According to Kids Health, hair and nails are actually a type of modified skin, which is the largest organ in the human body. Nails help protect the ends of toes and fingers, while hair can help keep a person warm because of its insulating properties on the head. Nails can be an indication of someone's general health, because illness can affect their growth, and there are things that can be done to keep hair and nails healthy.
Healthy Nails
Nails are composed of layers of keratin, which is a type of protein. They grow from the area at the base of the nails, under the cuticle. As new cells form, they push out toward the end of the finger and harden. Healthy nails have smooth surfaces that are free of ridges or grooves. The color is uniform throughout the nail, and different parts of the nail have the same consistency. Healthy nails do not have spots or areas of discoloration.
Keeping Nails Healthy
Nails should not be abused by prodding and poking at objects. Cuticles should not be picked at, and nails should not be bitten or chewed. Nails should be kept dry and clean, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria or fungi under them. Rubber gloves should be used when the hands will be immersed in water and soap for extended periods of time. Hangnails should be clipped, not pulled. Shoes that fit properly can help prevent toenails from growing into skin. Moisturizers can help prevent nails from becoming brittle.
Special Nail Precautions
Nails should be kept short with squared ends, slightly rounded on top. Nail polish helps to keep moisture in the nails. If nail polish remover is used, it should not contain acetone, which tends to dry the nail, drawing out the nail's moisture.
Healthy Hair Appearance
Healthy hair is hair that has not been damaged and has the right balance of moisture. When hair becomes damaged, it can develop breaks. These can be breaks in the shaft or split ends. Also, hygiene habits can cause hair to be overly dry, which can give hair a frizzy appearance.
Keeping Hair Healthy
Avoiding overexposure to sunlight helps to keep hair healthy. The ultraviolet rays in sunlight work to break down the proteins in hair, weakening them and making it easier for hair to become dry. Limiting exposure to salt water helps keep hair healthy, especially in the presence of sunlight. Saltwater and sunlight has a bleaching effect on hair. Avoiding the chlorine that is present in swimming pools helps to keep hair healthy. Chlorine is a bleaching agent and weakens hair. Excessive blow drying and brushing also can cause damage to hair.
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