ROSEMONT, Ill., Feb. 12, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology are advising the public about a simple yet important self-care routine: nail grooming. Not only do short, well-manicured nails look great, they say, they are also less likely to harbor dirt and bacteria, which can lead to an infection. In addition, the right nail clipping technique can help prevent common issues like hangnails and ingrown toenails.
“Short nails stay cleaner and break less often, which is good for both your appearance and your health,” says board-certified dermatologist and nail specialist Shari Lipner, MD, PhD, FAAD. “Although nail clipping seems pretty straightforward, there are some important steps you should follow to ensure a healthy cut, like disinfecting your tools and leaving your cuticles alone.”
To properly trim your nails, Dr. Lipner recommends the following tips:
“Nails are a reflection of your overall health,” Dr. Lipner says. “Keep an eye on your nails, and if you notice a change in the color, texture or shape of your nail, see a board-certified dermatologist. While some changes are harmless, others could be a sign of a disease, such as melanoma, or an infection, such as a nail fungal infection.”
These tips are demonstrated in “How to Trim Your Nails,” a video posted to the AAD website and YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD’s “Video of the Month” series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the AAD website and YouTube channel each month.
Contacts
Amanda Jacobs, (847) 240-1714, ajacobs@aad.org
More Information
Manicure and pedicure safety
Gel manicures: Tips for healthy nails
How to stop biting your nails
About the AAD
Headquartered in Rosemont, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 20,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at (888) 462-DERM (3376) or aad.org. Follow the AAD on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology), Twitter (@AADskin), Instagram (@AADskin1), or YouTube (AcademyofDermatology).
To view this release in a media-rich format, go to: https://aad.new-media-release.com/2019/how_to_trim_nails/