A sign of your lifestyle

What do healthy nails look like?

Healthy fingernails reflect a person’s lifestyle, care habits and even their diet – and they are free of discoloration, thickening or signs of nail fungus. A healthy nail is slightly arched, pale pink in colour and has a smooth, even surface with no cracks, spots or dents. A closer look reveals this quickly.

Typical features also include a natural, slightly matte sheen and the so‑called lunula, a whitish half‑moon at the base of the nail that varies in prominence by finger and person. Strength and elasticity go hand in hand. Healthy nails are firm but not brittle. They can bend slightly without immediately splitting.

Even small ridges are not a reason to panic, by the way, as they often occur naturally and are usually harmless. The overall impression is much more important. Nails should be well cared for, resilient and free of signs of dryness or inflammation of the surrounding cuticle. Paying attention to these signs makes it easy to see whether the body is in balance, because attractive nails are often the first visible sign of internal well‑being.

Why do nails need regular care?

Whether typing, cleaning, cooking or frequent hand washing – nails have to cope with a lot every day. Particularly aggressive cleaning agents, nail polish and removers strip them of moisture, so over time they become dry and brittle. Without targeted care they quickly lose their healthy shine and resilience.

How to care for thin, flexible nails?

Thin nails can make everyday life difficult – even though they often look well kept. But behind the delicate surface there is often a real problem: lack of moisture, nutrient deficiencies or the use of overly aggressive products.

Brittle nails can be effectively countered with a few targeted measures. One important point is the use of a non‑acetone nail polish remover, as it is noticeably gentler and dries the nails out less. Equally important is to give nails a regular break from polish and remover so they can regenerate.

It is better to file nails rather than cut them. A gentle file avoids unnecessary stress and protects the nail structure. Another important factor is nutrition. Vitamins such as A and biotin as well as minerals like zinc and iron are real boosters for nails. You find more of them in carrots, oats, spinach or lentils, for example. Drinking water is essential too. Two to three litres daily help not only the skin but also keep nails elastic and supple.

Stop brittle nails – can the right diet help?

What we eat leaves traces not only on the scales or in our face but also on our nails. If they suddenly split, tear or become noticeably soft, such nail problems can be a quiet cry for help from the body.

Especially with brittle nails, it is worth taking a close look at your diet. Vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium and biotin are real powerhouses for healthy, resilient nails. Regularly eating carrots, avocados, oats or even lemon juice strengthens your nails from the inside – and incidentally also benefits skin and hair.

Vitamin C, for example from citrus fruits, supports iron absorption. Iron is crucial for good blood circulation to the nail matrix. As a result, nails grow back stronger and nail growth is stimulated.

Can nail enhancements damage the natural nail?

Many worry that their nails might suffer under a gel or acrylic enhancement. But that is unfounded: if the enhancement is performed professionally, the natural nail suffers no damage.

Before applying the material it is important to gently degrease the nails and slightly matte them. This step ensures good adhesion of gel or acrylic without harming the nail. The nail is not filed away or “taken off”; it is merely prepared.

Problems usually arise when work is done improperly, for example by filing too aggressively, using low‑quality products or forcefully removing the enhancement. If you rely on a qualified nail technician, there is no need to worry. The natural nail remains healthy and intact, even under a perfectly applied layer.

Shorten nails: nail scissors, clippers or file?

The answer depends on both the nail type and the desired result.

Nail scissors are a classic for precise work. They are particularly suitable for soft to normal nails and allow targeted shaping. After cutting, the nail edges should always be filed to seal fine cracks. The cuticle should not be handled with nail scissors; there are special skin scissors for that.

The nail clipper is especially suitable for harder nails. It brings even firm nails into shape quickly, practically and effortlessly. One disadvantage is, however, that the edges often become uneven and need to be refined. In addition, it is difficult to shape the nails individually with it. If you want to shorten them quickly, this is the right tool; if you want fine contours, it is less suitable.

The nail file is the secret weapon for anyone who values precision and gentle care. Glass files with a fine grit are particularly recommended for brittle or sensitive nails. They remove nail material gently without damaging the structure and seal the nail edge directly while filing. It is important to always work in one direction to minimise the risk of cracks.

Ideally all three tools are at hand, because with the right combination nails are perfectly cared for – whether for everyday life or the perfect manicure.

