help keep the nails and surrounding skin safe.
Additionally, it’s important to use a base coat before applying nail polish in order to prevent staining and damaging of the nails. A base coat acts as a barrier between your bare nail and any potential irritants contained within the polish itself.
Additionally, using a top coat can also be beneficial for protecting your manicure from scratches or chips that may occur throughout daily activities. To further protect sensitive skin around the nails, moisturizing regularly is recommended as this helps keep them hydrated while also preventing irritation caused by dryness.
6. Choose Non-Toxic Nail Polish
In addition to natural and water-based nail polishes, there are many other non-toxic options for people with sensitive skin. Vegan nail polish is a great choice as it does not contain any animal products or harsh chemicals.
Mineral-based nail polishes are another option that do not contain toxic ingredients, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, some brands offer hypoallergenic polishes made from plant extracts which can also be beneficial in preventing irritation of the skin.
7. Take Breaks from Nail Polish
It’s essential to give your nails a break from nail polish every once in a while. This will not only help them breathe and stay healthy, but it can also prevent staining of the nails due to prolonged exposure to dark colors or dyes.
If you’re used to wearing colored nail polish, consider going bare-nailed for several days in between applications. Alternatively, you could opt for a clear coat of nail polish instead; this will provide some protection without blocking oxygen and moisture from reaching the nails like darker shades tend to do.