The function of nails appears to be the protection of the ends of the fingers and toes, and the enhancement of the appreciation of fine touch, enabling one to pick up small objects. If the nails are very short, the sensitive skin of the finger tips may become damaged and calloused, and consequently less sensitive to light touch. Nail biters are daily reminded of the inconvenience arising from the loss of this ability. The protein keratin, of which nails are composed, contains mainly sulphur in the form of cysteine, which constitutes over 9 per cent, by weight, of the nail. Calcium, on the other hand, is present in only negligible quantities, representing approximately 0-26 per cent of the nail’s weight.

The care of nails is surrounded by almost as many myths as is hair care. Careful observation of a person’s nails may reveal much about that individual—such things as general health, disease of the skin, temperament, occupation and so forth. Doctors soon learn to recognize the bitten or picked nails of the neurotic and the smooth well-buffed nails of the scratch addict. A doctor’s suspicion of anaemia, certain internal diseases and occasionally even lung cancer may be aroused by careful observation of a person’s nails.

General cleanliness is an important part of nail care, to avoid contracting and transmitting infections. Similarly, carefully cut or filed nails will avoid complications such as hang-nail, ingrown nails and paronychia. As a general rule, fingernails should be slightly rounded at their ends, and toenails should be cut straight across.

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