Which nail polish remover is good for nails?

Many conventional nail polish removers contain acetone. This intense solvent does remove any colour reliably, but it also dries out the nails and surrounding skin extremely. As a result, the nails’ natural protective film is destroyed, they become brittle, cracked and lose their shine.

If you want to do your nails a favour, reach for a non‑acetone remover. These are noticeably gentler and often enriched with nourishing ingredients such as biotin, silicon or tea tree oil. They remove polish thoroughly without drying the nails out and at the same time provide important nutrients. This is a game‑changer especially for sensitive, thin or already damaged nails.

So‑called natural removers that are free from problematic substances like toluene or methyl ethyl ketone are becoming increasingly popular. They convince not only with better skin tolerance but also with their environmental friendliness.

Nail care tips: how to strengthen your nails sustainably and visibly

• Use a non‑acetone remover. Acetone can dry your nails out badly and destroy the protective lipid layer. A remover without acetone is much gentler and often contains nourishing oils or vitamins. This way you remove polish residue thoroughly without damaging your nails.
• File your nails – rather than cutting them. Cutting often creates tiny cracks that can later tear. With a glass file or fine grit file you shape them gently and smooth the edges at the same time. Always file in one direction – this protects the nail structure.
• Care for your cuticles instead of cutting them. The cuticle is a natural barrier against germs and should not be removed. Soak your hands in warm water before a manicure and gently push back the cuticle with a cuticle stick. This keeps it intact and well cared for.
• Moisturise your hands and nails regularly. After every hand wash and especially before bed you should use a nourishing hand cream. Your nails will benefit too – they remain elastic, resilient and are less likely to split. Creams with urea, glycerin or panthenol are ideal.
• Wear gloves when doing household chores. Dish soap, cleaning agents and hot water take their toll on nails every day. With a pair of breathable rubber gloves you protect not only your skin but also your nails from drying out.
• Treat your nails regularly with nail oil. It is a real relief for dry and brittle nails. Massage it gently into the plate and cuticle in the evening. This promotes circulation and strengthens the nails in the long term.
• Give your nails a break from gel nails. Even though gel nails look nice – the natural nail needs recovery periods. Refrain from enhancements from time to time and strengthen your nails with mineral‑rich treatment polishes or a high‑quality nail hardener to consolidate the natural structure. That way your nails remain healthy and load‑bearing in the long term.
• Pay attention to your diet. Healthy nails are created from within. Eat protein‑rich foods such as legumes and nuts as well as fruits and vegetables rich in biotin, zinc and iron. These nutrients promote strength, growth and long‑term nail health.
• Drink enough water. Good fluid intake is not only important for your skin – nails benefit too. Dry nails are more brittle and split more easily. Two litres of water a day is an easy recipe for better nails.
• Avoid frequent polishing without a base coat. Coloured polish can stain or dry out nails – especially dark shades. Always use a base coat as a protective layer. This protects your nails from stains and makes the polish last longer.
• Have a nourishing hand bath regularly. A warm hand bath with proven home remedies such as milk, honey or olive oil cares for skin and nails alike. It softens the cuticle and prepares the nails perfectly for a manicure. It is also a pleasant break.
• Buff your nails for a natural shine. If you don’t wear polish, a buffing file can provide a natural shine. The surface is smoothed, small ridges disappear and nails look immediately more groomed. But don’t buff too often to avoid thinning the nail plate.
• Don’t keep your nails too short. Nails cut too low can injure the sensitive nail bed. Always leave about one millimetre of free edge. This keeps the nail stable and protected.
• Use a ridge filler for uneven nail surfaces. Longitudinal or transverse ridges are often harmless but can make applying polish difficult. A ridge filler smooths the nail surface and ensures an even finish. It also improves the adhesion of coloured polish.
• Clean your nails gently with a soft brush. Avoid hard tools under the nail. Instead use a soft nail brush to gently remove dirt. This prevents injuries and ensures hygienically groomed nails.

Healthy nails are not a matter of chance but the result of conscious care and a mindful attitude towards your body. Whether it’s moisture, protection from chemicals or a nutrient‑rich diet – small everyday changes make a big difference. Those who give their nails regular attention will be rewarded with strength, shine and a well‑groomed appearance down to the fingertips.