Myths about nail care
Nail care is often surrounded by many misconceptions and myths that, over time, have become ingrained in our daily lives. While some beliefs may seem logical, many are far from based on scientific facts. Let's take a look at what's true and what's myth in the world of nail care.
Myth #1: “Nails need to breathe”
One of the most common myths is the idea that nails need to breathe. Many believe that it's necessary to leave nails "au naturel" to keep them healthy. But the truth is that nails, composed primarily of keratin, don't breathe. Unlike skin, they don't have blood vessels and don't need outside oxygen to "feed" them. The nail is a dead structure, and all the oxygen or nutrients needed come from the bloodstream beneath the nail, not from the outside air.
However, this is no excuse to neglect care. Nails can become brittle or dry due to excessive use of chemicals or insufficient hydration. While they don't need to "breathe," a proper care routine is still essential to maintain their strength and shine.
Myth #2: “Nail polish damages nails”
Some people avoid wearing nail polish, believing it weakens or damages their nails. In reality, nail polish itself isn't harmful to nail health, as long as it's applied and removed correctly. What can cause damage is the overuse of harsh nail polish removers (especially those containing acetone), or removing the polish by hand, which can tear the top layer of the nail.
To protect your nails, it's recommended to use protective base coats before applying nail polish, and always remove it with a gentle nail polish remover. Once the polish is removed, remember to moisturize your nails and cuticles with oils or creams specially designed for hands.
Myth #3: “Cutting cuticles promotes nail growth”
It's common to hear that trimming cuticles stimulates nail growth. In reality, this practice can be more harmful than helpful. Cuticles act as a protective barrier against bacteria and other pathogens, so trimming them exposes your nails and fingers to potential infections.
Instead of cutting them, it's best to gently push them back after a shower or bath, when your skin is more supple. You can also regularly moisturize your cuticles to keep them soft and healthy.
Myth #4: “Consuming gelatin strengthens nails”
Popular belief holds that consuming gelatin strengthens nails, but there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. Nails are made of keratin, a different protein than gelatin. While nail health can be improved by a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals (especially B vitamins, iron, and zinc), consuming gelatin has no direct effect on nail strength.
For stronger nails, focus instead on a diet rich in protein, essential fatty acids and minerals, and ensure good hydration.
Myth #5: “Filing your nails back and forth is safe.”
Many people tend to file their nails back and forth in a back-and-forth motion. However, this technique can actually weaken nails and cause cracks. It's best to file nails in one direction, using a soft file to avoid damaging the nail structure.
Additionally, avoiding overly abrasive files and opting for glass or crystal ones can also help keep your nails healthy.
The Science Behind Nail Care
Nail care isn't just about aesthetics; there are biological and chemical reasons for certain practices. Nails are a mirror of overall health. For example, a deficiency in certain nutrients can manifest itself as brittle, split, or ridged nails. Regular application of moisturizers and strengtheners can play a key role in their health, as nails, although they don't breathe, lose moisture, which can make them dry and brittle.
Finally, wearing gloves when doing household chores, protecting against excessive humidity and using specific oils (such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil) can help strengthen nails by keeping them supple and hydrated.
Conclusion: Demystifying nail care
While nails don't need to be allowed to "breathe," they still require proper care to stay strong and healthy. Adopting a balanced approach that combines protection, hydration, and gentle care is the best way to ensure long-term nail health. By separating fact from fiction, we can care for our nails with greater confidence and effectiveness, without being swayed by outdated myths.