• Always remember to dry your hands properly after you’ve made them wet. Leaving your fingers or toes damp for a long time increases the chances of a fungal nail infection.
• Applying some petroluem jelly every night is a good habit - this will remove dryness and also keep your nails moisturised and hydrated. Castor oil also works in the same way and protects your nails.
• Include apples, cucumbers, onions, garlic, asparagus, grapes, nuts and whole grains in your diet to have strong nails.
• Never cut your cuticles or calluses. The cuticle protects your nails from infection, and the calluses will grow back harder, and give you discomfort.
• Even if you don’t like applying nail polish, try and apply a clear coat occassionally - it will protect your nails.
• Wearing rubber gloves while doing the housework will protect them against the harsh chemicals found in detergents.
• If you wear closed shoes most of the time, chances are you’d also sweat a lot. Wear cotton socks to prevent fungal infections.
• Have foods that are rich in zinc like hard boiled eggs and milk - they do wonders for your nails.
• Avoid filing your nails just after a bath. This is when they’re at their weakest and also tend to break easily.
• Buffing your nails regularly increases blood supply and makes them grow faster.