Cutting nails correctly is important for hygiene and also to avoid problems. In addition, different treatment is needed for toenails, fingernails and baby and children’s nails.
No one disagrees that cutting nails is extremely important for hygiene and, above all, for health. However, this process cannot be done anyway. There are specific techniques for cutting toenails, fingernails and baby nails.
In other words, the important thing is not just to cut, but to cut in the right way. Because if your nails are cut incorrectly, problems will arise.
The most common problem is ingrown toenails. It causes almost unbearable pain, pus and swelling. Anyone with an ingrown toenail may have trouble putting on shoes and being in crowded places. In addition to an ingrown toenail, the wrong cut can also cause painful and unsightly wounds.
Therefore, learn the main precautions and also the step-by-step guide on how to cut nails so you never make a mistake again.
Step by step to cut nails
Toenails
Toenails are the most ingrown and cause pain. So, be very careful when cutting them.
- First, take a foot bath or cut after taking a bath. This is because the nails will be more malleable and cutting will be easier.
- Then, be careful to cut your nails straight, without curves and without cutting the corners. This avoids irregular edges and, consequently, chances of jamming.
- Also, use a cutter designed for the feet, as this will make cutting easier and leave it as straight as possible. In fact, make sure your nail clippers are clean and sterilized;
- Finally, always file your nails after cutting. However, be careful not to apply too much force and cause injury.
In this explanatory video, you will be able to see how to cut your toenails correctly, as well as follow our instructions!
Fingernails
Fingernails are very sensitive. Therefore, cutting them correctly prevents them from breaking or becoming irregular.
- As fingernails are more sensitive, you can start by choosing whether you prefer to soak them before cutting.
- Furthermore, the correct pliers for cutting have a rounded tip and a thicker cutting edge.
- When cutting, cut a little larger so that there is something left over when sanding. Otherwise, it will be smaller than you would like.
- Regarding the shape, the ideal is to leave it straight, square.
- If you want to round it, do this when sanding. To do it right, pass the sandpaper from one side to the other in a horizontal direction.
Children’s and baby nails
Taking care of babies’ and children’s nails is a little more difficult. After all, they are much smaller, sensitive and, therefore, more difficult to cut.
To begin with, it’s best to cut your fingernails once or twice a week, as they grow very quickly and can be scratchy. Regarding toenails, the frequency can be once or twice a month.
Also, use sandpaper, cutters or scissors made for babies!
Anyway, after knowing all this, it’s time for the step by step.
- First, find a quiet place so that the baby or child does not become agitated.
- Then, find a position where he is comfortable and where you can hold his hands or feet.
- Then, press the tip of your finger down – as if you were going to separate the skin from the nail – and make a straight cut.
- It is important that you do not cut too close and smooth the edges with sandpaper, as this will avoid the risk of inflammation.
Important precautions
Finally, we have separated some important precautions to help you when cutting your nails.
1- Use strengthening nail polish
Strengthening nail polishes prevent toenails and fingernails from breaking and becoming uneven. Because there is nothing worse than having weak and brittle nails.
2- Clean your hands and feet before cutting
Cleaning your hands and feet prevents the action of any bacteria that can cause infection. In other words, you are much safer so that there are no problems.
3- Choose the right tool to cut
Always test and find the type of cutter that is ideal for you. There are conventional clippers, manicure scissors and nail pliers.
By following these tips, you will certainly have beautiful nails and you will be able to innovate and use all your creativity to choose new colors and shapes.
Did you like the content? Then be sure to check out Black Decorated Nails: 70 inspirations for your next manicure.
Sources: Cordvida, Soumamãe, Unhex, Folha
Images: Fortissima, How to do your nails, Grão de gente, Vix, Blog Saúde
