Dermatologist reveals the ‘key to nail growth’ – never cut your cuticles & a non-manicure habit makes a huge difference
A DERMATOLOGIST has put her finger on the perfect nail routine.
Her time-saving tricks will give you an envious longer nail look and save you money on your next mani.
DOESN’T CUT IT
Dr. Dana Stern, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Dana Nails, has shared how to keep your nail game strong by following her top cuticle commandment.
“Do not cut the cuticle. The cuticle is the nail’s natural protective seal,” she told The U.S. Sun.
“Keep the cuticle healthy by gently pushing back with a washcloth after a shower or bath and hydrating regularly,” she continued.
For stronger nails, she says you can’t cut corners when it comes to your cuticles.
“It is s essential to have a healthy, intact, hydrated cuticle. The cuticle is the key to nail growth and the nail’s natural protective barrier,” she said.
She recommends her own Dr. Dana Cuticle Oil, which sells for $18, for its nourishing properties which are meant to fortify the cuticle.
“The formula contains Indigo Naturalis, an amazing plant-based ingredient that has been used in Asia for centuries to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions,” she said.
RUN WITH IT
If you want to always show off a perfect pedicure, forget paying a visit to your nail salon. Rather, she has only two words for you – constant cardio.
She shared how this type of exercise will increase delivery or “perfusion” to the fingernails as well as toenails.
This is especially crucial for keeping your nail game strong during the warmer months when growth is more stunted.
“Effective blood flow to the hands and feet is essential for optimal nail growth and health,” she said.
“This is because the bloodstream delivers oxygen and nutrients to the nails. If circulation is compromised – think cold hands and feet – then optimal delivery of these essentials will be impaired,” she added.
“This is also why nails tend to grow faster in warmer, summer months. Warm weather leads to dilation of the blood vessels which results in more efficient delivery to the nails.”
This is in sharp contrast to the colder months, when vessels are more prone to constricting.
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Dr. Dana Nails Nourishing Cuticle Oil, $18, Dr. Dana Nails
Dr. Dana Glass Nile File, $15, Amazon
Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System, $30, Amazon
Some pampering can also promote growth.
“Hand and foot massages can be effective to help with circulation of the extremities,” she said.
This is especially true after age 40 when Dr. Stern says nail growth rates “drop off dramatically.”
MORE TOP TIPS
Dr. Stern’s other top tips for keeping nails healthy include eliminating your emery board.
“Glass files are superior tools – in comparison to paper emery boards – which prevent the creation of microscopic splits, peeling, tears, breakage, and premature polish chipping,” she said.
Glass files will also help keep nails from breaking while ensuring the polish lasts longer.
Her own glass file, which sells for $15 on Amazon, will “gently shape and contour natural nails for a smooth edge without microscopic tears and damage caused by traditional emery boards.”
The file is not only hygienic but never “dulls.”
Taking off your polish the right way can also give better results.
“Avoid acetone-based polish removers and opt for acetone-free formulas with hydrating ingredients,” she said.
The nail expert is also a fan of effective exfoliation and even founded her own Nail Renewal System, which can be purchased on Amazon for $30.
“Just like we exfoliate and then hydrate dry, ashy, peeling skin, brittle nails need to be rehabilitated too, and it comes down to the right product choice,” she said.
The “polish-free system” is ideal for nails that have been over-processed by gels, dips, or basic polish.
“It’s the first nail treatment to incorporate glycolic acid and the concept of exfoliation for the nail, the system is like a facial for your nails,” she said.
For fewer chips, and more “glowing” nails, she recommends using the botanical-infused kit once a week.