Nails are made up of a layered layer of protein called creatine, which grows from the nail bed area under the cuticle. A healthy nail will usually have a uniform size and shape, look smooth and shiny, and without holes or grooves. There are some signs to look out for to make sure your nails are normal, namely:

• Discoloration of all parts or the appearance of black lines

• Change in shape (curved, wavy)

• Thinning or thickening

• Bleeding around the nail

• Swelling around the nail

• Separation from the surrounding skin

• Failure to grow

Importance of Nail Hygiene

People will always involve the nails for various activities, so it is natural to find dirt, bacteria, fungi, and dead skin cells. The area that is most often overlooked to ensure cleanliness is the underside of the nail. While it may look normal at times, dirt and germs can still accumulate there and spread infection. 

There are several diseases that can be caused by the buildup of bacteria under the nails. They very easily spread from the hands to the body through the eyes, mouth, or skin. This usually happens when someone rubs their eyes, uses hands with dirty nails, or scratches their skin. The longer the nails, the more dirt. 

Apart from bacteria, fungi can also be found on nails. Fungus can cause a variety of infections in the nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and making them more prone to cracking and breaking. Not only bacteria and fungi, parasites can also live in dirty nails, such as pinworm parasites. Therefore, it is very important for us to keep our nails clean.

Nail hygiene is important so that it does not become a source of disease

Tips to Keep Your Nails Clean

Hand and toenail hygiene is achieved through the process of cleaning and trimming nails. Many people think that they are cleaning them appropriately, but it is quite the opposite. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone to clean under the nails every time they wash their hands. Here are some tips:

• Keep nails short by trimming them regularly

• Scrub the underside with soap, water and a nail brush.

• Nail care tools should be thoroughly cleaned before use, especially when they are used by multiple people and ensure sharpness

• Keep them dry and clean (avoid prolonged contact with water or chemicals)

• Cut straight, then round off the ends by forming a gentle curve

• Don't forget to moisturize the nail area

Keep your nails short

Don't Do These Things

Sometimes, the little things we do to our nails can trigger their damage and increase the risk of spreading infection-causing pathogens. Therefore, it is important that we do not make the following mistakes:

• Biting the nails or removing cuticles as this can damage the nail bed and the resulting cuts can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause infection

• Removing hanging nails (not completely detached) but should be cut with nail clippers

• Using harsh nail care products, such as alcohol or nail polish remover

• Ignoring a problem that doesn't go away on its own

• Cutting the cuticle as it acts as a barrier to prevent infection

So, it's important to keep your nails clean so that they don't lead to various diseases, be it caused by bacteria, fungi or parasites. Make sure to keep your nails short and always scrub the underside with soap and water. Remember, the longer the nails, the more likely bacteria are there! Are you taking care of your nails yet?

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