Anuoluwapo Adebayo: @anu_chayil shares Tips on taking care of your nails

Grooming your nails is not a practice for only aesthetic reasons; we take care of our nails to prevent diseases and infection. For some people like me getting a pedicure and manicure is a form of relaxation.

Poor nail care can lead to disorders which if unattended to can cause permanent damage to nails. Taking care of your nails should not be a dreadful task and also should not be an expensive habit; there are many home-made materials you can use and at your convenient time and in your space.

Men, your grooming reflects you and yes people look at your nails too. Because you wear covered shoes much more (than women), you need to take care of your feet and toe nails. Going to a salon is not emasculating but shows you take yourself and your health seriously.

If you choose to use a professional for your pedicure and manicure, please pay attention to sanitary products and also have personal utensils that you bring with you to the salon and keep them clean. Also say something if you feel there is a problem or know what works for you; for instance, I never allow my nail lady scrap, scratch or peel any part of my skin, not because she is dangerous but my skin is soft and once I soak my hands and feet, scrubbing only is sufficient and also getting an injury can be really painful and makes you susceptible to getting an infection.

For ladies who have established a routine of visiting their nail tech every two weeks only to have your nails wrapped and polished, this is not sufficient as proper care is necessary.

Always look out for dirt trapped under your fingernails and clean them. You may not be able to do this as often for toe nails but be sure to wash your feet very well and scrub the nail area.

Stop bad habits like biting your nails, peeling off or pulling your skin or cuticle with your teeth; most times it causes injury. Trim your nails to keep them strong and healthy.

Use the right products; don’t push back your cuticles with toothpick, or file your nails with a rusty iron nail file or use blade to cut your nails. Use a nail cutter, cuticle pusher and a wooden board; use coconut or olive oil if you do not have cuticle oil; use shower gel or baby soap rather than harsh soaps when soaking your feet at home.

Pay attention to changes in your nails; the colour (although the colour of the nails can change due to stains from nail polish so note the difference); texture- has it suddenly become hard or does it break easily now; nail detaching from the skin; and pain with or without any pressure applied. Sometimes a change in your nails can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition. If you experience any disorder with your nails, visit a dermatologist for the best way to treat it.

Use hand and nail creams especially if you have dry nails and skin. Also if your job requires you to stress your hands or exposure to chemicals, or you work outdoors, it is essential that you take proper care of your hands, feet and nails to prevent discomfort, pain and aged looking skin.

Stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water and eating healthy to promote good nail growth and condition.