To stay strong, your nails need to breathe occasionally. As nail polish begins to break down it starts to dehydrate the nail, and as it dehydrates it can break down the layer of that nail. It can either be a slow process or a quick one. Slow in the respect that prolonged use will be the cause, and quick in the respect that you might be allergic to one or more of the ingredients in the polish. The main culprit being formaldehyde and toluene. As the nail beings to thin it is more susceptible to more problems such as formaldehyde burn, fungus and yeast complications. I recommend going au natural in the winter while your toes are in hibernation.
Helpful Botanicals for Foot Care
Melaleuca oil (aka Tea tree oil) – a proven antimicrobial, and can be used directly on fungus nails. Lavender – relaxes while doubling as a natural germicide, the healing oil
Citronella – a strong antiseptic, stimulates and aids healing
Eucalyptus – stimulates and has antiseptic properties
Menthol – a constituent of peppermint oil, cools, refreshes, and deodorizes
Rosemary – serves as a natural bactericide and antifungal