Nails are made from keratin, the same protein that makes the hair and skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nail growth is affected by several factors. Women's nails grow more quickly during pregnancy, and everyone's nails grow faster in the summer than in the winter. Taking good care of your nails and watching out for potential problems can help you to have long, healthy nails.
Don't Bite or Pick
Biting your nails can damage your nails, break the skin around your nails and spread infection. Picking at cuticles can have similar repercussions. The American Academy of Dermatology recognizes that nail-biting is a difficult habit to break, and offers a few suggestions to help you kick the habit. Suggestions include applying nail polish, rubbing on unpleasant-tasting liquids designed to discourage nail biting and, when appropriate, seeking counseling for anxiety or a compulsive disorder.
Clean, Dry and Moisturize
The Mayo Clinic recommends keeping nails clean and dry for optimal nail health and growth. Wash your hands regularly, and use a nail brush or nail file to clean under the nails. This can inhibit bacterial growth. Toenails and artificial nails are prone to nail fungus because they are often moist, providing a fertile breeding ground for fungi. Dry nails thoroughly after washing, and wear rubber gloves when performing chores such as cleaning and washing dishes. When you moisturize your hands, rub some lotion into your nails as well, suggests the Mayo Clinic.
Keep Nails Trimmed
Trim your nails straight across, and use a fine-grit emery board to keep them smooth. The Mayo Clinic states that one of the best times to trim your nails is after bathing or soaking, when the nails are soft. Round the edges of fingernails slightly to improve the strength of the tips. Do not cut into the corners of your toenails, and if you end up with an ingrown toenail, do not try to dig it out; see your doctor for treatment if it is painful or swollen.
Watch for Problems
Most of the time, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, injuries to the nail are minor and will resolve on their own with good nail care. If you notice discoloration, swelling or pain in your nails, see your doctor. Other abnormalities to watch for and report to your doctor include a white or black line on the nail, or ridges or dents in a nail. Changes in the color of the nail bed can indicate health problems, and should be checked by a health care professional. Pale nail beds, for example, may indicate anemia, and red nail beds could point to heart problems. If you are diabetic, see your physician immediately if you notice any problems with your nails, as these could be a sign of circulation problems.
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