How to Clean Your Fingernails for Men

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Between playing outdoor sports, fixing cars and doing yard work, men's hands can become dirty quickly. While women take time to get manicures and paint their nails, caring for them diligently, men can sometimes neglect nail care. Cleaning nails that are clogged with dirt and debris may seem like a daunting task, but a man's nail care needs are the same as that of a woman.

Clip nails horizontally using nail clippers. Use an emery board to file down the edges of the nail. Clip nails before washing since warm water softens the nail and may lead to injury.

Wash hands with soap and water, placing nails under the water flow to break loose debris under the nails. Use a scrub brush to clean dirt and grime from beneath the nails.

Place hands in a bowl of warm water and soak for a few minutes. This will soften the nail and loosen any remaining debris.

Push cuticles down gently using an orangewood stick. Be careful not to slip and pierce the delicate skin beyond the cuticles. Carefully trim excess cuticles.

Buff the nail surface until you see a healthy shine.

Apply hand lotion, making sure to cover the surface and edge of the nail with lotion, since they need moisture too.