Well-tended nails say a lot about how well you care for yourself in general.

Who doesn't want a great set of fingers (and toes)? Going to the salon and getting the works is one thing, but what are the steps to caring for those gorgeous nails all week long?  It's not that hard; it just takes attention to detail.

• Do wear a sunscreen during the day on your hands and cuticles to prevent sun damage, which can hurt your nails. Reapply every time you wash your hands.
• Do moisturize the cuticle area to prevent cracking and peeling, which can hurt the matrix.
• Do wear gloves to protect nails and cuticles from damage they receive while doing housework, gardening and washing dishes.
• Do apply hand cream frequently, especially after you've washed your hands, and pay attention to the cuticle area.
• Do be sure that manicurists use sterilized utensils. The importance of this step cannot be stressed enough. Risking your health and well-being for a manicure is just not worth it, and that is a definite possibility with bacteria-laden nail instruments!
• Don't use your fingers as letter openers. That destroys the cuticles, which destroys the nail matrix and affects nail growth and strength.
• Don't use fingernails as tools to pry things open.
• Don't overuse any kind of nail-polish remover. Use a minimal amount on the nail and avoid getting too much on the cuticle and skin.

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