HAVE QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS!

Our goal is to provide honest, accurate information that will help you make better decisions about your skin and nail care needs. We have answered these questions in a “conversational tone” to provide as much help as possible.

If you have questions that you don’t see below, just send us an email (customerservice@zevanails.com) and we’ll do our best to get you the answers you need and may add your question to our FAQ pages. This forum will continue to evolve as we learn and as new research provides additional insights into the best, safest choices for all of us. Enjoy!

NATURAL NAIL CARE

1. I don’t want to wear nail polish. Can ZEVA help? 
Yes, we have you covered.  ZEVA’s 5- Piece Natural Nail Care System will will help you attain soft, smooth and moisturized cuticles, silky smooth and shiny fingernails (without polish) and nail tips that are strong and more resistant to splitting, peeling and cracking. The system includes: ZEVA Austrian Crystal File gently removes tiny cracks that naturally develop, sealing the tips of your fingernails and toenails, strengthening them and promoting healthy nail growth. ZEVA 3 Buffing Files are professional, salon-quality tools we’ve developed to smooth and condition the nail surface and deliver a radiant shine – without polish. ZEVA Cuticle Oil Pen repairs and nourishes dry cuticles to leave your skin smooth while also conditioning nails to keep them strong and healthy.

2. My fingernails are peeling. Why? 
Fingernails are porous, and will absorb water. When water is absorbed into the ends of your fingernails, they develop very small micro-cracks that you cannot see. If you don’t remove these cracks, they will get bigger and soon cause splits, cracks and peeling. We’ve created a file that solves this problem. The ZEVA Austrian Crystal File. It helps two ways. First, it removes these micro-cracks, before they can get big enough to do damage and second, it gets the nail edge so smooth it actually reduces absorption - thus minimizes the damage.

3. Is cuticle oil necessary? 
No – but it really, really helps your cuticles and nails. Good cuticle oil is designed to carry out several different functions (hydration, protection, cell stimulation, anti-bacterial, skin softening, and so on).

4. What make a good cuticle oil? 
A combination of oils that penetrate, hydrate, protect, disinfect, stimulate the nails, soften the cuticles and nourish the skin around your nails. We’ve created a blend of 14 healthy, natural (NO Synthetic fragrances or fillers) that do just that.

5. I have hangnails and my cuticles are cracked and hurt. What can I do.
Cuticles need attention too!  They need to be pushed back and hydrated to prevent hangnails and rough, dry skin.  We created the ZEVA® Cuticle Oil Pen and the ZEVA Crystal File to help you easily manage these tasks. ZEVA Cuticle Oil Pen soothes, hydrates, moisturizes and conditions cuticles and nails. It provides the absolute perfect amount of vitamin-enriched-oil directly where it’s needed, with  its, no-mess, no-spill tip. Our pen design is award winning and contains 600% more oil than other pens. Our patented, spring-loaded felt tip, made from organic natural fibers, prevents oil from leaking or dispensing more than is needed. The healthy oil absorbs quickly, leaving a natural, botanical scent. Salon tested and Dermatologist approved. ZEVA Austrian Crystal File The ends of the ZEVA file are rounded and specifically designed to push back and erase cuticles. Gently push back the skin (cuticle) at the nail base. Hold the file parallel to the nail surface to prevent scratching the nail surface. Use the ends of the file, like a pencil eraser, to remove excess dry skin.

6. Can you provide more info on the ZEVA Austrian Crystal File? 
The ZEVA Austrian Crystal File is different from every other file. It is made from pulverized Aluminum Oxide (known as Austrian Crystal) and a proprietary ceramic/porcelain compound. When pulverized, Austrian Crystal particles become razor sharp, flat crystals – smaller than a piece of sand. When you run your finger over the ZEVA file, it feels smooth because the crystals are so small. Because of the shape and size of these particles, the ZEVA file is gently shaving the nail edge to a smoothness unequaled by any “normal” glass, metal or paper files. The result is a nail edge so incredibly smooth that it repels water, and eliminates splitting, chipping and peeling. No other file does this!

Why is it so important? Fingernails are porous, and will absorb water. When water is absorbed into the ends of your fingernails, they develop very small micro-cracks that you cannot see. These cracks will quickly get bigger and eventually cause splits, cracks and peeling. The ZEVA Austrian Crystal File helps two ways. First, it removes these micro-cracks, before they can get big enough to do damage and second, it gets the nail edge so smooth it actually reduces absorption - thus minimizes the damage.

7. How to I use the ZEVA Austrian Crystal File? 
NAIL TIPS: First, clip or file your nails - to the desired length and shape - using any abrasive nail file or nail clipper. Our file is too fine for this. Once they look right, use your ZEVA Crystal File to finish filing and sealing your fingernails. For the first week, we recommend filing your nails every day with your ZEVA file to achieve the best results. It should only take you about 40 – 60 seconds (total) to do all ten nails. As your nails get stronger, you will be able to extend the number of days between uses. And yes, unlike any other file, it is OK to file in both directions. CUTICLES: The ends of the ZEVA file are rounded and specifically designed to push back and erase cuticles. Gently push back the skin (cuticle) at the nail base. Hold the file parallel to the nail surface to prevent scratching the nail surface. Use the ends of the file, like a pencil eraser, to remove excess dry skin. For best results: After pushing back and erasing your cuticles, use the ZEVA Cuticle Oil Pen to hydrate your cuticles and keep them looking their best.

