The Right Way to Clip Your Nails (2024)

Lippmann stresses that you should never ‘saw’ back and forth on the tip of the nail. “Instead, gently run the file across the nail in one direction, beginning at the outside edge, pull up towards the center and repeat,” she says. “Remember to use gentle motions to prevent breakage.” Lastly, don’t hold the file flush to the nail. You should tilt it slightly back, and file from below the nail. “This allows you to see exactly what you are doing and helps protect against over-filing,” Lippmann says.

5. Tend to the cuticles

Push and clip your cuticles weekly. That's the best way to prevent painful hangnails from developing. Many nail clippers have an attachment that helps uproot excess skin. Very gently pry this skin upward so that it’s easy to trim. “These are theonly pieces of skin that you should nip,” says Lippmann. “The cuticle protects nails from infection, so if cut improperly, it allows bacteria and fungus to infect the nail bed.”

If you’re feeling fancy, you can invest in a cuticle pusher and nipper set, even if it’s just to say you own something called a “nipper”. (It’s gentler than a standard nail clipper, so it might spare you from accidentally clipping too deep into the skin.)

6. Be conservative with hangnails

You’re going to get a hangnail every so often, even if you’ve been proactively tending to your cuticles. When it does happen, only clip the excess skin, stopping at the base of the hangnail. Seriously, stop there.

7. Consider a buff

If you want to be a true pro, you can get a second, gentler file—a buff—to “exfoliate” the top of your nails. This keeps them smooth and removes any abnormalities along the surface of the nail, and results in an even, polished look. Lippmann’s team engineered the Smooth Operator specifically for this task; it has a numbered system for different levels of severity, none of which is as rough as a file. “I like to use side #3 on men, for a more masculine shine,” she says.“It is so gentle that it can be used on a weekly basis for general nail maintenance.”

8. Clean underneath

This should be done daily, not just after cutting the nails. If you can’t pick out any dirt by hand, then take that nail-clipper extension—the cuticle pusher—and gently scrape away anything stuck under there. Don’t overdo it: It’s all too easy to pierce the skin that clings to the nails. (Ouch.)

9. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Apply hand lotion daily, and distribute it to the nails. Do this immediately following any self-administered manicuring, too. Lotion is both an offense and defense: It will keep nails polished and strong, while nourishing any lingering hangnails or freshly nipped cuticles.

10. As a precaution, wear gloves more often

If you’re doing any handiwork, like cleaning the yard or moving heavy boxes, it doesn’t hurt to wear protective utility gloves. “Hangnails and torn cuticles can be an immediate effect of working withyour hands,” says Lippman. “Over time, this will cause hands to age prematurely.” And of course, wear gloves in the cold, dry months.

The Right Way to Clip Your Nails (2024)

FAQs

The Right Way to Clip Your Nails? ›

To trim your fingernails, cut almost straight across the nail. Use a nail file or emery board to slightly round the nails at the corners, as this will help keep them strong and prevent them from catching on things like clothing or furniture.

In which direction we should cut nails? ›

Fingernails should be given a curve, while toenails should be cut straight across, to prevent ingrowth. You can cut a little down the sides of your toenails, especially if you are prone to ingrowing toenails, to take them away from the skin.

Is the proper way to clip toe nails is to cut straight across? ›

It's important to make sure that you cut your toenails straight across, leaving them long enough so that the corners lie loosely against the skin at the sides. In other words, don't trim your toenails too short, don't round the edges, and also don't try to cut the toenails into a pointy V-shape.

Should nails be flat or curved? ›

The Shape of Healthy Nails

A healthy body supports the growth of healthy nails, which should curve to the natural shape of the finger. If you look at the end of your nails you should see a rainbow-type curve, or half-moon shape, if you will.

Should you cut your nails wet or dry? ›

Leave your nails a little long. This will prevent any pain caused by having nails that are too short, and it also prevents the nails from growing up into the skin. Trim your nails when they are dry, not wet. When your nails are wet, they become softer and are more likely to tear or become jagged.

