Welcome to Menopause Minute | Issue No 8 | Girl, take care of those nails!
In the last few weeks we’ve talked about the many ways low estrogen can wreak havoc on the body.
Low estrogen can cause irregular heartbeat, bladder changes, hot flashes, insomnia and headaches.
Sadly, the buck doesn’t stop there. Low estrogen can also lead to brittle and unhealthy nails making them vulnerable to discoloration, dents and ridges.
(Both hands raised here).
I’ve only recently begun to feel self-conscious about my nails—some days more than others.
And as trivial as fingernails may seem, when you couple that with all of the other undesirable changes brought about my menopause, and you’ve got one hot mess on your hands!
So, as I’m working through the phases of the menopause process, I’ve come to realize that I need to spend more time on self-care acts.
So I’m now doing things like slathering on lotion right after I shower (something I used to be able to skip), and paying more attention to those tips and toes.
With that said, today you’ll find some expert tips to caring for your nails during the menopause phase of life.
1. Soften your nails before trimming
I have to come clean: I had no idea there was a good reason behind soaking your nails. I thought it was just an additional way to make you feel pampered. But the rationale for soaking your nails before trimming them is that it softens the nails making them easier to cut.
Embarrassingly I admit, it was my dad who set me straight on that one.
2. Keep your nails clean and dry
According to the Mayo Clinic, keeping your nails clean and dry prevents bacteria from growing underneath your fingernails.
Prolonged contact with water can also contribute to split fingernails. So whenever possible be sure to wear cotton-lined rubber gloves, especially when using harsh chemicals and dry your hands and nails fully after washing.
I’ve experimented with this idea and it makes a noticeable difference.
3. Cut nails straight across
I feel like this is what everyone REALLY wants to know: should I cut my nails straight across, or with a rounded edge?
This was harder to narrow down that you might think.
When I asked around it seemed this one had the experts divided. Half said straight across, half said rounded.
So I decided it was best to my cues from the American Academy of Dermatology.
They said “Cutting your nails straight across helps keep them strong, and prevents them from snagging on things.”
So there you have it.
4. Don’t cut or peel your cuticles
The experts say the cuticle is there to protect the nail. So cutting or pulling on those cuticles can lead to big problems like bleeding or infection. So don’t do it!
5. Do not use your nails as a tool
I know it’s tempting but don’t do it. Don’t pop open cans or scrape food off of dishes (been there, done that). That’s how nails chip and break.
The following are a few of my favorite cuticle tamers.
This oil can be used on anything. I use it on my nails, hair, breakouts and dry skin. It’s chemical-free and chock-full of natural goodness that makes this multitasker one of my beauty, skin and nail care faves.
Butter London
This is another fave of mine when it comes to my nails. They have a cuticle balm, nail scrubbers and the nail polishes are exceptional. Check them out. Also, keep an eye on viewyourdeal.com because they often partner with butter London and I don’t know about you but I love a good deal.
Olive oil. Avocado oil. Coconut oil
The odds are you have some of these healthy oils in your kitchen right now. I use them, too. It’s all about what I have on hand and sometimes what’s closest to me.
Well that’s a wrap for now, friends. If you like the tips you’ve read here, please, tweet, post share and subscribe.
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The Lifestyle Brief 