Nail Care

Nail Care Supplies
Nail Care

If you're new to buying nail health products, an excellent place to start is just knowing which nail care tools do what. Of course, some items will depend on your personal preference. For instance, you won't need nail polish remover if you don't paint your nails. But it's a good idea to understand what different manicure items do.

Basic Nail Care Tools
Following are some everyday nail care products you might consider purchasing:

Nail clippers
High-quality nail clippers are a must-have for most people. They should consist of durable materials, such as stainless steel, and maintain their sharpness for an extended period of use.

Unfortunately, there are cheaply made nail clippers that dull after just a few uses. So it's generally worth paying a little more for a high-quality item you won't need to replace as frequently.

Some nail clippers offer a more ergonomic design, with easy to squeeze thumb levers. This may be especially important if you have issues with dexterity. You may also find nail clippers sized specifically for fingernails vs. toenails.

Nail files or emery boards
While nail clippers can help keep your nails trimmed, it often takes a little filing to get the edges smooth and free of snags. Maintaining smooth nails can help prevent scratches and hangnails. This is where nail files or emery boards come into play.

Nail files may be made of metal and intended for repeated use. Nail clippers sometimes have mini nail files built-in. Emery boards are less abrasive, which makes them more gentle to use.

Manicure sticks
These small wooden sticks can be used to clean dirt from under nails and push back cuticles, the layer of clear skin at the bottom of fingernails, and toenails. Manicure sticks usually have one side pointed, with the other cut at a flat angle.

Manicure sticks
These small wooden sticks can be used to clean dirt from under nails and push back cuticles, the layer of clear skin at the bottom of fingernails, and toenails. Manicure sticks usually have one side pointed, with the other cut at a flat angle.

Nail polish remover pads make the process even more convenient. These individually wrapped disposable pads are pre-soaked in nail polish remover, so all you need to do is wipe the moistened towelette across your nails to remove nail polish.

Soap or hand sanitizer
Frequent handwashing is an integral part of nail care. Bacteria and other germs can get caught under fingernails. Keep hands clean with antimicrobial soap, or use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available. Be sure to scrub around and underneath fingernails.

Moisturizer
If you use a daily moisturizer to prevent or treat dry skin on your hands, don't neglect your nails when applying. Instead, rub some into your cuticles and fingernails to help keep them from drying out.
SimplyMedical offers products to help keep your fingernails clean and well-manicured. Nail care may seem like an afterthought, but it's an essential part of taking care of yourself and living your best life.