Healthy nails beneath the holiday sparkle

As holiday parties and reunions approach, nail art offers another way to complete a festive look. Gel polish, dip powder, acrylic extensions, magnetic designs and embellishments have expanded the options beyond French tips and glossy colors. But beneath the colors, chrome accents and gemstone flowers, natural nails still need care, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reminds beauty enthusiasts. “What may look pretty on the surface may be covering an entirely different story underneath. Our nails can provide us with clues and hints about our health as a whole,” said dermatologist Sharon Osmena Lim. Changes in nail color, texture, shape and strength can point to nutritional deficiencies, infections and possibly cancer, she explained, and may require further attention. Healthy nails feel smooth and strong and appear uniformly pink with white tips. Unusual changes should not be overlooked. Brittleness or easy breakage may have several causes, including poor nutrition, fad diets, decreased circulation or trauma from excessive manipulation during manicures and pedicures. Exposure to harmful chemicals, including those in nail polish and cuticle removers, can also contribute to brittle, discolored nails. Lim also cautioned against excessive removal of the nail, traumatic removal of ingrown nails and excessive trimming of the cuticle, which protects the nails. Yellowish or discolored nails may...