Tips From the Pros for Better Hair, Skin, & Nails

Have you ever wondered why these three parts of the body are always spoken about and advertised together in a single group?

One reason may be that this trio is normally associated with being one of the primary external indicators of good health. They are also the first things we (especially women) notice when we look at someone.

Hair, skin and nails also share something in common with each other. They have cells called keratinocytes in part of a system in the body called the integumentary system.

These keratinocytes grow from stem cells, both producing and storing keratin. Keratin is the protein that makes everyone's hair, skin and nails not just tough, but resistant to water as well.

So how can anyone start improving all three of these pillars of external beauty starting today?

Studies show there may be links between deficiencies of certain micronutrients in the body and abnormalities found in the hair, skin as well as the nails. From melanoma, to psoriasis, eczema and acne, research has shown that poor intake or low uptake of vitamins and minerals may contribute or be a culprit in many common cosmetic issues people experience.

A well-balanced diet full of leafy greens, including a multitude of colors and textures is recommended.

Some recommendations may include higher quality protein and iron intake, as well as limiting the consumption of sugar and seeking out healthy fats on store shelves over processed and saturated varieties.

Excess sugar in the diet also can encourage the degradation of collagen and elastin within the skin. Over time, this prompts a loss of elasticity and firmness causing wrinkles and sagginess.

Good sleepers also score much higher when it comes to skin, hair and nail quality compared to people with chronic insomnia.

When we're asleep, our body is busy repairing itself. It can be argued that the health of our hair, skin and nails begins first with the diet and ends with the amount of sleep we get, not considering genetic and age-related factors.

For Your Hair

For better hair quality, products with the following ingredients may be beneficial: Rosemary Oil, Biotin, Vitamin A, C and E. These are all vital to keeping the scalp healthy and nourishing the hair follicles. Any shampoos containing sulfates should be avoided (sulfates are normally used to create a 'lather' when bathing).

For the Skin

The essential routine for clear and healthy skin includes a facial cleanser with as many natural ingredients as possible, rinsed with tepid water and patted until try with a towel. 

It's difficult to recommend specific products as skin types are so varied, however many oils are universally known to clog the pores and often result in breakouts.

For Your Nails

The most common problem with nails is that they're left brittle by weather, water and common chemicals we use from day to day.

A good paraben-free nail oil helps greatly to mitigate trauma and lessens any temptation to pick away at hard, dry bits of the skin.

Overall, having a nightly drink of protein with collagen might be the best and easiest method overall to help problems with hair, skin and nails with the diet suggestions listed above.

SUMMARY: A large number of lifestyle factors can result in issues with less than optimal hair, skin and nail health. Poor diet, nutritional deficiencies and insomnia are by far some of the biggest leading causes. If you have the desire to get glowing skin, healthy nails and gorgeous hair again, there are no shortage of treatments and options available beyond the scope of the recommendations we've gone over today.