You need to trim the nails on your fingers and your toes regularly. It may be a chore that you dread and put off, or you might love to do it frequently. Unfortunately, if you trim your nails too much, you risk some damage, preventing future growth and causing other issues (via Radiance by WebMD). Painful complications like ingrown nails may arise if you go too far in cutting away at your fingernails or toenails. Sometimes, ingrown nails may require a doctor’s visit to cut them out.

The University of Nottingham in the U.K. conducted a study about the effects of too-frequent nail trimming. The physicists even created equations to help determine how frequently you should get out your nail clippers. They found that the stress is worse for larger, flatter nails, which may be why people experience more frequent ingrown toenails. Researcher Cyril Rauch told Radiance, “Looking at our results, we suggest that nail beauty fanatics who trim their nails on a daily basis opt for straight or parabolic (curved in an arch) edges, as otherwise, they may amplify the imbalance of stresses, which could lead to a number of serious conditions.” That means simple shapes are the best choices when trimming.

How to trim your nails and how often to do it as part of your personal hygiene routine is something that you need to get right to protect your fingernails and toenails’ health.

Here's how often you should trim your nails

Although you should avoid cutting your nails too frequently, you shouldn’t put it off too long. Esteban Kosak, MD, told Best Life, “When you don’t cut your nails often, they can easily get damaged and break, and are more likely to harbor dirt and bacteria that can potentially spread infection.” Ideally, you should grab your clippers about once a week for your fingernails and a couple of times a month for your toenails since they grow more slowly.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association revealed some basics for cutting your nails. They stress the need to soften your nails, which means the best time to trim them is after a shower or bath. Use the proper tools, including nail trimmers or scissors for fingernails and toenail clippers for toes. Cut all nails nearly straight across, and then use a nail file to round the edges of your fingernails slightly, as well as to smooth any rough edges. Resist the urge to cut your cuticles. “Cuticles protect the nail root, so it’s important to avoid cutting your cuticles or pushing them back. When you trim or cut your cuticles, it’s easier for bacteria and other germs to get inside your body and cause an infection. If you get a nail infection, it can sometimes take a long time to clear,” wrote the AAD. Finally, finish with moisturizer. If you notice significant changes in your nails, be sure to tell your doctor.

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