Getting your nails done can be a treat. Maybe you’re the kind of gal who regularly gets them done every week or two, or maybe you save it for special occasions and pamper days. There are so many different ways to express yourself through your nails, from bold colors to a classic French manicure. No matter what your go-to is, having strong and healthy nails is super important, and it opens up more options for ways you can beautify them.

Healthy nails tend to be a pinkish-white color with obvious cuticles. They should be smooth and consistent, without any pits or grooves or spots and discoloration. Nails that split or peel easily could reflect a vitamin deficiency, and while some lines become more prominent with age, others could be from stress. Nail-biting can lead to tiny white spots or red, swollen skin around the nails. Remember, if you notice any strange conditions with your nails, consult your doctor or dermatologist. Since our nails tend to reflect our overall health, we’re going to give you a few tips on taking care of your nails properly. First off, you want to keep your hands very clean. This means making sure you scrub out any grime when you wash your hands. This prevents bacteria from growing under your nails. You also want to practice good nail hygiene, by using appropriate scissors to regularly trim your nails straight across, as this helps avoid ingrown nails.

Getty Images/Westend61

Be gentle on your nails, don’t use them as tools, as this may cause separation from the skin. Care for your nails, and avoid nail-biting and cuticle-biting as much as you can, as this can damage the nail too. You can moisturize your nails, keeping them healthy and intact, and help avoid leaving the nail bed open to infection. Try keeping a nail file on hand, so if you notice a nick or rough edge, you can buff it out without letting it cause more damage. And finally, even if you absolutely must have your nails always painted, consider giving them a break now and then. Letting them rest and repair can prevent them from drying out or weakening over time.