If you work with chemicals, use clear nail polish. Sounds girly, but every HVAC/CBRN/vehicle mechanic in the Army is told to use it. Years of motor oil, grease, caulk, etc will slowly cause permanent damage to your nail beds.

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I have eczema, so I use moisturizer after I shower. I prefer thicker creams; easier to keep on just your hands. Moisturizers delete calluses, but women can appreciate a guy with soft hands for other reasons 😛

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Also trim your nails at least once a week. If they ever start to crack or seem brittle/jagged at the end, buy a glass file and file them down a little after clipping. Same logic as sanding the end-grain before applying wood glue; it helps prevent moisture from seeping in and weakening the nail. Honestly, you can basically think of nails as wood; same general concepts for sealing/upkeep. Never really thought about it, but the Army really taught me a lot about hand care 😂

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