Importance of Manicures and Pedicures: Taking Care of Your Nails

Many people overlook the importance of manicures and pedicures. Many consider it unnecessary. But nail care directly impacts our health. Learn the importance of manicures and pedicures here. 

Importance of Manicures and Pedicures

Getting a manicure (manicure) and a pedicure (feet) from time to time has a lot of benefits. Your fingernails and toenails act as a barrier that protects the tissues on your fingers and toes. It is one of the defenses against bacterial and fungal infections.

Here are more reasons why you should invest in manicures and pedicures.

Removes dry skin

Professionally done manicures and pedicures include scrubbing and scraping off dead dry skin especially on the soles of the feet. Nourished and exfoliated feet crack less in dry temperatures, preventing fissures and infections. Regular exfoliation also minimizes foot odor. 

Buffing improves blood circulation

Buffing or the act of polishing and rubbing the nails using fine-grit makes your nails look shiny and healthy. Buffing also promotes blood circulation in the nail bed, encouraging nail growth.

In addition, buffing is a great way to achieve shiny nails without the use of nail polish. But buffing too often or too vigorously is dangerous. It can weaken and thin your nails. Thus, it should be done only once a month. 

Massage benefits

Most mani-pedi treatments include a massage. Massaging your hands and feet not only promotes relaxation but also improves blood circulation. This promotes faster healing (especially if you have cuts) and encourages new skin growth.

Prevents infections

Our hands and feet are always exposed. It easily comes in contact with chemicals, dirt and pollution, which makes it prone to bacterial, fungal and even viral infections.

Getting a mani-pedi treatment reduces the chances of bacterial and fungal growth on the nails. Bacterial and fungal infections on the nails can cause a lot of discomfort and, in some cases, it can also be crippling.

Early detection of health problems

Our nails give clues to our overall health. By looking at the nails, we can detect many medical conditions such as anemia, lung disease, and skin problems. A professional nail technician is trained to spot these signs and they can advise you to seek medical attention immediately.

Considerations Before Getting a Mani-Pedi

Getting a manicure and pedicure is generally safe but if it is done wrong, it can pose health problems. If you have plans of going to a salon for your manicure-pedicure appointment, make sure you do a quick inspection.

Sanitation and safety

Check if your nail technician has the necessary license or experience required. Check if the stations are sanitized and cleaned.

It is also advised to bring your tools. If you don’t have your own tools, make sure that the tools, foot baths, and filters that will be used are thoroughly disinfected. Contaminated tools can cause viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.

Avoid if you have active sores

Do not get a mani-pedi if you have any open wounds. Cuts, rashes or wounds will expose you to bacteria.

It is even advised to shave your legs only after getting a pedicure. Shaving before the procedure increases your risk of getting infections.

If you have or are prone to certain skin conditions, consult your dermatologist first before getting a manicure or pedicure.

Nail Care at Home

If you are doing your manicure or pedicure on your own, do some research on the proper techniques and best practices.

Best practices include:

• Cutting nails straight across
• Avoid forcefully pushing back cuticles
• Do not cut cuticles
• Avoid “digging out” ingrown toenails

Nail health is not just about getting a manicure and pedicure but it is also about taking care of your nails daily.

• Keep your hands and feet moisturized especially during dry weather.
• Do not bite your nails but trim them often so that they don’t accumulate grime that might cause infections.

Key Takeaways

Do not ignore the importance of manicures and pedicures. A mani-pedi is essential to keeping our nails, hands, and feet healthy. How often you should get a manicure and pedicure depends on your lifestyle. It is advised to include a mani-pedi in your self-care regimen at least once a month.

Learn more about Nail Care here.