The nail and the fingertip pulp are the parts most directly exposed to the instruments.
What are the pathologies?
Problems with the nails
The nail and the fingertip pulp are the parts most directly exposed to the instrument. The nails on the fingers of the left hand mainly suffer from erosion and trauma. Proper care of these nails also contributes to the guitarist’s performance.
Dermatological disorders
- Brittle nails: Guitarists’ nails tend to break and harden due to microtraumas and vibrations from the strings.
- Calluses: Cornified thickening of the fingers caused by mechanical trauma. At the beginning of practice or after a long break, blisters or erosions can occur, especially on the longer fingers.
Allergic contact dermatitis:
Components of the strings, such as nickel (found in some guitar strings), are common allergens. Skin irritation on the fingers from the strings can promote allergic problems. Other elements in the composition of the strings may also be involved and sometimes worsen these allergic reactions.
Exotic woods:
Certain woods are known allergens: rosewood, Pao ferro, ebony, and Western red cedar (Thuja plicata). Luthiers are particularly exposed to these allergic risks from wood but are also prone to rhinitis and asthma attacks.
Dyes and varnishes:
Luthiers face more exposure to allergic problems from dyes and varnishes than guitarists do.
How to care for your guitarist’s nails?
Find the ideal shape and length
The way guitarists cut and shape their nails is quite subjective, especially since each playing style has its own specifics. It’s therefore common to see different nail lengths from one guitarist to another. Several approaches exist, but there is clear consensus on the need to properly care for nails to keep them healthy and strong.
What to use to care for your nails?
Tools for trimming: the only tool you really need is a nail file. If possible, avoid disposable nail files usually found in supermarkets—they can make nails more sensitive and accelerate wear over time. The best option is a stainless steel nail file with a diamond dust coating. This durable tool is gentle on your nails while taking good care of them.
Products for maintenance:
- PODERM Nourishing Oil-Serum: Apply the oil by massaging your nails and cuticles three times a week, or even once or twice daily during a 3-week treatment. Allow about five minutes for the oil to penetrate the nail. After a few weeks, your nails should look better and be noticeably stronger.
- Brewer’s yeast: It’s easy to use—regularly sprinkle brewer’s yeast flakes or powder on your meals, or occasionally take it in capsule form as a supplement. Say goodbye to brittle, ridged nails that don’t grow properly.
Tips to avoid damaging your nails:
Avoid playing too aggressively. Nails are fragile, even when well cared for. Physical stresses related to vitamin deficiencies, aging nails, fatigue, and chemical stresses from exposure to products can weaken them. Therefore, always be careful not to handle cleaning agents, solvents, acetone-based products, or gasoline without wearing gloves first. These substances are extremely harmful to nails. Finally, for healthy nails, proper hydration is essential—drinking at least one liter of water per day will improve your nails’ health.
Take care of your nails now!
The Nourishing Serum is a natural antioxidant and regenerator. It nourishes, protects, and repairs the nail and the healthy skin around it. This serum helps you regain nails that are perfectly healthy, smooth, shiny, and strong.
