Many people love to paint, decorate and show off their nails. However, if you aren't taking care of your nails, they can become dull, chipped and even completely break. Do you want to avoid all of these unwanted issues? There are some simple steps you can take to care for your nails and keep them looking great. Here are five tips for a longer lasting manicure. Make caring for your nails a routine Nail expert, Melissa Forrest claims this is the key to better-looking nails, hands, and a longer lasting manicure. "Filed nails and regular conditioning are key to younger-looking hands. You wouldn’t go to the hairdresser, get a fabulous cut and then never use conditioner in your hair. A beautiful manicure won’t last without proper care, either." So, make caring for your nails a routine. You should file and moisturize your hands at least weekly.   Push back your cuticles Pushing back and moisturizing your cuticles promotes the growth of healthy nails. However, you should not cut your cuticles. Cutting this layer of skin off completely exposes your nails to germs and bacteria that can lead to infection and weaken nails.   Don't use your nails as tools While healthy nails can be strong, the individual layers that make up your nails are delicate.Don't use your nails as a tool to open something or scratch off a sticker. This can lead to peeling and splitting of the nail. Skip this and use proper tools instead.   Avoid harmful chemicals Most nail polishes are filled with toxic chemicals according to WebMD the three worst are DBP, toluene and formaldehyde. They damage the nails when used over time and have an impact on appearance. Here is what they do and why you should worry: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) "Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is added to nail polishes to increase flexibility and decrease brittleness of the polish formula, but it has been linked to reproductive problems. DBP is a known reproductive and developmental toxin. It was banned by the European Union back in 2005, but the U.S. doesn’t restrict it from being used in beauty products." Toluene "Toluene is commonly used as a solvent, which is an ingredient that creates a smooth finish across the nail and keeps the pigment from separating in the bottle, but it can affect the central nervous system. Toluene is also known as a possible reproductive and developmental toxin that may cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue." Formaldehyde "Formaldehyde is used as a nail-hardening agent and disinfectant for nail care tools. It is another known carcinogen that can cause eye, throat, nose and skin irritation. It may also cause allergic reactions and is unsafe for use by people with asthma." Use better products 786 Cosmetics creates nail polish that is healthy and safe. We skip those toxic ingredients as well as many others. (Bonus: our products are also cruelty-free and vegan)! Better products equal better-looking nails. Our formula was created with consumers like you in mind. Ready to get on the path to a great manicure? Get started by purchasing 786 Cosmetics nail polish today!