Why should we not cut nails at night? ›

So, in the absence of light, these unhygienic dead skin cells cut from the fingers and toes could contaminate food accidentally or could also get stuck to the clothes. In addition, these dead skins cells could also turn into a home for microorganisms that could cause illness and infections.

Why shouldn't you cut your nails at night? ›

How is cutting nails disrespecting Goddess Lakshmi? It is believed that Goddess Laksmi visits home in the evening to bless the household. Cutting nails in the evening is considered disrespectful to the Goddess. Therefore, it should be avoided at all costs.

Why not cut nails on Tuesday? ›

Tuesday is dedicated to worship Maa Durga and Mahalakshmi in Hinduism. Worshipping them on Tuesdays is supposed to bring luck and money. Tuesday is called Mangal Var or the auspicious day. On auspicious days and on festivals cutting nails and haircut will not be done, as these activities are considered as inauspicious.

What nail shape looks better? ›

Almond shaped nails tend to suit everyone. If you have short palms and short fingers. it's best to opt for rounded oval and almond shapes. For longer palms and fingers, consider dramatic stiletto or coffin (or ballerina) shaped styles.

Why can't you cut your nails on Sunday? ›

Therefore, this day is connected with Lord Surya. In the great epic of Mahabharata, it is stated that cutting nails on Sunday only draws destruction, war, abolition, and demolition. Thus, it is an inauspicious day to cut nails or hair.

Should toenail clippers be straight or curved? ›

Look for toenail clippers with a straight edge. Using a curved tool for your toenails puts you at risk of digging into the tender sides of your nail bed and increases your risk for ingrown toenails. By following these tips, you're well on your way to proper toenail care.

What is the difference between nail cutter and nail clipper? ›

A nail clipper (also called nail clippers, a nail trimmer, a nail cutter or nipper type) is a hand tool used to trim fingernails, toenails and hangnails.

Is it better to use nail clippers or scissors? ›

Scissors make it easier to move around a nail and don't apply as much pressure on nails as clippers or nippers do. They're also better suited to shaping nails ad removing hangnails or snags. Curved and steel instruments are the most effective and most durable.

What is the proper angle for toe nailing? ›

Drive at an angle

Pull the nail to about a 50-degree angle and set it with a couple of hammer taps. Then let go and drive it in. Brace your toe against the back of the board as you set the nail. It's OK if the board moves slightly past the layout line.

How do you trim thick elderly toenails? ›

What's the correct way to trim elderly nails. Preferably when nails are dry try cut them straight across. If nails are extremely thick then try soaking about 10 minutes first. Thick, ingrown, curving nails should always be cut straight across.

How short should toenails be cut? ›

Trim The Nails Too Short or Too Deep

The skin surrounding the nail should not be higher than the toenail as this may cause the nail to grow into the skin instead of on top of it. Rather, the nail should be cut to the edge of the skin and should not be cut deeper than that.

How do you get nice toenails? ›

7 Tips on How to Keep and Get Healthy Toenails
  1. Understand Nail Health.
  2. Let your feet breathe.
  3. Expose feet and nails to the sun.
  4. Remove nail polish and other barriers to the nail bed.
  5. Avoid cotton socks.
  6. Wear shoes that are naturally shaped.
  7. Decrease nail bulk.
  8. Apply topical antifungal creams.

Why are toenails so hard to cut? ›

Age, trauma, and fungus can result in our toenails becoming harder and thicker making them more difficult to cut. There are several tools on the market designed to make this process easier but which ones are best?

How should big toenails be cut? ›

Most people cut their nails back as far as they can and then taper the corners of the nail. Actually, you should cut your toenails straight across. When you have rounded corners, especially when you cut them far back into your nail bed, the toenails can curve downward as they grow out.

What vitamin deficiency causes ingrown toenails? ›

Vitamin B12 - Lack of vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, darkened toenails, and rounded or curved toenails. Vitamin B12 can only be found in animal sources such as liver and kidneys, fish, chicken, and dairy products.

