nail myths.... BUSTED!

Throughout our lives we are told many tidbits from generations before us.. Carrots make you see better, breadcrusts make your hair curly, if the wind changes you'll stay like that!

There is a myth for every occassion and nail care is no exception.. allow me to bust open everything you thought you knew!

1. White spots = Vitamin deficiency

White spots on your nail... you must have a calcium deficiency. True?... False!!

And contrary to what your Great Nanna Ruth told you it doesn't mean youre telling lies either.

These white spots are a common condition called leukonychia which is usually caused by mild nail trauma. The white spots you see are small seperations between the nail bed and nail plate. They are nothing to worry about and will grow out with a little time.

2. Nails need to "breathe"

I hate to be the one to tell you this but your nail plate is completely incapable of absorbing oxygen... it is literally DEAD!!! This makes the theory letting your nails breathe 100% a myth.

3. Nail enhancements damage your natural nails

This is one of my favourite myths! Nail enhancements if applied correctly usually won't cause any damage to the natural nail... I say usually because it doesn't matter how well a nail product is applied, if it is removed incorrectly your nails will suffer.

Picking off any nail enhancement product is not recommended!

If you do notice any damage to your nails after nail enahncement removal, all you need to do is to apply a little nail stregthener and cuticle oil. They will be better in no time.

4. Adding acetone to claggy polish will thin it out

You may have heard on the grapevine that adding nail polish remover to clumpy nail polish will restore it to it's former glory. Unfortunately I am here to tell you that those grapes are sour!

Nail polish remover will actually break down the formula of your nail polish causing it to be ineffective. A far superior substitute is to use nail polish thinner.

5. Storing polish in the fridge makes it last longer

I'm not 100% sure where this one came from but I can assure you it's 100% untrue!

Nail polish needs to be stored upright and at room temperature. Keeping it in the fridge will actually cause the polish to thicken and make it harder to get a smooth and even coat.

my top tips for optimum nail health

- moisturise your hands regularly

- Apply cuticle oil daily

- wear gloves! (gardening, dishes, you name it gloves are your bff when it comes to nail health!)

- do not bite or pick at your nails

- do not cut your own cuticles

Stay Awesome & may your nails be everlong!

artemis beauty lounge