Keeping long nails is harmful for you due to these 5 reasons, know these 5 things before growing nails:
Long nails can cause great harm to your health (long nails side effects). They not only cause trouble to the body in the form of infection but they can also reduce the life of the nails.
Growing nails is not a new trend but an old one. Despite being old, it still remains as a way of styling as it would have been fifty years ago. But with changing times, some precautions are also necessary.
Long nails can cause great harm to your health (long nails side effects). They not only cause trouble to the body in the form of infection but they can also reduce the life of nails. Today we are going to understand about these problems and the ways to avoid them.
1. Risk of infection (long nails side effects)
Dirt can accumulate in long nails, as they easily catch bacteria and germs from the kitchen, bathroom and everywhere. The risk of such infection is less in short nails but these infections can spread quickly in long nails (long nails side effects).
Especially if you don’t keep your hands clean properly. Bacteria can get trapped under long nails, leading to fungal and bacterial infections.
2. Risk of nail breakage (long nails side effects)
Hobbies come with a price. Especially in the styles of your looks. Long nails may look stylish but it can be very difficult to take care of them. If you do not cover your overly long nails, they are at risk of breaking when they hit something or are pulled. Broken nails can also cause pain and sometimes even bleeding under the nails, which is very uncomfortable.
3. Nails can become weak and ugly
When you keep your nails long, sometimes it becomes difficult to take proper care of them. Dirt, cracks or small stripes can appear on long nails, which spoil the quality of the nails. If you have grown your nails too much (long nails side effects), then they can become weak, because there is pressure on the growth of long nails and the risk of them breaking or cracking also increases.
Sometimes, small lines start appearing under the nails which harm their health. Apart from this, not trimming long nails properly can also affect the growth of nails.
4. Pressure on the roots (long nails side effects)
It is very important to trim long nails properly from time to time. If the nails become long and are not trimmed properly, then they start putting pressure on the roots of the nails, which can weaken the roots of the nails. Apart from this, sometimes even doing small tasks puts pressure on the roots. Like you start feeling difficulty while holding a pencil or while writing something.
5. Difficulty in cleaning nails
Cleaning long nails is not that easy. Especially if you allow dirt to get trapped under the nails, then it can be very difficult to clean (long nails side effects). As the nails get longer.
Dirt also gets trapped in them and it becomes a difficult task to remove it. This can be harmful not only for the nails but also for the hands. Apart from this, the dirt accumulated in the nails also has a bad effect on the health of the nails and they start becoming weak.
Precautions while keeping long nails (long nails side effects)
1. Keep nails clean
Clean your nails regularly to prevent dirt from accumulating under them. Do not ignore cleaning under long nails. Clean your nails with lukewarm water and mild soap. If you are unable to remove dirt from under the nails, you can use a nail cleaner or a soft brush.
2. Supplements to strengthen nails
If your nails are weak, then first of all you should avoid growing nails (long nails side effects). In such a situation, your nails break again and again. Still, if you are growing your nails, then include things like vitamin E, biotin, and zinc in your diet to make them stronger. Apart from this, massage with olive oil or coconut oil can also be beneficial for nails.
3. Keep trimming your nails
Even if you want to grow your nails, it is important to trim them from time to time. This keeps the growth of nails correct and reduces the risk of any cracks or breaks. Cut the nails short from the sides as well so that they do not catch dirt (long nails side effects).
4. Avoid wet nails
If you have long nails, you have to take another precaution. That is, if you wet them every now and then, the nails become weak. So if you have long nails then avoid tasks like washing utensils. Also, if you are washing clothes then you have to protect your nails from detergent (long nails side effects). This chemical causes the most damage to the nails.
5. Cosmetics Care
Now if you are growing your nails, then obviously you will try to apply polish on them. But you have to be careful while choosing them (long nails side effects). Certain chemicals can harm your nails or skin. So it is better to do some homework and research while buying nail polish.
FAQs: Long Nails Side Effects
1. Are long nails harmful to health?
Yes, long nails can be harmful to your health.
They easily trap dirt, bacteria, and fungi, which increases the risk of infections.
Long nails are also more prone to breakage, causing pain, bleeding, and nail damage.
Improper care can make them weak, brittle, and unattractive over time.
2. What infections can long nails cause?
Long nails can lead to fungal and bacterial infections, especially if not cleaned properly.
Some common issues include:
- Paronychia – infection of the skin around the nail
- Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) – causes discoloration and thickening of nails
- Bacterial infections – from trapped dirt and germs under nails
Tip: Wash your hands regularly and clean under your nails to prevent infections.
3. Can long nails cause pain or injury?
Yes, long nails are more likely to break or crack, which can cause:
- Severe pain and swelling
- Bleeding under the nail
- Pressure on nail roots, weakening them over time
Broken nails may also become infected if not treated properly.
4. Why do long nails become weak and brittle?
When nails are kept long without proper care:
- Dirt and moisture weaken nail structure
- Pressure on the nail bed makes them fragile
- Frequent exposure to water and detergents causes dryness
- Chemical-based nail polishes damage natural nail texture
As a result, nails may peel, crack, or lose their natural shine.
5. Can long nails affect everyday activities?
Yes, excessively long nails can make daily tasks difficult, such as:
- Writing or typing
- Cooking and cleaning
- Handling delicate items
- Wearing jewelry or clothes without snagging
This extra pressure on the nail roots can also slow nail growth and cause discomfort.
6. How to keep long nails clean and healthy?
To maintain long nails:
- Wash hands regularly with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Use a soft brush or nail cleaner to remove dirt from under nails.
- Trim nails regularly, especially the sides, to prevent cracks.
- Apply moisturizer or cuticle oil to keep nails hydrated.
- Avoid frequent use of acetone-based removers and harsh chemicals.
7. What nutrients strengthen long nails?
Include these nutrients in your diet to strengthen nails:
- Biotin – eggs, nuts, seeds
- Vitamin E – almonds, sunflower seeds
- Zinc – chickpeas, lentils, whole grains
- Calcium – milk, yogurt, leafy greens
Massaging nails with coconut oil or olive oil also helps improve strength and growth.
8. Why should you avoid keeping nails wet for long periods?
Keeping nails wet for too long makes them soft and fragile, increasing the risk of:
- Breakage and splitting
- Fungal infections due to trapped moisture
- Weakened nail roots over time
Pro Tip: Wear gloves while washing dishes or clothes to protect your nails.
9. Are nail polishes harmful to long nails?
Some nail polishes contain harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, which can:
- Dry out nails and skin
- Cause discoloration or yellowing
- Increase the risk of allergic reactions
Choose toxin-free or natural nail polishes and apply a base coat to protect your nails
10. How often should I trim long nails?
Even if you prefer long nails, trim them every 1–2 weeks to:
- Maintain proper shape and strength
- Reduce the risk of breakage and cracks
- Keep nails clean and free from trapped dirt
Trimming also promotes healthy and balanced nail growth
READ ALSO: Ridge Lines on Your Nails: A Complete Guide to Causes & Cures
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