Why do older people's toenails curl? ›

Discussion. The answer is B: onychogryphosis. The condition is characterized by thickened, discolored, severely elongated, curved nails with claw-like deformity (ram's horn nail). Onychogryphosis occurs mostly in older or homeless persons as a result of chronic neglect, trauma, or poor nail care.

When should you not cut your nails? ›

It is advised that you should not cut your nails during sunset and after sunset. It is believed that doing so can upset goddess Lakshmi and it can have an impact on your financial situation. Therefore, try and avoid cutting your nails during or after sunset.

How often should I clip my nails? ›

There is a lot that can be left up to personal preference when it comes to cutting one's nails, but if you want to ensure you don't get stuck in a unhealthy situation, board-certified podiatrist Nelya Lobkova, DPM, and licensed physician Leann Poston, MD, recommend cutting your fingernails every week.

Where do you throw your nails after cutting? ›

Consider clipping your nails into a trashcan or a compost bin.

Why don't the Japanese cut their nails at night? ›

In Japanese culture, the variation is that if you cut your fingernails at night, then it opens up a way for bad spirits to enter your body through the fresh cut in your fingernails. In Japanese folklore, bad spirits are only around at night, so that is why you should not cut fingernails at night.

Why not to cut nails on Thursday? ›

It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi gets upset if men or women wash their hair, trim them or cut their nails. Thursdays are considered to be the day of Laxmi-Narayan and hence getting a haircut or washing them, in addition to cutting your nails and shaving is said to be inauspicious.

Do nails need to breath? ›

Nails don't need surface access to air because they get oxygen and nutrients from your blood. Keeping nails hydrated is important if yours are prone to breakage, and a pause in polishing to moisturize would help.

Is there DNA in your fingernails? ›

Nails contain genomic DNA that can be used for genetic analyses, which is important for large epidemiologic studies that have collected nail clippings at baseline and for future epidemiologic studies that consider collecting nails as a DNA source for genetic analyses.

Which day hair should not be cut? ›

As per Hinduism, Tuesday is the day of Hanuman, we worship Hanuman for divine power & Thursday is the day of Goddess Laxmi. If you cut your hair or nails it is showing disrespect to Hanuman & Goddess Laxmi & this may affect your life.

What is the best day to cut your hair? ›

According to this method, each day of the week is associated with a specific animal and element. The best days for haircuts are considered to be Thursday (associated with the Wood element) and Sunday (associated with the Gold element), as these days are believed to promote healthy hair growth.

Why can't you cut your hair on Saturday? ›

It is believed that cutting or trimming hair on Saturday reduces life by seven months. This belief is very common among Hindus, and hence, most Hindus do not cut hair or nails on Saturday.

What do ridges on fingernails mean? ›

Ridges in nails usually come from aging but can also indicate improper nail care, nail trauma, vitamin deficiency, or even a more pressing medical condition, according to 2022 research.

Will Vaseline soften toenails? ›

Vaseline petroleum jelly is ideal for keeping your heels and toes soft. For added protection, you can even grease your soles with salve before putting your socks on. The results will be amazing, you will have softer feet and cuticles and fewer calluses.

What nail length do guys like? ›

Nails grown barely past your fingertips are the ideal length, says Fisher. They look feminine but won't stop you from, say, unzipping him or sexting. See what else guys really notice about your looks.

What nail color is more attractive? ›

In a representative survey, the Deutsches Lackinstitut (German Paint Institute ) found out that men generally prefer blue, but also like grey, black and brown. Both sexes like green about the same, while women are otherwise more fond of red, yellow, beige and orange.

Which nail shape is most slimming? ›

Best nail shape: Oval. This shape will help make your fingers appear longer and more slender to balance out the length of your palm. File the sides of your nails straight and gently taper the free edge into a semicircle.

Which nail shape makes you look younger? ›

“An oval-shaped nail helps fingers look longer, and in turn, makes hands look younger,” she explains. Another grooming tip from the pro: pay attention to your cuticles! “Be sure to keep your fingers well-manicured,” she says.

