A damaged nail, whether on your hands or feet, can be a source of frustration for the entire day. Nails are true indicators of our health, and they deserve our attention and care. Learn everything you need to know about nails, their structure, their weaknesses, and the best products to take care of them.
Nail Anatomy
A semi-transparent, cornified plate, the nail serves humans in much the same way as claws serve animals. It acts as an additional layer to protect the tips of our fingers, which are constantly in use.
The nail is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, which gives it its hard texture and pinkish color. Numerous minerals, such as calcium, sodium, magnesium, and iron, are also part of its structure. On average, nails grow at a rate of 5 mm per month.
Apart from its components, the anatomy of the nail reveals various distinct parts, each playing a specific role.
What is the Structure of a Nail?
Nails are far more complex than they seem. Each part plays a vital role in its health and growth. Let's explore the different components of nail anatomy:
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Nail Bed: The nail bed is the skin underneath the nail, rich in blood vessels that give the nail its characteristic pinkish color. The nail's primary function is to protect this sensitive area. The nail bed is essential for nourishing and supporting the growth of the nail.
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Nail Fold: Also called the "proximal nail fold," this is the soft tissue around the nail, forming a natural frame. It protects the nail by preventing bacteria and other foreign bodies from entering under the nail.
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Nail Groove: The groove is the slit or fold separating the nail from the nail fold. This area is particularly vulnerable to infections if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning of this area is crucial to prevent issues like ingrown nails.
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Matrix: The matrix is the true production site of the nail, located at the base under the skin. It produces keratin, the protein that forms the nail. The health of the matrix is vital, as it determines the quality and speed of nail growth. Any damage to the matrix can permanently affect nail growth.
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Cuticle: Also known as the eponychium, the cuticle is a thin band of dead skin that covers the base of the nail, where it emerges from the matrix. Although it might seem unnecessary, the cuticle plays a crucial protective role by preventing bacteria and moisture from reaching the sensitive matrix. Experts recommend pushing the cuticle gently back during care, rather than cutting it.
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Lunula: This part of the nail, visible at the base as a whitish or pale crescent, is actually the visible end of the matrix. Its lighter color occurs because the cells in this area are still young and haven't yet fully keratinized. Not everyone has a visible lunula, and its size can vary from person to person. Its presence and appearance can sometimes indicate your overall health status.
How to Care for Your Nails?
Your nails deserve more than just neglect. It's time to give them the attention they need! Discover how to properly care for your nails and restore their strength.
How to Care for Striated and Brittle Nails?
Striated and brittle nails can result from various factors, such as:
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Frequent exposure to water or chemicals
- Natural aging
- Excessive use of nail polish or nail products
To address this, Poderm’s Striated, Brittle, or Split Nail Serum is an effective solution. It acts as a natural hardener, fortifying and deeply nourishing damaged nails and cuticles. This serum helps restore the natural barrier of the nail and skin, making nails more resistant from day one.
How to Treat Damaged Nails?
Nails can become damaged for several reasons: exposure to harsh chemicals, frequent use of gel or semi-permanent polish, nutritional deficiencies, or medical conditions.
If you're looking for a treatment to clarify, repair, and smooth your nails while specifically targeting yellowed, stained, or damaged nails, discover Poderm's Yellow Nails Serum. This formula improves the appearance of nails damaged by fungus or aging. It works from the first day to renew the nail’s barrier, offering a quick and effective solution for healthier, more beautiful nails.
How to Keep Nails Healthy?
Nail fungus is a fungal infection that can cause thickening, discoloration, and crumbling of nails.
To prevent and treat this, Poderm® Nail Fungus Serum is a highly effective solution. It works efficiently against nail fungus, yellow nails, and nail psoriasis. The serum creates a lipidic protective film that eliminates the fungus while promoting natural nail renewal. It also strengthens the nail’s barrier function and restores its natural immunity.
This serum is compatible with Poderm® Booster Serum and Poderm® Color Care Nail Polish, offering a complete solution for healthy nails.
How to Choose Nail Polish?
You’re in the beauty aisle, surrounded by a dazzling array of tempting shades. Your eyes light up in front of this colour festival. But before you succumb to that passionate red or electric blue, let’s take a moment to think about what your nails really need.
Nails face daily exposure to water, household products, and impacts. So, why not choose a polish that protects them while beautifying? This is where strengthening polishes come in.
Poderm® Color Strong Hardening Polishes are perfect for reinforcing fragile, soft, striated nails, or nails that tend to break. These polishes support strong regrowth and protect nails from everyday damage. Enriched with keratin, biotin, and silicon, these polishes fortify and protect your nails. The range includes 8 shades, a Base Coat hardener, and a Top Coat hardener for a complete manicure.
5 Tips for a Beautiful Manicure/Pedicure
Learn How to File Your Nails Properly
For a great manicure, it’s essential to file your nails correctly. Here’s how:
- Use a glass or cardboard file, avoid metal files that can be too harsh.
- Always file in one direction to avoid weakening the nail.
- Shape them into a rounded or square shape based on your preferences, following the natural shape of your nails
Choose the Right Nail Polish Remover
Choosing the right nail polish remover is critical for maintaining your nails’ health. Traditional removers, often based on acetone, can be harsh and dry out your nails and cuticles. Opt for a gentler alternative.
Poderm’s extra-gentle, acetone-free remover is an excellent option. It effectively removes nail polish while caring for your nails. It softens and protects both the nail and cuticle, preventing dryness and weakening.
Limit the Use of False Nails
False nails, semi-permanent polish, and UV gel have become very popular for providing perfect nails for weeks. However, to preserve your nails’ health, limit their use and alternate with periods where your natural nails can "breathe."
Make sure that application and removal are always done by a professional to minimize damage.
Opt for gentler alternatives, like classic nail polishes enriched with care, such as Poderm's Color Strong polishes, which beautify while strengthening the natural nail.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet is essential for healthy nails. Ensure your diet includes:
- Proteins (lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes)
- Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals
- Biotin-rich foods (eggs, nuts, seeds)
- Iron sources (red meats, spinach, lentils)
Consider Supplements
To enhance the benefits of a healthy diet, supplements can be helpful. Poderm's nail supplements, enriched with zinc, vitamins, ginger, grapefruit seeds, and bamboo, offer a powerful combination that effectively combats yellow and damaged nails. A month-long treatment will strengthen and repair brittle, split, damaged, or yellowed nails.
Remember, healthy nails aren’t just about aesthetics (although let’s be honest, it’s always nice to have flawless nails). Take the time to choose products that suit your specific needs, and most importantly, give your nails the care they deserve. With this knowledge, you’re ready to provide your nails with the best care possible!
