What should individuals avoid doing to maintain nail and cuticle health?

To maintain nail and cuticle health, individuals should avoid biting or picking at their cuticles. Engaging in this behavior can lead to several issues, including damage to the skin around the nails, increased risk of infection, and slower nail growth. The cuticles serve as a barrier that protects the nail matrix from bacteria and fungi, so any tearing or injury can compromise this protection. This can result in painful hangnails, inflammation, and even permanent damage to the nail bed.

In contrast, filing nails regularly is a good practice for shaping and preventing splits. Soaking nails in warm oil can actually nourish and condition both nails and cuticles, promoting health. Using nail strengtheners is also beneficial as it can help strengthen weak or brittle nails, contributing positively to overall nail health. Therefore, the behavior to be avoided in this context is biting or picking at the cuticles.