How often do you wash your hands — daily, hourly, or more? Did you know that it’s possible to over wash your hands1? It’s true!
While washing your hands is a great way to help get rid of germs and maintain good hygiene, it’s important to remember that every time you wash your hands you run the risk of stripping away the natural oils that help to keep your fingernails and cuticles hydrated1.
Additionally, when your hands are submerged in water your nail cells become saturated — causing them to swell. However – unless they are coated with an occlusive moisturizer – this water can be quickly lost, leaving your nails drier than they were prior to you washing them2.
How to keep your nail beds from drying out
While there is little in the way of medical data showing that moisturizing your nails will help them grow, doing so can help make your cuticles look better, and may also help protect your nails from cracking due to a lack of moisture3. In addition, moisturizing your nails can also help prevent your nails from splitting and/or becoming weak, brittle, or fragile.
Petroleum jelly, vitamin E, and other moisturizing agents are all hydrating ingredients that can help your nails maintain proper moisture levels4. When searching for the right product(s) to help keep your nails hydrated, looking for products that contain these ingredients can help you narrow your search. Plus, your physician or pharmacist can help you select the right product(s) if you’re unsure which is best for you.
References:
- (February 18, 2015). A Sneaky Downside to Washing Your Hands. Retrieved March 16, 2016 from http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/sneaky-downside-washing-your-hands
- The New York Times. (April 6, 2006). New Ways to Moisturize Those Brittle Nails. Retrieved March 16, 2016 from http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/06/fashion/thursdaystyles/06skin2.html?_r=0
- (December 16, 2006) A Dozen Tips for More Beautiful Nails [Healthy Beauty Blog]. Retrieved March 16, 2016 from http://www.webmd.com/beauty/nails/more-beautiful-nails-a-dozen-tips
- (November 9, 2012). Softer Hands, Stronger Nails. [Healthy Beauty Blog]. Retrieved March 16, 2016 from http://www.webmd.com/beauty/advances-skin-care-9/hands-fingernails
INDICATION
Nuvail™ (poly-ureaurethane, 16%) NAIL SOLUTION is indicated for managing signs and symptoms of nail dystrophy, i.e., nail splitting and nail fragility, for intact or damaged nails. Nuvail coats and adheres to the nail surface preventing direct abrasion and friction on the nail surface while also providing protection against the effects of moisture.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not apply directly to deep, open, or profusely bleeding wounds. Product is flammable in liquid form; avoid using near open flames and sources of ignition. Use in a well-ventilated area.
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature away from heat. Do not allow product to come into contact with floors, counter tops, furniture or other finished surfaces – will stain. May temporarily sting upon application. Persons sensitized to isocyanate should not use this product. Should redness or other signs of irritation appear, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/default.htm or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Click here for Full Prescribing Information.