With the holiday season approaching, salons are filling up as Filipinos prepare for year-end parties, reunions, and celebrations. From intricate gel designs and chrome accents to 3D art, gemstones, and extensions, nail art has become an exciting form of self-expression.

But while a fresh mani-pedi can complete a festive look, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reminds beauty enthusiasts not to overlook the health of their natural nails.

According to dermatologist Dr. Sharon Osmena Lim, MD, FPDS, DPSV, changes in nail color, texture, shape, and strength can sometimes provide clues about underlying health concerns, including nutritional deficiencies, infections, and other medical conditions.

Healthy nails are generally smooth, strong, and uniformly pink with white tips. Brittle or easily broken nails, however, may be associated with poor nutrition, trauma, excessive manipulation, or exposure to chemicals found in some nail products and removers. Yellow or discolored nails may simply be stained by polish but can also indicate a fungal infection. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, may develop after illness or injury, while dents or pits can be associated with skin conditions such as psoriasis.

Dr. Lim advises seeking medical evaluation for persistent or worsening discoloration, changes in thickness, swelling, nail separation, or pain, particularly among people with conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease that may affect wound healing.

Frequent gel manicures and elaborate nail treatments can also weaken the natural nail plate because of chemical exposure, UV curing lamps, and the application and removal process.

To keep nails healthy, Dr. Lim recommends keeping them clean and dry, using a mild cleanser, avoiding nail-biting and picking, wearing gloves when handling chemicals, and refraining from using nails as tools.

Most importantly, she encourages giving nails regular breaks from polish, buffing, chemicals, and UV exposure. Sometimes, the best beauty treatment is simply letting your natural nails breathe and recover.

For more information, visit Makati Medical Center or contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632 88888 999.