How to Fix Nails for Beginners in Nigeria

If you're a beginner in the world of nail care, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to fix nails on your own. Between choosing the right tools, products, and techniques, there's a lot to consider. But don't worry – with some patience and practice, anyone can learn how to fix nails like a pro. In this article, we'll cover the basics of nail care and provide step-by-step instructions for fixing common nail problems.

Understanding Nail Anatomy

Before we dive into the specifics of nail care, it's important to understand the basic anatomy of a nail. A nail is made up of several layers – the nail plate, the nail bed, and the nail matrix. The nail plate is the hard, visible part of the nail that sits on top of the nail bed. The nail bed is the skin underneath the nail plate, and the nail matrix is the area at the base of the nail where new cells are formed.

Choosing the Right Tools

To fix nails at home, you'll need a few basic tools. These include:

• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Cuticle pusher
• Cuticle scissors
• Buffing block
• Base coat
• Top coat
• Nail polish (optional)

When choosing these tools, it's important to invest in high-quality products. Cheap tools can cause damage to your nails and make it harder to achieve a professional-looking result.

Common Nail Problems and How to Fix Them

Now that you have the right tools, let's take a look at some common nail problems and how to fix them.

1. Brittle Nails

Brittle nails are nails that are dry and prone to breaking. To fix brittle nails, try the following:

• Apply a moisturizing nail cream or oil to your nails and cuticles daily
• Avoid using harsh nail products, such as acetone-based nail polish removers
• Use a strengthening base coat before applying nail polish
• Avoid using your nails as tools

2. Yellow Nails

Yellow nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including smoking, nail polish, and fungal infections. To fix yellow nails, try the following:

• Use a whitening nail polish or treatment
• Avoid smoking and minimize your exposure to other chemicals that can stain your nails
• Keep your nails clean and dry
• Consult a doctor if you suspect a fungal infection

3. Ingrown Nails

Ingrown nails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the skin surrounding the nail. To fix ingrown nails, try the following:

• Soak your feet or hands in warm water to soften the skin
• Gently lift the corner of the ingrown nail with a cuticle pusher
• Trim the nail straight across, avoiding curved edges
• Apply an antiseptic cream to the area

4. Hangnails

Hangnails are small pieces of skin that have torn away from the side of the nail. To fix hangnails, try the following:

• Avoid biting or pulling at hangnails, as this can make them worse
• Use cuticle scissors to trim the hangnail as close to the base as possible
• Apply a moisturizing cream or oil to the area

Step-by-Step Nail Care Routine

Now that you know how to fix common nail problems, let's take a look at a step-by-step nail care routine that you can follow to keep your nails healthy and strong.

1. Remove any old nail polish using a non-acetone nail polish remover.
2. Trim your nails straight across using nail clippers.
3. Use a nail file to shape your nails and smooth any rough edges.
4. Apply a cuticle cream or oil to your nails and cuticles, and use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles.
5. Use cuticle scissors to trim any excess skin around your nails.
6. Use a buffing block to smooth the surface of your nails.
7. Apply a base coat to your nails.
8. Apply two coats of your chosen nail polish color, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
9. Apply a top coat to seal in your nail polish and add shine.
10. Allow your nails to dry completely before using your hands or feet.

Conclusion

Fixing nails may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it's easy to achieve beautiful, healthy nails at home. Remember to invest in high-quality products, be patient, and take the time to care for your nails properly.

FAQs

1. How often should I trim my nails?

   • It's best to trim your nails once a week to prevent them from becoming too long and prone to breaking.

2. Can I apply nail polish over a base coat?

   • Yes, a base coat is essential for ensuring that your nail polish goes on smoothly and lasts longer.

3. How do I choose the right nail polish color for my skin tone?

   • Generally, cool skin tones look best with blue-based colors, while warm skin tones look best with yellow-based colors.

4. How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

   • Make sure to trim your toenails straight across, wear properly fitting shoes, and avoid injuring your toes.

5. Can I use regular lotion on my hands and feet instead of a specific nail cream?

   • While regular lotion can help moisturize your hands and feet, it's best to use a product specifically designed for nails to keep them healthy and strong.