image via essence.com
Have you ever wished you didn’t have to use nail extensions before you have beautiful nails? Or you have admired a friend or even a stranger’s natural long nails and wished your natural nails could be the same? Well, here are a few do’s and don’ts to having those beautiful, strong and long nails you have admired.
Long Nails
DO’S

Keep your fingernails at an appropriate length and trim your nails when they get too long as long nails can easily snag on objects and break
Wash your hands with a gentle soap
Moisturize your cuticles and nails regularly by massaging oil into the nail bed and cuticle daily.
Maintain a proper diet rich in protein and containing whole grain cereals, whole wheat bread, chicken, eggs and dairy products. You could also take Biotin and Vitamin E supplements as they promote the growth and strengthening of nails
Get regular manicures; you could do this yourself if you can take out the time
When getting your manicure done you should endeavor to;

push back or remove your cuticle
use cuticle oil to hydrate your cuticles; this will give you stronger and healthier looking nails   
file your nails into a rounded shape and gently buff your nails to give you smoother looking nails
when painting your nails, use a healthy and nourishing base coat, two coats of your nail polish of choice, and then a clear top coat  

Protect your nails when doing household chores or when you have to come in contact with harsh chemicals

Image via pinterest.com
DON’TS

Stop wearing nail extensions;if you have to, go extended periods of time between use of extensions
Do not peel or chip your nail polish off
Stop using your nails as tools for peeling labels or unfastening key rings or any other uses
Don’t bite your nail
Minimize the use of harsh chemicals and tools