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Nail colors may change every season—from light hues in summer to deep, moody shades in winter—but one thing is certain: it’s important to maintain a set of strong, photo-worthy nails at all times. Read below for nine natural nail care tips that will help you show off your flawless manicure.
1. Massage Your Cuticles
Massaging your cuticles promotes blood flow to your nails and in turn stimulates nail growth. Use the Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Oil (US $20; AED/SAR 73) to hydrate and protect your cuticles and prevent hangnails or peeling.
2. Don’t Cut Your Cuticles
Removing your cuticles makes your nails susceptible to infection. Instead of cutting them, gently press them back using a cuticle pusher. The Sephora Collection Push Back Cuticle Pusher (US $14; AED/SAR 51) is a great double-ended tool for gently pressing the cuticles back.
3. Don’t Forget to File
Filing your nails prevents any chips or jagged edges from splitting further. Make sure to file your nails in one direction (as opposed to back-and-forth) using a cushion file, such as the Tweezerman Filemate (US $5; AED/SAR 18). Cushioned files are gentler on the skin around your nails.
4. Limit Your Exposure to Water
Water not only ruins a great manicure, but it also weakens nails. It saturates into the nail bed, causing your nails to swell. Make sure to use rubber gloves when doing the dishes or exposing your nails to harsh chemicals. You can also opt for a dry manicure; the technique forgoes soaking your hands.
5. Always Use a Basecoat
A good basecoat not only prolongs the lifespan of your manicure, but it also prevents dark nail colors from staining. Use the Formula X Prime Base Coat (US $11; AED/SAR 40) to get the most out of your polish.
6. Nail Strengtheners Work
A good nail strengthener, such as the Formula X Sheer Strength (US $13; AED/SAR 48), prevents nails from breaking and peeling, and promotes nail growth. This product also provides a pop of color for those who want to give nail polish a rest.
7. Moisturize Your Hands
Dry hands can detract from a set of great nails. Make sure to always keep your hands hydrated by regularly applying a liberal amount of lotion, such as the Crabtree & Evelyn Gardeners Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy (US $22; AED/SAR 80).
8. Change Your Diet
The food that you consume can seriously impact the overall health and appearance of your nails. Food items rich in vitamin H, including bananas, eggs, peanuts, and salmon, assist nail strength and growth. Increase your protein intake by adding chicken, eggs, whole grains, and seafood to your diet Foods high in protein also promotefor healthier nails (and hair).
9. Avoid Artificial Nails
Artificial nails are tempting for their ability to add instant length, but the truth is that acrylic nails can cause long-term damage to your real set. Underneath the false add-ons, your nails can’t breath, which causes them to weaken. The removal process of acrylic nails also involves vigorous sanding and filing, which can be too aggressive.
—Khaoula Ghanem
