TIPS & TRICKSFOR HEALTHY NAILS

Are you ready to elevate your nail game? Healthy nails go beyond aesthetics; they are an indication of your overall health and well-being. If you’ve ever suffered with brittle, weak or discoloured nails, you’re certainly not alone. With the right care, you can achieve strong, beautiful nails that will help you feel confident and polished every day.

But before we start, what do healthy nails actually look like?

A healthy nail should be a consistent pinkish-white colour, smooth to the touch with a natural sheen, and strong yet flexible. Furthermore, there should be no signs of lifting, peeling or damage to the nail plate, and no dry, overgrown cuticles. On the other hand, unhealthy nails may be brittle, exhibit discolouration or vary in thickness. Don’t panic if your nails have any of these characteristics.

1. KEEP NAILS CLEAN AND DRY

Keeping nails clean and dry nails is a simple way to keep them healthy, as exposure to excessive moisture can lead to soft, peeling nails. Be sure to pat them dry with a soft towel after washing your hands or doing the dishes. Whenever possible, wear gloves, choose a mild soap like our Cleanse + Condition Hand Cleanser, and apply Soft + Supple Hand Cream after contact with water to instantly replenish lost moisture.

2. MOISTURISE, MOISTURISE, MOISTURISE

Your nails need hydration to stay healthy, just like your skin. Apply Soft + Supple Hand Cream, Nourish + Nurture Nail and Cuticle Oil or Refine + Pamper Cuticle Cream daily (ideally in the morning and at night) to keep your cuticles and nail beds hydrated. Doing so will help promote healthy nail growth and prevent hangnails.

3. TRIM AND FILE REGULARLY WITH CARE

Help prevent breakage and keep nails looking neat by regularly trimming and filing your nails. Use the Neat + Tidy Nail Clippers to trim your nails straight across, then gently shape with a Neat + Tidy Emery Board customised to your nail type. It’s important to always file in one direction instead of using a back-and-forth motion to avoid weakening the nails and causing micro-tears. If you lead an active lifestyle or your nails are prone to breakage, we recommend keeping your nail length shorter to reduce the risk of breaking, cracking or splitting.

4. PROTECT YOUR NAILS

When completing household chores or gardening, wear gloves whenever possible to offer your nails protection from dirt, harsh chemicals, and excessive moisture. Additionally, in the winter months when the temperature starts to drop, wear gloves to help prevent the drying effect of the cold air which can lead to moisture loss and brittleness.

5. AVOID HARSH NAIL PRODUCTS

Many nail products, including nail varnishes, removers, and treatments, often contain harsh chemicals like Formaldehyde, Toluene, and Acetone. We recommend to always read the ingredients list and reach for products that are free from these harmful ingredients, like our Mii Manicure and Pedicure range.

6. EAT A BALANCED DIET

Like your skin, nails reflect your overall health and well-being, so a balanced diet is critical. Foods rich in Biotin, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids can help strengthen your nails. Getting your daily dose of Calcium found in milk, cheese, yoghurt, leafy greens, tofu and high-quality protein is also important e.g. eggs, nuts, seeds, lean meat, tofu, legumes and fish, for optimal nail health.

7. TREAT YOUR NAILS WITH CARE

Although it might seem practical at the time, using your nails as tools can cause long-term damage. Nails aren’t built to handle the stress and force involved in tasks like opening cans, removing labels, or unfastening key rings. Such activities can result in chipping, cracking, or even breaking your nails, which may lead to discomfort and potential infections. Moreover, relying on your nails for these tasks can weaken them, increasing their vulnerability to further damage.

8. KEEP HYDRATED

Ensuring you drink plenty of water is essential for overall well-being, including the health of your nails as dehydration can lead to nails that are more prone to breaking or peeling. As per the recommended guidelines, aim to drink at least 8 glasses or 2L of water every day.

9. KICK THE NAIL BITING HABIT

Although biting your nails or picking at your cuticles might offer temporary relief, these habits can damage the nail bed, leading to uneven or brittle nails and potentially causing infections and inflammation. If you’re using these habits as a stress-relief method, we recommend exploring alternative techniques to prevent long-term damage and maintain nail strength. If nail breakage or splitting is an issue, keeping your nails short, using a strengthening base coat, and keeping a nail file handy can help reinforce and protect them.

10. VISIT A PROFESSIONAL

If you’re experiencing persistent nail issues, it might be time to consult a professional. A qualified nail technician can offer treatments and advice tailored to your specific nail needs.

By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to achieving healthy, strong, and beautiful nails. Remember, consistency is key, so make nail care a regular part of your self-care regimen.