Most people would say they put some time into how they appear -- with their attire, makeup and hairstyles. But how much time do you spend caring for your nails?

Dermatologists say healthy nails are an important part of overall health. When nails are in good physical shape, they are not only aesthetically pleasing, but make it easier to perform everyday tasks.

Regular visits to nail salons cost consumers in America more than $6 billion each year. In addition, consumers also spend millions on retail nail cosmetics at drugstores and cosmetic counters.

While the number of problems associated with nail cosmetics and services is small, there are some health risks associated with all that soaking, buffing, massaging and polishing.

"Nail cosmetics and salon services are generally quite safe, but there are four potential problem areas associated with the use of nail cosmetics and salon services: allergic reactions, irritant reaction, mechanical damage to the nail and infection," said Dr. Phoebe Rich, a professor of dermatology at Oregon Health Sciences University. "While these are fairly rare occurrences, they can be serious. Consumers are urged to take some simple measures to guard against these potential health concerns."

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions occur when a nail cosmetic ingredient sensitizes the skin so that every time the ingredient is used, itching, redness, blisters and pain may result. The most common ingredient that can create an allergic reaction is methylmethacrylate or MMA, which is used in the application of acrylic nails.

"Although MMA has been banned by many states and the (Food and Drug Administration) has issued warnings about its hazards, the substance is still being used in some discount salons because it costs so much less than the safer acrylate alternatives such as ethylmethacrylate," Rich said.

She said that if consumers notice a strong odor associated with acrylic nail application, MMA is probably being used and that salon should be avoided. Consumers should also report that salon to the state medical board.

Tosylamid formaldehyde resin is an ingredient found in some nail polishes that can create an allergic reaction.

If consumers experience itching or burning of the skin following a nail salon service or the application of nail cosmetics at home, Rich recommends removing the product as soon as possible and visiting a dermatologist to determine which ingredient is responsible for the allergy.

Irritant Reactions

When the nails are dehydrated because of excessive exposure to irritating substances like chemicals and soapy water, the nails may split, peel and become brittle. A few of the most dehydrating substances the nails are exposed to include nail polish remover and formaldehyde, which is a common ingredient in nail hardeners.

"Consumers should not use nail polish remover more than once a week and should moisturize their hands often, especially after using any dehydrating products and after washing the hands," Rich said. "One of the best ways to protect your nails from irritants is to wear gloves when doing wet work, such as cleaning with harsh products, or when gardening."

Mechanical Damage

The nail plate is designed to bend or break when stressed, but if consumers wear nail enhancements that are too long and put too much pressure on the nail, such as opening soda cans with the nails, the force of the stress will be transferred to the nail bed. Then the nail may become separated from the nail bed, creating a moist, warm space under the nail where bacteria or yeast can grow.

"Fungal infections make up approximately 50 percent of all nail disorders, and since the infection occurs under the nail plate or in the nail bed, it can be difficult to treat," Rich said. "One way to reduce the risk of contracting toenail fungus is to wear shower slippers in public showers, lockers rooms and around swimming pools."

The cuticle is another important part of a healthy nail because it forms a seal between the nail and the skin at the top of the finger so that irritants cannot gain access. When the cuticle is clipped or removed with small nippers or metal scrapers during a manicure or pedicure, it can result in an infection.

"It's important that consumers do not let their cuticles be cut, scraped or pushed to the point of breaking the seal between the nail and the skin," Rich said. "The best time to push back the dead cuticle is after soaking or showering when the cuticle is soft and use a soft towel or an appropriate nail-care implement, such as an orange stick."

Avoiding ingrown nails is also an important part of maintaining healthy nails. Consumers should always clip or cut their nails straight across. Certain shoes can also irritate ingrown toenails, especially if the shoes are tight or if the front of the shoe comes to a point and forces the toes close together or on top of each other.

Contracting an infection is the most serious health risk related to nail cosmetics particularly from manicure and pedicure tools and implements that have not been properly sterilized. Viral infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and C and warts can be transmitted to unsuspecting consumers from improperly sterilized implements.

"Most nail salons take sanitation very seriously and follow strict sanitation and disinfection guidelines, but consumers should not be afraid to ask how implements are cleaned," Rich said. "Look at the salon with cleanliness in mind and ask yourself these questions: Are the stations clean? Does the nail technician wash her hands between clients? Are there dirty implements lying around? If the salon does not appear clean, then move on."

Rich also recommends that consumers bring their own tools to be used at the salon to protect against infection.

American Academy of Dermatology: Nail Health