Pedicure is an important part of self-care that helps maintain foot health and gives them an aesthetic appearance. Regular and proper care not only highlights the beauty of the feet and nails but also prevents common problems such as ingrown nails, brittleness, and damage. One of the key elements of a pedicure is the correct choice of nail shape, which can transform the overall look of the feet and emphasize their well-groomed appearance. A professionally done pedicure is not just about beauty, but also about taking care of foot health. Let’s explore the nail shapes that are currently in trend and how to choose the one that suits you best.

Well-groomed nails are an integral part of foot health and beauty. Choosing the right nail shape plays an important role, not only enhancing aesthetics but also preventing potential problems. Among the most popular shapes, square, soft square, and oval are particularly noteworthy. Each has unique advantages, making them suitable for different nail types and personal style preferences. A well-chosen shape will not only complement your overall look but also give your nails a neat and elegant appearance, highlighting your self-care.

This nail shape is considered one of the most popular. The straight edges effectively prevent ingrown nails, making it not only aesthetically pleasing but also optimal in terms of health. This choice ensures maximum comfort and gives the nails a polished, elegant appearance, making it ideal for both everyday life and special occasions.

The oval nail shape is the perfect choice for those who seek a more refined and natural look. Elegant and sophisticated, it suits most nail types, giving them a light and harmonious appearance. Although the oval shape is less commonly chosen for toenails, this is a misconception. In fact, it can be incredibly attractive, providing a natural yet elegant form that emphasizes the beauty and neatness of the toe area.

This is the ideal blend of square and oval shapes, creating a harmonious and refined line. The edges of the nails are gently rounded, giving them an elegant and soft look while providing strength and protection against damage. This shape combines style and durability, offering the perfect balance between beauty and functionality.

Damaged or uneven toenails not only affect their appearance but can also cause discomfort and, over time, lead to more serious nail health problems. Restoring them requires a careful approach and regular care. Pedicure professionals recommend:

- Filing. Use a nail file to give your toenails a neat shape. It’s important to file the nails in one direction — from the edges to the center — to prevent splitting and damage to the nail plate. This technique helps create a smooth and even result without weakening the nail structure, keeping it healthy.

- Moisturizing. Regularly use a special foot cream to prevent dryness and cracks on your feet and nails, keeping the skin soft and healthy. The cream provides intense hydration and creates a protective barrier that keeps your feet soft and well-groomed for a long time.

- Using protective products. Use strengthening polishes and special oils for your nails to strengthen and improve their structure, giving them a healthy and well-groomed appearance. These products deeply nourish and protect the nails, preventing breakage and splitting. The result is stronger, shinier, and visually perfect nails that will look well-maintained in any condition.

For more serious issues, such as nail fungus or thickening, it is important to consult a specialist to prevent the condition from worsening and to receive proper treatment.

Dry, brittle, or peeling nails require special attention and care. One effective remedy is massaging the nail plate with vitamin E extracted from capsules — this helps nourish and strengthen the nails. Soaking your feet in a bath with lemon juice and sea salt is also an excellent treatment for restoration, especially if the nails have darkened or become yellowish.

If nails begin to break or a bruise appears underneath, it may indicate a fungal infection. In this case, it’s important to refrain from self-treatment and seek medical attention promptly for an accurate diagnosis and necessary treatment.

A round nail shape is not only a practical but also a stylish choice that helps avoid many problems while giving your toenails a natural and well-groomed appearance. If you want to achieve the perfect round shape, here are a few simple steps to help you reach a flawless result:

- Preparation: Your feet and nails should be perfectly clean and thoroughly dry. For the best result, use a fine-grit nail file to gently shape the nails into a soft round shape. This will not only give them a neat and polished look but also make them more harmonious.

- Cuticle Softening: Use oil or cream specifically designed for the cuticle to moisturize and soften it before removal. This will make the process gentler and more effective, preventing skin damage and ensuring a tidy result.

- Cuticle Removal: Gently push back the cuticle with an orange stick, and if necessary, carefully trim any excess areas with manicure scissors, making sure not to damage the sensitive skin around the nail.

Square nails are not only a stylish but also a practical choice that helps prevent ingrown nails and makes nail care easier. To create square nails at home, start by preparing your nails: wash and dry your feet thoroughly. If necessary, trim your nails to the desired length to ensure a neat shape. Then, take a nail file and carefully work on the edges, forming a straight line along the sides. It's important to keep the corners of the nails sharp, without rounding them. Finish the process by gently buffing the edges with a fine file to smooth out any sharp areas, giving the nails an elegant and even appearance.

Without proper care, constant wearing of high heels can lead to nail deformation or the development of ingrown nails. Nails with a curved or convex shape are especially susceptible to this problem. To prevent discomfort and maintain nail health, it’s recommended to do soothing foot baths three times a week and trim nails in a straight line, carefully rounding the sharp corners with a nail file. Use a file with a soft surface for polishing, avoiding metal tools, and file nails from the edge to the center to minimize the risk of breakage. In case of ingrown nails, chamomile baths are especially effective. To prepare, pour six tablespoons of chamomile into a liter of boiling water, let it steep for an hour, and then heat it to a comfortable temperature. Soak the affected foot in the solution for about 20 minutes, then gently lift the nail and place a cotton pad soaked in iodine underneath. Repeat the procedure if necessary until the discomfort is completely relieved.

If the ingrown nail doesn't heal on its own, it's crucial to consult a specialist. Early intervention will help prevent complications and significantly simplify treatment, avoiding the need for long-term and complex therapy in the future.

1. Proper Nail Shape. Choosing the right nail shape is crucial for preventing ingrown nails. The ideal shapes are square or soft square, as they minimize pressure on the skin around the nail, reducing the risk of discomfort and irritation. These shapes are not only comfortable but also give the nails an elegant, well-defined look, combining style and comfort.

2. Regular Nail Care. Regular and careful trimming is essential for nail health. Make sure to file your nails regularly to maintain the desired shape. Avoid cutting them too short, as this can lead to ingrown nails, which cause discomfort and increase the risk of infections.

3. Moisturizing. Use moisturizing products specifically designed for nails and the surrounding skin to prevent dryness and keep them in perfect condition.

Choosing the right toenail shape is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also an important factor that affects the health of your feet. A well-chosen shape helps prevent many problems, such as ingrown nails, and gives your feet a neat and harmonious appearance. Experiment with different shapes to find the perfect one for you, considering the anatomy of your feet and your comfort. Regular care for your nails and foot skin is key to their health and beauty, so don’t forget to give attention to this important part of your body.

Read also: Foot skin care: how to avoid dry and cracked feet?