Parents with babies know that after a baby is born, their nails grow very quickly. Since they have absorbed nutrients from their mother in the womb, babies are born with long nails. So, what should parents pay attention to when trimming such tiny nails? Are there any special techniques or tricky issues when trimming a baby's nails?
1. How often to trim nails
The frequency of trimming a baby's nails is related to the speed of their nail growth. Fingernails and toenails naturally grow at different rates, so parents can adjust the trimming schedule based on their baby's nail growth cycle. Generally, fingernails should be trimmed 1-2 times a week, while toenails can be trimmed 1-2 times a month.
Note: It’s best to trim the baby’s nails so that they are level with or slightly shorter than the fingertip. Parents can determine the trimming cycle based on their baby’s individual needs.
2. Use baby nail clippers
A baby’s nails are very small, and the nail bed is quite resilient. Using adult nail clippers carelessly could easily harm the baby’s nails or delicate fingers. Using baby nail clippers designed specifically for infants can minimize damage and ensure the nails are trimmed smoothly and neatly.
3. Trim nails while the baby is asleep
Babies are naturally active after birth. If parents try to trim their nails while they’re awake, the baby may not cooperate, leading to accidental injuries or incomplete trimming. It’s better to wait until the baby is sound asleep before trimming their nails, which allows for a more thorough and careful job.
4. The correct trimming posture
When trimming nails, parents can lay the baby flat on the bed or, if the baby can sit, have them lean back against a parent while holding one of their hands. If the baby is lying down, another parent may need to help by gently holding the baby’s hand and body to prevent sudden movements that could cause injury.
5. Check if the nails are trimmed evenly
After trimming, parents should run their fingers along each nail to check for any sharp edges or uneven spots. This prevents the baby from scratching their delicate skin when rubbing their face with their hands.
6. Post-trimming precautions
Note 1: Clean dirt with water
If there is dirt or debris under the baby’s nails, avoid using sharp objects to pick it out or cutting the nails too short to remove it. Instead, try washing the nails with water to clean out the dirt gently.
Note 2: Don’t cut nails too deep
Avoid cutting the nails too deep or trimming the corners excessively, as this can cause the nails to grow into the skin, potentially leading to paronychia, which is harmful to the baby’s health.
Note 3: Don’t pull hangnails
If the baby has hangnails (also called “hangnails”), do not pull them off, as this can damage the skin around the finger. Instead, use scissors to carefully trim the hangnails and prevent infection.
Note 4: If an injury occurs
If the baby’s hand is accidentally injured, clean and disinfect the wound immediately. Provide proper care, and if the injury worsens, seek medical attention promptly.
Trimming a baby’s nails is no easy task, but with practice, parents can improve their technique, ensuring their baby’s nails grow healthily and the baby stays safe and sound.
