In daily life, trimming nails seems to be a trivial matter. We have learned to pick up nail clippers and “clean up the facade” regularly since childhood. But have you ever thought about whether the way you trim your nails is really correct? Many people have never realized in their entire lives that the way they trim their nails is actually related to health, hygiene, and even psychological state. Today, let us use science and common sense to re-examine this seemingly simple matter.
Structure and function of nails
First of all, we need to understand the structure of nails. Nails are mainly composed of keratin, which consists of nail plates, nail beds, nail roots, nail edges, and nail wrinkles. It is not only for decoration or “beauty”, but also has functions such as protecting the ends of fingers, enhancing touch, and helping grip.
Common misunderstandings about nail trimming
- Cutting too deep
Many people are used to cutting their nails very short, even “close to the flesh”, thinking that this is the cleanest. In fact, doing so can easily damage the nail bed, causing paronychia, redness, swelling, pain, and even bacterial infection. Cutting too short will also increase the risk of nails embedding into the flesh, forming “ingrown nails”. - Cutting into an arc shape
Especially for toenails, many people like to cut them into an arc shape, thinking that they look good or are not easy to scratch socks. However, little do people know that the most correct way to trim toenails is to “cut straight” to avoid cutting too short on both sides. Because the nails are bent and too short at both ends, they are easy to grow into the flesh, causing pain and inflammation. - Ignoring the hygiene of tools
Nail clippers are used for many years without replacement or disinfection. In fact, nail clippers are very easy to accumulate bacteria and fungi. Sharing nail clippers with others may even spread diseases such as tinea pedis and paronychia. It is recommended to wipe the nail clippers with alcohol regularly, and it is best to use them for each person. - Dry cutting or excessive trimming
Cutting nails in a dry state can easily cause nail splitting. The ideal state is to cut nails after taking a bath and when the nails become soft. As for barbs, it is not recommended to tear them by hand or cut them randomly. The correct way is to use nail clippers or small scissors to cut them along the direction of the barbs.
How to cut nails scientifically?
- Trimming frequency
Generally, trimming once a week is enough. If you are a hand worker or athlete, you may need more frequent trimming. - Nail length
It is best to keep a 1-2 mm “white edge”, which is both hygienic and avoids damaging the nail bed. - Cutting method
Fingernails can be slightly trimmed into a natural arc, and toenails must be “cut horizontally” to avoid too short corners. - Maintenance
After trimming your nails, you can use hand cream and nail polish to nourish the skin at the edge of the nail. If you encounter hangnails or dry nail edges, take care of them in time. - Pay attention to abnormal nails
If you find that your nails are discolored, deformed, or falling off, or your nail bed is red, swollen, and pus is coming out, you must be alert to fungal infections, psoriasis and other diseases, and you should seek medical attention in time.
Nails and mental health
Did you know? Studies have found that trimming nails is actually a manifestation of self-care. Many people gain confidence and satisfaction by trimming their nails regularly to keep them clean. Some people with high psychological pressure and anxiety are prone to bad habits such as “biting nails”, which is also a “window” of their mental state.
Conclusion
“Did you cut your nails correctly?” This is not a joke, but a small detail related to health and quality of life. The beauty of life is reflected in these trivial things that we ignore. I hope that next time you pick up a nail clipper, you can be more caring and patient, so that your nails can also become a testimony to your health and self-discipline.