Skip to main content

Why Nail Care is Important in the Field of Dermatology

By October 22, 2014May 11th, 2023Skin Care

When thinking of dermatology, you may not think of your nails, but nails are an important part of your body and must be attended to as such. Nails can be a reflection of our overall health with regard to disease, nutrition, trauma, aging and chronic illness. Discoloration or irregularities in the nails can be an indication of an underlying health condition such as liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, or diabetes.

Proper nail care is important. Fungal infections in nails are common and make up nearly half of all nail-related issues. While these may seem minor, they are actually a common concern communicated to professionals in dermatology. Baton Rouge residents can avoid nail issues by wearing sandals in showers and at the pool on a hot summer day. This preventative measure will help reduce the risk of developing a fungal infection in the toenails.

Pay attention to the color, shape, and thickness of your nails, as these could be signs of other health conditions. If you’re experiencing chronic pain or swelling around the nails, consult your dermatologist.

There are some steps you can take to make sure your nails stay healthy and clean. Keep nails clean, dry, and properly trimmed at all times. When nails grow too long, trim them down with nail scissors and file with an emery board to keep your nails strong and snag-free. Mimic this same process with the toenails, although less regularly since toenails grow at a slower rate. Do not bite your nails as this can cause damage to the nail. Additionally, do not try to dig out ingrown toenails. If you’re suffering pain from an ingrown toenail, it is best to consult a certified professional with experience in practicing dermatology. Baton Rouge residents can contact The Dermatology Clinic to schedule an appointment today.