Toe Nail Care: A guide to keeping your toenails healthy
Often neglected, the toes often need more nail care than the hands.
Since the toes spend the bulk of their time in a moist, dark, enclosed
space, diligent nail care is required to stave off fungal growth,
ingrown toenails and overgrown toenails. Here is an easy, no-nonsense,
step-by-step routine for ensuring that your toes get the nail care
they (and you) deserve:
- Nail Care step 1: Keep them clean – Make sure you wash
your toes thoroughly whenever you bathe. Good nail care depends
first and foremost on a clean start.
- Nail Care step 2: Dry them off – When you're done
bathing, make sure you dry your feet well. Any moisture that goes
with your feet into your shoes will foster fungal growth . . .
one of the primary enemies of good nail care.
- Nail Care step 3: Cut them short – Letting your toenails
grow too long enables toenail fungus and puts you at risk for
painful ingrown toenails. Regular clipping is paramount in good
nail care.
- Nail Care step 4: Dress them right – Choose cotton socks
that absorb moisture and well ventilated shoes. If you work out,
good nail care dictates that you change out of your sweaty socks
when you are done.
- Nail Care step 5: Treat them fast – If you notice any problems
with your toenails, treat them immediately. Topical solutions
and prescription drugs can help eliminate toenail fungus.
- Nail Care step 6: Air them out – If you can get away without
wearing socks, do it. Part of good nail care is giving your toenails
adequate time in the open. This will hinder bacterial growth.
- Nail Care step 7: Pamper them occasionally – A pedicure
will do wonders for your toenails. Newly clipped cuticles, buffing,
filing and polishing can be a fun and beneficial occasional nail
care treat.
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