1.Never clip nails to shorten them. Use an emery board to file nails down to size.

2.Use nail polish remover as infrequently as possible - especially those containing acetone. Most nail polish removers will dry nails out. Many specialists suggest using nail polish remover no more than once a week.

3.Apply a hand cream or lotion after washing hands since soaps tend to cause nails and skin to become very dry. Cuticles should remain moisturized with Vaseline or a moisturizer such as Moisture or Aquaphor. (Tip: Apply moisturizer before going to sleep each night.)

4.Never peel or scrape off nail polish or use metal instruments on the nail surface to push back the cuticles. This can scrape off the protective cells of the nail surface.

5.Break the habit of nail biting - it is very destructive to both the nail and the cuticle and can lead to infections that can actually deform the nail.

6. An excellent time to do your manicure is after a shower,

bath or the dishes. These activities will   remove dirt from under the nails as well as soften dry nails. 

7.Never peel or scrape off nail polish or use metal instruments on the nail surface to push back the cuticles. This can scrape off the protective cells of the nail surface.

8.Break the habit of nail biting - it is very destructive to both the nail and the cuticle and can lead to infections that can actually deform the nail.

9.An excellent time to do your manicure is after a shower, bath or the dishes. These activities will remove dirt from under the nails as well as soften dry nails.