8. Do ZEVA buffers really last for “years”?
Yes! These are professional  buffers designed to be cleaned and used for many years. Many customers report their files last for 5, 10 or even 15 years. Clean them often and enjoy.

9. What makes ZEVA buffers better?
Each file is 2-sided for twice the longevity. Constructed with a rigid plastic center for strength and stability, a dense foam liner to help you control the pressure applied on the nail surface and a cloth surface, for consistent, durable, extended performance. Each file’s cloth surface is coated with a, pulverized, mildly-abrasive aluminum oxide (commonly called “Austrian Crystal”) for years and years of dependable use. Each file is 7” long, ¾” wide and 3/16” thick. These files should be washed to remove any oils or nail filings that may accumulate from your hands, nails or toes.

10. Are ZEVA Nail Buffers the same on both sides?
Each file is 2-sided for twice the longevity. Constructed with a rigid plastic center for strength and stability, a dense foam liner to help you control the pressure applied on the nail surface and a cloth surface, for consistent, durable, extended performance. Each file’s cloth surface is coated with a, pulverized, mildly-abrasive aluminum oxide (commonly called “Austrian Crystal”) for years and years of dependable use. Each file is 7” long, ¾” wide and 3/16” thick. These files should be washed to remove any oils or nail filings that may accumulate from your hands, nails or toes.

• Solvents - the strong smelling ingredient that keeps the polish liquid in the bottle.
• Resins – the material that dries and sticks to your nails once the solvents evaporate.
• Other stuff – ingredients that keep the polish pliable and adhered to the nail surface.

Depending on the quality of these ingredients, polish will last on most people 5-10 days.Some companies use ingredients, that are considered harmful, to extend wear. We just won’t go down that path.  Safety is always our primary consideration. So, eat good food, drink lots of clean water, exercise, wear gloves to wash dishes and garden, don’t stress and follow our suggestions for preparing your nails for polish.  

2. Is ZEVA nail polish safe?
Yes, it is always our first consideration. We are 8 free, vegan, cruelty free and we ethically source our raw ingredients from the best sources we can find. 

3. Is ZEVA a 1-coat polish?
Yes. ZEVA polishes and treatments are formulated with more resins (the material that’s left on your nails once the solvents evaporate) than other polish brands. Our polish feels thicker, during application. and once applied many describe it as feeling thicker on their nails.

4. Can I apply a second coat of ZEVA?
Yes, some people like two coats. We suggest that you do not apply two “thick” coats. Two thinner coats is better. Also, it works best to apply the second coat within a few minutes of the first coat, or... wait a few hours, until is dry.

5. Does nail polish protect nails?
Yes, all polish protects your nails. In fact, “quality” nail polish is actually very good for your nails. It helps to seal in your bodies own natural moisture and oils and provides a protective barrier against the everyday stresses we all encounter. We would suggest avoiding any polish that contains any of the ingredients listed at the end of our (see Ingredients Page).  

6. What is the best way to prep my nails for a manicure?
Ahhhh, this one will be fun. There is a long answer and a short one.  Skip the short one because it doesn’t work! We will give you a list of steps to follow to get the best results:

• Remove any polish or treatment products on your nails. (see “How to remove my polish”)
• Wash off the remover and dry your hands quickly. We recommend you avoid soaking your nails because they are porous and will absorb the water and swell. If you polish your nails before they have dried, they will contract and may cause the polish to lose adhesion, especially around the edges.
• Apply oil (the ZEVA Cuticle Oil Pen is a good choice) to your cuticles and allow it to soak in for several minutes while you file and shape the ends of your nails.
• File your nails to your desired length and shape. Slightly rounded edges are stronger.
• Gently push back your cuticles and erase the dead skin around your nails. Our ZEVA Austrian Crystal File works great for this.
• If necessary, remove excess cuticle tissue with a cuticle nipper. Be careful – just remove the excess free edge part. Do very careful not to cut into the healthy cuticle tissue. As it is there for a reason – it protects the nail bed from all sorts of problems. 
• Use the ZEVA Austrian Crystal File to seal your nail tips. This will significantly reduce peeling and splitting, allowing your polish to longer adhere to your nails.
• Once your nails are shaped and filed to your desired length and shape and you have removed any excess cuticle tissue, you need to wipe ALL excess oils and debris from your nails. We suggest a cotton ball soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Just wipe the nail surface and then don’t touch anything for 1 minute! Allow the alcohol to evaporate.
• Apply the polish of your choice, following the products instructions.

