Social media is brimming with interesting hacks and tips, especially when it comes to skin and hair care. But caution must always be exercised before trying any new social-media recommendations, along with a patch test, and even consulting an expert, if needed. As such, when we came across a page Be_Natural_302 suggesting mixing two pinches of salt in two teaspoons of coconut oil and dipping one’s fingertips in it for 15 minutes for “two times” faster, healthier, and stronger nail growth, it compelled us to find out the truth behind the claim.
“Soak your fingertips for 15 minutes. Then wash off with a warm cloth. This helps to grow nails two times faster, healthier, and stronger,” the post read.
Dr Vandana Punjabi, dermatologist and trichologist at Khar, and Nanavati Hospital, said there are many factors that influence nail growth such as age, nutrition, hormones, overall health etc. “Younger people tend to have faster growing nails than older people, and men and pregnant women tend to experience faster nail growth than others. The average rate of growth of our fingernails is 3.77 mm per month and if you lose a fingernail, it may take about six months to grow back,” said Dr Punjabi.
The expert added that chronic conditions such as heart, liver, kidney and thyroid diseases, along with psoriasis and fungal infections can slow nail growth, as well as affect their shape and overall appearance. “Some nutritional deficiencies and certain medications can also slow down nail growth,” she said.
So, does the hack work?
According to Dr Punjabi, there is no scientific evidence to prove that soaking hands in a mixture of salt and coconut oil has any impact on nail growth. “In fact, this can trigger nail infections in certain predisposed people. Note that there is no instant remedy that will help nails to grow faster,” Dr Punjabi told indianexpress.com.
However, Dr Sandeep Babbar, dermatologist, and medical director, Revyve Skin, Hair and Nail Clinic, Faridabad explained that while not regular salt, sea salt is a natural ally to “balance, preserve, and heal the body and skin because our bodies have the same concentration of minerals and nutrients as sea water”.
“Magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium are just a few of the minerals that are abundant in sea salt and are important for the health, function, and cellular communication of our skin. Cuticles, skin, and nails are softened and strengthened by salt. Lemon and baking soda both help to lessen stains and discolouration, giving nails a brighter, healthier appearance,” said Dr Babbar, adding that one should instead soak their fingernails in sea salt mixed with lukewarm water.
“Brittle nails will be strengthened by this sea salt soak. Additionally, it aids in skin resurfacing. Properly moisturise,” Dr Babbar added.
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Taking care of your nails is extremely important. | Source: Getty/ Indianexpress)
Dr Punjabi went on to suggest some natural ways to ensure healthier nail growth:
*Proper nutrition is the most important thing for healthy and strong nails. So, eat a balanced diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean sources of proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
*Take a multivitamin supplement containing biotin. Alternatively, one can include biotin-rich foods into their diet such as bananas or avocados.
*Avoid gel and acrylic nails.
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*Avoid nail biting.
*Avoid pushing or trimming the cuticle.
*Keep the nails dry and clean.
*Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers.
*Moisturise your hands repeatedly with a hand cream or lotion. Make sure to rub it into the fingernails, especially at the base where the cuticles are located.
*Consult a dermatologist if you find your nails are brittle and prone to breakage or find changes in colour or shape in nails, Dr Punjabi said.
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True or false: Soaking nails in a mixture of salt and coconut oil makes them ‘grow faster, stronger’ - The Indian Express
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