Care for nails during the rains

Nails are among the worst affected parts of your body during monsoon season, and one needs to take extra care of them. They are prone to different fungal and bacteria infections. There are higher chances of developing fungal and bacterial infections. One can also notice the red, swollen and itchy skin around them. All this occurs from overexposure to water or excess sweat, which is a result of the sultry weather. In order to prevent this, follow these tips:

KEEP THEM DRY

Wonder how will this be possible when walking in rainwater-filled puddles is inevitable? As damp environment results in fungal infections, try to avoid anything that will get your feet dirty or wet. Buy a comfortable pair of open footwear or any rainproof shoes that can allow the dirt and water to slip out and ensure ventilation. Refrain from wearing gum boots, leather or vinyl shoes as they tend to store water for longer. Once you are indoors, make sure you clean your dirty and soaked footwear, wash your feet, clean any dirt under your nails and then pat them dry.

DISINFECT YOUR FEET REGULARLY

When your feet stay soaked in the muddy water because of damp shoes, they welcome the bacteria to breed and damage the skin underneath your nails. To prevent the bacteria from growing into an infection, dip your feet in warm saltinfused water for about 10 minutes and wipe the water off. Make it a daily ritual during monsoons.

TRIM YOUR NAILS

Dirt can easily collect beneath long nails. To prevent dirt from getting under your nails, always keep your nails short and clean. When trimming and filing nails, be careful that you do not do excessive chipping or you might end up damaging your nails, giving germs and bacteria a good environment to thrive in.

WATCH OUT FOR DISCOLOURED NAILS

Monsoon can also cause your nails to get discoloured, brittle and rough. Avoid roadside or deep-fried food items. Have more of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those that are loaded with vitamin A and E such as carrots, dark leafy greens, cantaloupe melon,

etc.

GO FOR A MANICURE AND PEDICURE ONCE A WEEK

As nails are prone to discolouration, and getting brittle or rough, during the rainy season, indulge in a mani-pedi session once in a week to keep them healthy and shiny. Instead of going to a beauty parlour, do it at home by putting a few drops of a liquid handwash or shampoo, and some fresh lemon juice in warm water. Soak your hands and feet in the warm water for 15 minutes, and then clean your nails and scrub your feet with a foot scraper. Rinse and apply nail cream. Dr Meghna Gupta, cosmetic dermatologist and director,

Delhi Skin Centre, and ls.