When should you cut toenails? ›

Most people's toenails grow about 2 millimeters (0.08 inches) a month, so it's appropriate to cut them every six to eight weeks. That being said, if you are a very active person or an athlete — especially a runner — you will probably be more comfortable if you trim them more often.

Do nails grow when you sleep? ›

Nails grow continuously approximately 0.1 mm per day or 3 mm per month. The rate of nail growth is affected by a number of activities and environmental conditions. For example, during the day and in the summer, nails grow faster than at night or in winter.

What is the superstition about white spots on nails? ›

An old wives' tale on Indian culture says that whenever you see a crane (bird), chant the words “Bagula, bagula chawal de”; to seek blessings from this majestic animal. The resulting grace comes in the form of white spots on our nails that you can see and becomes a sign of good luck.

How often should you get a pedicure? ›

You can get a pedicure once every three to four weeks if you're considering the whole package: massage, scrub, cuticle removal, and all the work. But if it is just simple toenail cleaning, shaping, and painting, it's safe to do it every one to two weeks.

What kind of toenail clippers do podiatrists use? ›

Professional podiatrist toenail clippers are made of high quality surgical grade stainless steel for sharp and durability. Podiatrist tools are very sharp and can cut off any rough edges without pain.

What can you do for thick toenails? ›

How are thick toenails treated?
  1. Clean the affected area with soap and water daily.
  2. Groom your nails regularly. ...
  3. Apply an over-the-counter fungal treatment after you gently file your nails.
  4. Apply Vicks VapoRub on your toenail each day. ...
  5. Apply tea tree oil twice a day every day.

Do nail clippers weaken nails? ›

Cutting fingernails with nail clippers

Fingernail clippers have a curved edge designed to make it easier to trim your nails. They work well, but if dull, they can damage your nails, crushing them each time you cut.

What are slanted nail clippers for? ›

Features. Special slant head, can also be used to cut cuticle Peeling of skin burns tip angle nail clippers, cut the small corner of your nails. The super sharp curved blades contour perfectly around the nails, which ensures you get a smooth and clean cut with less effort, no more jagged edges, cracked nails.

Should I cut my nails wet or dry? ›

Trim your nails when they are dry, not wet. When your nails are wet, they become softer and are more likely to tear or become jagged. Don't cut them in one shot. Instead, make a few small cuts across the nail.

Are straight or curved nail scissors better? ›

A straight trim will help ensure your toenails grow forward as they should. Curved edges provide more opportunity for your nails to grow into your skin instead. If you are concerned about the corners of your nails poking against you or catching on your socks, gently file them down instead of clipping them off.

Should toenails be cut at an angle or down the edge? ›

It's important to make sure that you cut your toenails straight across, leaving them long enough so that the corners lie loosely against the skin at the sides. In other words, don't trim your toenails too short, don't round the edges, and also don't try to cut the toenails into a pointy V-shape.

What is the nailing pattern? ›

What the Heck is a Nailing Pattern? For those who are uninitiated in the world of fasteners, a nailing pattern or fastener schedule is the national, state or regional building code allowances for fastening specific materials.

What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails? ›

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in treating toenail fungus.

How often should an elderly person have their toenails cut? ›

Toenails grow about two millimeters per month, so your loved one may need a trim every six to eight weeks.

What should healthy toenails look like? ›

A healthy toenail is a shade of pale pink, much like your fingernail. Any yellowing or tinges of black color means something is not right. For example, if your toenails become yellow, you probably have a fungal infection. Yellowing can also be the result of smoking or a side effect of diabetes or a liver condition.

Why do my toenails look so bad? ›

Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is one of the most prevalent causes of toenail discoloration. The most common organism to cause toenail fungus is called dermatophyte. However, mold or yeast can also infect toenails. Dermatophytes grow by eating your body's keratin.

What is the best shape for toenails? ›

The best nail shape for toenails is flat across. It's important to avoid cutting the nails round or angled to prevent the formation of ingrown nails.

