Table of Contents
This guide applies to both fingernails and toenails.
Just as we groom our hair and beard, same should apply to our nails too.
Nail grooming is one major step to keeping a good hygiene, not only does a neatly trimmed fingers nails look great and beautiful but also less likely to harbor dirt and bacteria which contributes to bacteria infection. So, to avoid a dirt-free and neatly manicured nails (both fingernails & toenails) we’ve compiled a guide on how to cut your nails like a pro, effortlessly, with a neat finish.
Step 1. Soften Your Nails.
Before you begin trimming your nails, it’s recommended you soak them in a lukewarm water to soften them. This will also soften your cuticles and prep your nails for clipping making them easier to trim. You can as well leverage the opportunity of cutting your nails immediately after taking your shower.
How to do it.
- Get a bowl of warm water (not hot).
- Dip in both fingers nails and toenails for 3 mins.
- Dry your nails with a clean towel and get ready for clipping.
You can as well wash your hands and feet using a gentle cleanser with a lukewarm water to prep your nails for clipping.
Step 2. Gather The Right Tools.
You can choose to use a nail clipper or manicure scissors, depending on your personal preference.
- Nail clippers are sharp, flexible and more efficient for cutting the nails, they give you the total control and measure while clipping your nails making trimming more easier and fast.
- manicure scissors are convenient to use too. They give you the control to clip your nails to your desired length. Although you may need more finesse to trim your nails with manicure scissors as it needs more expert skill — which may not be recommended for a newbie. Manicure scissors are more suitable for clipping toenails as the nail on the toes are more thicker compared to fingersnails.
Step 3. Sanitize Your Tools.
This is very important. Whatever nail-clipping tool you chose ensure they are well disinfected before proceeding with clipping your nails.
- Dip a soft toothbrush in a rubbing alcohol or hospital grade spirit.
- Using the soaked toothbrush scrub over the sharp edges of your clipping tools to clean off bacteria and germs.
- After usage, rinse the tools in hot water and dry them completely before putting them away. Store in a cool dry place.
Preparing To Cut or Trim Your Nails.
Step 4. Start Trimming Your Fingernails.
Trim your fingernails, by cutting almost straight across the nail.
- Using a nail-clipper maintain a firm grip and cut straight across when trimming your fingersnails to avoid ingrown nails.
- Trim your nails straight across, then round the tips in a gentle curve to leave a neat manicured nails.
Trimming Toenails.
Toenails are thicker than fingernails.
Use the same strategy that you used for your fingernails. Rather this time you may need to use a manicure scissors instead which will be more efficient for clipping your toenails.
- While holding your manicure scissors maintain a firm grip.
- Trim your nails straight across then round the tips in a gentle curve to your desired length.
5. Consider Filing Your Nails After Cutting Them.
File your nails to smoothen uneven or rough edges using a nail file or emery board. Always file the nail in the same direction, as filing back and forth can weaken your nails.
Filing your nails gives them the desired shape plus smooth surface and prevents them from breaking or splitting.
- File your nails into a round, square, or rounded-square shape.
- Run over each nail with a slightly abrasive buffer to even out the surface of your nails.
When you file your nails, make sure they are dry and file them only in one direction
6. Leave Your Cuticles Alone.
Some individuals form the habit of cutting off their cuticles. This can lead to a disaster. Cuticles protect the nail root. it helps seals and protect the area at the base of your nail from bacteria infections.
So, when the cuticle is picked or cut off you’re definitely leaving your nail volunreable to bacteria infection through the open skin. So it’s important to avoid cutting your cuticles.
7. Don’t Forget To Moisturize Your Nails.
It’s important you moisturize your nails on daily basis. Not only does it keep your nails hydrated and moist but also increase circulation to the skin around your nails to keep it healthy and prevent it from cracking and peeling away as dry nails splits more when the air is dry or the weather is harsh.
Apply a moisturizing lotion, almond oil or coconut oil on your finger and toenails.
Apply with a gentle massage focus more on your cuticles.
This will increase blood circulation around your nails and keeps them hydrated.
Possible Questions & Answers.
Q: Can I cut my nails with a regular scissors?
A: No. It is too dangerous to use other sharp cutting tools such as knives, razor blades, or regular scissors to trim your nails. The tool may slip and injure the skin surrounding the nail.
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