7. Why is my polish peeling?
There are typically a few reasons. 

• First, is inadequate nail preparation. It is imperative that you remove all oils, lotions and debris from the nail surface, free edge and cuticle before you apply polish.
• Second, Your nails were too wet when you applied your polish. We recommend you avoid soaking your nails because they are porous and will absorb the water and swell. If you polish your nails before they have dried, they will contract and may cause the polish to lose adhesion, especially around the edges.
• You are applying too much product/polish. Each brand, treatment, color, type of polish has an optimal quantity to apply. Too little will just leave you with a disappointing appearance. However, too much product applied could lead to uneven drying, adhesion issues and possibly peeling. Usually, after a few nails, you will see how the product applies and be able to adjust the amount applied accordingly.

8. Are base and top coats necessary?
No, they are not necessary, but sometimes they will help you attain the look and superior adhesion you’re trying to achieve. Many ZEVA users wear the Nail Bright over the Nail Guard. Others put the Nail Strong on top of their favorite nail enamel or over the Nail Guard for a high-gloss look. If you have weak nails, two thin coats is usually a better option to help protect your nails. See (Is ZEVA a 1-coat product?) and (Can I apply a second coat of ZEVA?) For additional information.

9. How do I remove my nail polish?
Warning…. there’s controversy with this one!  Many experts will tell you that “gentle/natural” removers are better. We believe that these non-acetone and “natural” removers (that obviously contain sufficiently strong chemicals to remove nail polish) require more time scrubbing, more exposure time on the nail plate – and thus, cause more damage to the nail plate than acetone. There’s a growing opinion (we agree) that All nail polish removers are hard on the nail plate and the best method is to remove the polish as quickly as possible, using an acetone remover.  Here’s what we suggest: When you are ready to remove your polish, turn on the warm water in your sink and let it run. Over the sink, saturate a cotton ball with acetone and quickly remove your polish. It will only takes a few seconds and it’s off. Put the cotton ball under the running water and wash your hands and nails with soap and water. Squeeze out the cotton ball and toss it. Allow your nails to dry for 10 minutes before you apply polish.   

NAIL BITING 

1. Can ZEVA help me stop biting my nails? Yes! Nail biting is so frustrating! I know, I bit my nails for 30 years. It’s embarrassing, unsightly, and if bitten short enough, they hurt or even bleed. It’s a habit that is difficult to stop – without the right knowledge and correct tools. That said … If you spend a couple of  minutes reading the following info, we’ll explain why you are biting and how we can help you stop. OK…. Nail biting usually starts at an early age. There’s no consensus why kids start biting. “Experts” think it may be related to stress, anxiety or boredom. Regardless, it’s estimated that 20% of us  bite or pick our nails and cuticles. Almost all remedies (other than ZEVA) focus on applying a bitter substance to hands and nails to deter the biter. This is a temporary remedy, at best, as it does not address the actual cause of the nail biting or permanently change the behavior.  We'll break the habit down into segments so you will understand why you bite your nails and then explain how ZEVA can help you permanently end this habit.

Understanding The Components of the Nail Biting Habit: A habit is an unconscious behavior, in response to a trigger, to achieve a reward. For nail biting – it’s feeling a rough edge, putting your finger in your mouth and biting the edge to make it smooth. Your teeth never get the nail smooth and no matter what you’ve tried, it doesn’t stop. We can help. Read on….

The Trigger / The Response  /  The Reward  = The Habit

The Trigger:  Nail biters rub their fingernails, looking for rough edges. Feeling a rough edge Triggers our  brain to respond. We respond with an unconscious behavior most of us have developed over many, many years.  

The Response: Once a rough edge is detected, we bring our finger to our mouth. This physical reaction is the (unconscious) Response we’ve created from repeating and reinforcing this behavior many   thousands of times over many years.  

The Reward: We put our finger in our mouth and our nail between our teeth. We now bite the nail - to smooth it and eliminate the roughness. This is the Reward. It somehow satisfies our mental  desire to smooth the roughness on our nail.

The Habit Loop: We repeat this behavior (Trigger/Response/Reward) over 100 times a day (this is called THE HABIT LOOP).  All of us know this behavior is not desired or rational. Unfortunately, this habit becomes well established and the behavior is almost impossible (as you know) to stop.

How ZEVA can help: ZEVA 5-Piece Natural Nail Care System: About 20 years ago we developed a natural nail care system that combined 5 professional nail care tools – in 1 kit. It was designed to make natural nails look healthy and beautiful. It also provided an added bonus. It gave nail biters the means to permanently end their habit. What does it do: It removes all the rough, dead skin, around the fingernail, that Trigger the urge to bite. It files the nail tips smooth, even if they are bitten way down, to remove that Trigger. It hydrates the cuticles and skin around the nails to make it soft – reducing the urge to bite. And finally, it buffs the nail surface as smooth, glass-like finish.

Why does it work? It easily removes all the triggers that tell your brain to put your fingers in your mouth. And, because your nails, and the skin around them is now smooth, it creates the pleasant desire to rub your nails – INSTEAD OF BITING THEM! This really works and tens of thousands of our customers can attest.

The ZEVA 5-Piece Natural Nail Care System is $39.99.  And, it lasts for years. There are no auto subscriptions, no monthly refills, no auto-billing – nothing!  And, since we know it works, we guarantee it.  We’ve helped over 1 million people have beautiful nails – we can help you too.