Nail Care 101: A Winter Nail Care Routine That Can Keep Your Nails Healthy All Year Round.

Crumbly and flaky nails are highly annoying, especially during colder winter months. Even if your nails are strong and shiny, they become weak and brittle during winter. However, there is a solution. You can develop a winter care routine that’s effective all year round and keep your nails from splitting and peeling. Here are a few tips:

1. Use hand creams and lotions frequently: During winter, our body parts tend to act up, including our nails. This is because the air is drier during these months than warmer ones. Therefore, the best way to start dealing with weak and brittle nails is by applying hand creams, moisturizing lotions, and oils as much as possible. You can use these after each hand wash or before going to bed. Cuticle creams and oils are another great way to moisturize and firm your nails.

2. Avoid soaking your hands in water: Water is not your nail’s best friend during winter. Drinking your nails in water for long periods can cause them to swell and become too soft. This can lead to your nails breaking easily. You can generously use cuticle oil to regain the oils your nails need.

3. Use quality nail polishes: Poor nail polishes commonly cause chipped and brittle fingernails, regardless of the season. Many choose a nail polish based solely on its color without considering the brand. However, it’s crucial to do some research and find out which nail polish brands are safe and healthy for your nails. Wearing nail polish during winter is good because it protects your nails from peeling and breaking. It would be best to use everything from base to top coats to cover your nails all year round.

4. Avoid using alcohol-based hand products: Hand products that contain alcohol or acetone, such as hand sanitizers and nail polish removers, should be avoided. These products can dry out your nails, precisely what we want to avoid. Instead, you can use acetone-free nail polish removers and alcohol-free hand sanitizers. Acetone-free nail polish removers lack acetone but contain hydrating oils that your nails need to stay healthy and strong during winter.

5. Take care of your diet: Your diet can directly affect the health of your nails. You should eat foods high in vitamin B and drink lots of water for solid nails. You should also avoid consuming too much sugar, salt, and caffeine. These tips apply to all seasons, not just winter.

6. Keep your nails short and wear gloves: Your nails are naturally more brittle during the cold months. Longer nails are likelier to break, so keeping them faster than usual is best. Keep them smooth and filed as much as possible. Additionally, wearing gloves can help protect your hands and fingernails from the elements, keeping your nails strong and healthy all year round.