you oughta trim the nails on your fingers and your toes regularly.

Painful complications like ingrown nails may arise if you go too far in cutting away at yourfingernailsor toenails.

Sometimes, ingrown nails may require a doctor’s visit to cut them out.

Woman trimming her fingernails

The University of Nottingham in the U.K. conducted a study about the effects of too-frequent nail trimming.

The physicists even created equations to help determine how frequently you should get out your nail clippers.

That means simple shapes are the best choices when trimming.

Doctor cutting a woman’s toenails

The American Academy of Dermatology Associationrevealed some basics for cutting your nails.

Use the proper tools, including nail trimmers or scissors for fingernails and toenail clippers for toes.

Resist the urge to cut your cuticles.

“Cuticles protect the nail root, so it’s important to avoid cutting yourcuticles or pushing them back.

Finally, finish with moisturizer.

If you notice significant changes in your nails, be sure to tell your doctor.