The state of our nails reveals a great deal about our lifestyles, habits, personalities and health. Well manicured nails suggests a measure of wealth. Clean, unbroken nails are more likely to be found in professional workers than in manual workers or dish-washing veterans. Chewed nails suggest bad habits, stress or a nervous disorder, and nails that are stained yellow are typical of a smoker. For this reason we spend a great deal of money on manicures and nail cosmetics. This chapter provides a scientific description of our nails, some basic guidance on how to look after them and a review of the cosmetic products we use to pamper our nails.

© Gina & Steve Antczak, 2001

This page was last updated, January 2001

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