How to protect nails from nail polish damages

A new season brings with it new trends in nail polish shades. In order to keep up with the trends and experience all the amazing new colors before the next season's come out, I often find myself changing my nail polish color as much as I can. Although the results may look great, my nails aren't often in the best of shape. However, there are easy ways to treat and prevent any damage too much nail polish can cause to your nails.

Some signs of nail damage include: white marks, peeling, spots, and vertical ridges on your nails.

One of the most important things you can do when painting your nails is to remember to always apply a base coat before applying your nail polish color. A base coat will stop any chemicals in the nail polish from actually getting to your nails. Also, it prevents your nails from getting a yellowish hue.

Although some people like to grow their nails long, shorter nails are usually healthier. If your nails are too long there is a greater chance that they will snag on something during your day and break or tear, which can be painful. Whether your nails are long of short it's a good idea to keep a nail file handy so you can file off any unevenness after a tear happens. To prevent tears the best shape your nails can be is square with a slightly rounded end. Also make sure you clean under your nails often. I like to keep a nailbrush in the shower and use it as part of my daily routine.

Another way to keep your nails healthy and still wear nail polish is to change the type of nail polish you use. Avoid any nail polishes that contain toluene, formaldehyde and DBP. All these ingredients can help to damage and dry out your nails.

Another often used nail damager is nail polish remover. You really should only use nail polish remover twice a month on your nails. I know this sounds really hard to do considering how many fun colors there are to change your nails to, and also it can be hard to make a manicure last two weeks. It helps to make your manicure last longer if you use a really good quality top coat and apply it every few days to prevent chipping.

When you do have to use nail polish remover, make sure you find one that does not contain acetone.

Sometimes no matter how hard you try, your nails might still end up brittle and peeling. It happens to the best of us. A good way to deal with this and make your nails healthier again is to soak them. Simply heat up some bath oil, or olive oil will work too, and soak your fingers in it for 10-15 minutes. After the soak, rub come lotion of cuticle cream onto your nails a cuticles and your nails will be back to normal in no time.