A note about manicures and pedicures

If you rely on manicures or pedicures for healthy-looking nails, keep a few things in mind. Go to salons that show a current state license. Work only with technicians also licensed by the state board.

Don't let your cuticles be removed. They seal the skin to the nail plate. So removal can lead to nail infection. Also, make sure the tools your nail technician uses are sterile to prevent the spread of infection. Make sure you're not allergic to any of the ingredients in the products the salon uses.

You also might ask how the foot baths are cleaned. Ideally, the salon uses a disinfectant between clients and cleans the filters often.

It's easy to neglect your nails. But taking some basic steps can keep your fingernails healthy and strong.