What is the best way to soften toenails for cutting? ›

Soften your toenails by soaking your feet for 10 minutes in warm water. Dry your feet and toenails with a towel. Now you're ready to trim your toenails. Nail nippers work best.

Why do toenails get thick? ›

Blood circulation is when the small blood vessels in our feet begin to narrow and become thicker, making it harder for the blood to flow. This then causes the nail cells to build up causing the nail to thicken from the nail root. This process is called onychoctes.

What should a normal big toenail look like? ›

Like your fingernail, a healthy toenail is a light pink color. Any yellowing or hints of black hue indicate a problem. For instance, you are most likely to have a fungal infection if your toenails start to become yellow. Yellowing can also be a side effect of diabetes, liver disease, or smoking.

How can I make my big toenail look better? ›

Remove any nail polish. Trim toenails straight across so that some of the white remains. Lightly brush the surface of toenails with a nail buffer or fine grit nail file. Apply some lemon juice with a cotton swab on and around the nail to further remove dead skin and give nails a healthy shine.

Are you not supposed to clip your nails? ›

It's important to trim your nails regularly. Nail trimming together with manicures makes your nails look well-groomed, neat, and tidy. If your nails aren't cut and allowed to grow, dirt and germs can get under them, causing infections.

Why should you file your nails from the corners to the center? ›

Prevents nail damage: Filing from the corners to the center helps to prevent splitting, peeling, and weakening of the nails. This technique ensures that you are filing in one direction, which reduces friction and stress on the nail plate. 2.

Why can't you cut your nails at night? ›

After trimming, the pieces could fall on the floor, and no one would notice because of the dark. Due to no source of light at night, the sharp fragments at night can poke someone and hurt them. There would be no way to cover up the injury as well.

Is it better to cut nails with clippers or scissors? ›

Scissors make it easier to move around a nail and don't apply as much pressure on nails as clippers or nippers do. They're also better suited to shaping nails ad removing hangnails or snags. Curved and steel instruments are the most effective and most durable.

How short should you cut your fingernails? ›

As for nail length, there's a small spectrum of acceptable lengths. You should leave at least a sliver of “white” at the top of your nails—that space where the nail starts to separate from the skin it protects. (One or two millimeters, in our book.)

How often should you trim your fingernails? ›

How often should you clip your fingernails? According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, fingernails grow about 2.5 millimeters each month. If you injure your fingernail and it falls off, it takes about 6 months to grow back. If you want to keep your nails a certain length, trim them once every week or two.

Do clipped nails rot? ›

Nail clippings are made of keratin, a fibrous protein that is naturally occurring. As a result, they will biodegrade and break down in the soil. Microorganisms will then consume the nails and turn them into usable nutrients. The best way to utilize nail clippings is in a compost pile.

What should you never do when using a nail? ›

To prevent nail damage, don't:
  1. Bite your fingernails or pick at your cuticles. These habits can damage the nail bed. ...
  2. Pull off hangnails. You might rip live tissue along with the hangnail. ...
  3. Use harsh nail care products. Limit your use of nail polish remover. ...
  4. Ignore problems.

What is nail slugging? ›

Nail slugging is a two-part process that involves applying cuticle oil to your nails and sealing it with an occlusive like petroleum jelly or hand cream.

Why do nail techs file top of nails? ›

The purpose of filing the nail bed is to remove oil and rough the surface up so that the acrylic is able to properly adhere to the natural nail.

Is it bad to file nails both directions? ›

The sawing, back and forth motion is a huge no-no for shaping your nails. “You should file in one direction from the side of the nail to the center of the nail with short strokes,” says Williams.

Why not to cut nails on Tuesday? ›

Tuesday is dedicated to worship Maa Durga and Mahalakshmi in Hinduism. Worshipping them on Tuesdays is supposed to bring luck and money. Tuesday is called Mangal Var or the auspicious day. On auspicious days and on festivals cutting nails and haircut will not be done, as these activities are considered as inauspicious.

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