Why 'Digging' Under Nails Should Be Avoided

Much to contrary belief, nails are not indestructible. In fact, in comparison to our skin and hair, they are equally as susceptible to abuse and neglect, but did you know that something as simple as a bad habit can have damaging consequences for our presumably strong talons?

Although 'digging' under the free edge may seem perfectly harmless, this common technique can have a particularly destructive impact on our nails. Confused? don't be! This is quite simply due to the hyponychium. 
Situated directly underneath the free edge, the hyponychium attaches to the nail plate, providing a protective seal for the nail bed. It should therefore come as no shock that a 'digging' induced breakage in this seal forces a minor separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, creating the perfect route for bacteria. 

In the prevention of infection and to minimize the risk of a broken seal , simply ensure that adequate care is taken to avoid any form of 'digging' under nails.