My Top 6 Benefits of giving yourself(or a loved one) a manicure and pedicure.

Ordering your own Manicure and Pedicure kit not only provides you a cheaper and more convenient alternative to the hassle and inconvenience of traveling to your nearest nail salon or nail bar, but it also offers you several often overlooked benefits. While the usual intent is to have perfect finger and toenails, the overall health and wellbeing advantages arguably far outweigh just having “Cosmetically Beautiful” nails beds and cuticles.

So what are the benefits of a personal Manicure and Pedicure for yourself or a loved one?

  1. It will improve the overall health of your nails

Your fingernails and toenails are composed of layers of Keratin, which is a tough protein that grows from the base of your nail, this area is known as the matrix – which is under your cuticles. The nail or “Nail Plate” should be smooth and free from cracks or grooves.

Now, inspect your nails. I mean really take a close look. Do you see ridges, dents, hangnails, cracking, splintering or fracturing? Do you have an ingrown nail or had problems in the past? The good news is All of these conditions can be avoided by regular nail care. Manicures and pedicures remove dead skin cells and promote new cell growth, overtime this ultimately makes our nails stronger and far healthier.

2. Cleanliness and Personal Presentation

Let’s face it, no one likes having dirty and unhealthy looking nails. It looks disgusting and can be very off-putting, particularly while in public or eating with others. Frankly, it can be embarrassing and a reflection of your overall body cleanliness. Others will judge you and just assume if your nails are dirty and poorly maintained, then you’re probably not hygienically looking after the rest of your body either.

3. Hygiene and Health Factors

Where all taught from a young age to regularly wash our hands throughout the day to avoid the spreading of germs to others and lessen the chances of getting sick. But, how many of us consider that actually, it’s the space under and around our fingernails which often harbor far more bacteria than anywhere else on our feet or hands.

I stumbled across an interesting article, titled “What lives under your fingernails”, which is a short but great little read.

4. Fungus and Infections

It goes without saying that any fungus or infection is better to be prevented in the first place than having to be subsequently treated. And one of the best ways to prevent this happening is by trimming your nails short and reducing the buildup of debris under and around your nails. Other preventative measures include washing and moisturizing your hands and feet regularly, always ensuring you use sterilized Manicure and Pedicure tools, never sharing tools with others before first sterilizing, and filing and smoothing the edges of your nails after trimming and cutting.

Sets are relatively cheap so buy one for your partner, family or friends. They make a great gift and guaranteed to be appreciated, and most importantly, something EVERYONE will use.

5. Setting an example to your peers, children or partner.

Setting a good hygienic example is of course very important to your children, who are easily influenced by the world around them. As a parent, your actions and attitudes will be observed and mimicked by your kids as they grow. Equally, your peers and partner will appreciate and respect you for maintaining not only your finger and toenails but your overall health and hygiene.

6. Destressing and bonding

Finally, taking the time out to regularly pamper yourself or a loved one is a de-stressing, rejuvenating and a bonding experience. Helping others care for their nails is satisfying and physical touch promotes connections and brings about a sense of comfort and happiness. The elderly are more prone to nail fungus and infection and further complications. Perhaps a perfect excuse to pay nana and pops a visit for a relaxing manicure and pedicure!