Health Tip: Clip Baby's Nails Carefully

Avoid cutting the skin

(HealthDay News) -- It's important to clip baby's nails frequently, to avoid accidental self-scratches.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers this advice when it's time to trim baby's nails:

Use nail clippers or scissors to cut long nails; use a nail file to keep them short.
If possible, trim/file baby's nails while he or she is asleep.
Gently press down on the skin beneath the nail to pull it away, so you can cut the nail without clipping the skin.
Use an emery board to file down nails and smooth any sharp edges.

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