Why opening credit cards does not harm your credit if used properly:

Opening credit cards can actually benefit your credit in several ways, provided you manage them responsibly. Here's why:

Increases Available Credit: When you open a new credit card account, it increases your total available credit. This can lower your credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit you're using compared to the total amount available. A lower utilization ratio generally reflects positively on your credit score.
Diversifies Credit Mix: Lenders like to see a mix of different types of credit accounts, such as credit cards, mortgages, and installment loans. Opening a new credit card can diversify your credit mix, which can be beneficial for your credit score.
Establishes a Positive Payment History: Making on-time payments on your new credit card can help you build a positive payment history. Payment history is one of the most significant factors influencing your credit score. By consistently making timely payments, you demonstrate to lenders that you're responsible with credit, which can boost your creditworthiness.
Builds Credit Age: The age of your credit accounts is another factor that affects your credit score. Opening a new credit card account can initially lower the average age of your credit accounts. However, over time, as you continue to use the card responsibly, the age of the account will increase, positively impacting your credit score in the long run.
Increases Available Credit Types: There are different types of credit cards available, such as secured, unsecured, rewards, and store cards. By opening different types of credit cards responsibly, you can show lenders that you can handle various credit products, which can enhance your creditworthiness.

However, it's essential to note that opening multiple credit cards within a short period can have temporary negative effects on your credit score. This is because it can result in multiple hard inquiries, which are recorded on your credit report when lenders check your credit during the application process. Additionally, new credit accounts can lower the average age of your credit history, which may also have a slight negative impact.

Overall, responsible credit card usage, including making payments on time and keeping balances low, can help you build and maintain a healthy credit profile, despite the initial impact of opening new accounts.