The Nail Health Benefit Of Having Short, Rounded Nails

In the last few years, we've seen more and more people opt for longer (and longer) nails. While short and sweet was once the look, nail shapes like almondetto, coffin, and stiletto, among other claw-like talons have become surprisingly popular — and not just for celebrities like Dolly Parton and Rihanna. "Nail enhancements are an excellent way of achieving this 'perfect' look," nail technician Marian Newman told Refinery 29. "So many more women now realize this can be achieved with artificial nail products."

But while that may be the case, it turns out that when it comes to nail health, short and rounded is the way to go. "The round nail shape is rounded along the entire tip, and it works well on all nail lengths," nail expert Amy Lin told MindBodyGreen. "Round nails don't break as easily compared to oval or pointed nails." You also don't have to worry about snags or those dreaded hangnails.

Although many of us might be able to agree that long can be a lot of fun, we must also concede that managing them can be a struggle. Because of this, giving your nails and nail beds a break from time to time in exchange for shorties with rounded edges might be the best thing for you.

Right off the bat, the first benefit is that round edges are less likely to get caught on things, which also means the nail is less likely to tear. Who hasn't accidentally ruined a pair of tights or a finely knit sweater because of a square-edged nail? If that's not enough, the nail usually ends up splitting, causing more havoc and pain than at all necessary. 

If you're thinking going shorter will subtract from the length of your fingers, then think again. Short nails with rounded edges are quite complementary. "[Round] works best if you have shorter fingers, since it'll make your fingers look longer," professional manicurist Hannah Lee told W. "It's also great if you're active, since a shorter, rounded nail won't break as easily." And, of course, if your longer nails are the result of acrylics and your short nails are natural, then another major benefit is getting to avoid all that upkeep, which also means saving money.

No matter the length of your nails, when it comes to maintenance, keeping your nails healthy is paramount. Moisturizing your nails and cuticles daily with products that are specifically made for that part of the body is a good place to start. You also want to be aware of what you put in your body — you are what you eat, after all — so you want to make sure your diet consists of nutrients that are specific to nail health. "Eating a well-balanced diet as well as increasing your biotin intake is your best bet for helping to strengthen your nails," registered dietitian Melissa Bailey, MS, RD, LDD told Byrdie. "Biotin is a B vitamin found in a variety of foods." If your diet is deficient in biotin, then the next best thing is taking vitamins.

You also want to avoid irritants whenever you can. For example, wear gloves when you're washing dishes, only use acetone-free polish remover, and stay away from harsh chemicals — this also means giving up acrylic nails and always opting for breathable nail polish when you can. And, of course, never, ever pick at your nails and/or cuticles.

While there's no denying that short, rounded nails are a healthy option, it's also not a look everyone wants. Some people would rather sacrifice a bit of nail health in the name of style and that's okay. Life is about having choices and the more choices we have, the happier we'll all be.