As if we weren’t already juggling enough with the changing of the seasons – from updating our wardrobe to stoking the fireplace – you may also want to consider switching up your nail care routine. With temperature dips and dramatic drops in humidity, your manicure needs to adjust too, in order to stay looking its best. Here we look at the key climate changes to be aware of in each season, and the nail care tips to go along with them.
1. Preparing Your Nails for Climate Fluctuations
As the colder winter months and hotter summer months rapidly approach, you may start to notice changes in your nails which is due to climate fluctuations. Your nails may become brittle in the winter and soft in the summer, sometimes even cracking, which will cause them to be weak and unruly. Here are a few tips to follow when preparing your nails for the climate change:
- Moisturize – Give your nails natural oils and help to prevent any dryness from occurring due to the winter air. Use oils or creams with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E or shea butter to lock in the hydration.
- Always Wear Gloves – Protect your nails from the cold air by wearing gloves when going outside. This will keep your nails from drying out and helps protect them from cracking or splitting.
- Keep Your Nails Trimmed – Long nails can be a breeding ground for bacteria and infections which can weaken your nails in the long run. Trim them regularly and file them down, do this on a weekly basis to keep them looking healthy and strong.
- Use Nail Strengtheners – Invest in a good nail strengthener that can help to protect your nails in the case of extreme weather fluctuations. These too can come with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe or tea tree oil.
In addition to these tips, make sure to use a nail file and buffer to shape and polish your nails. Doing this will help prevent any damage from occurring due to friction and extend your mani/pedi. Also, use a cuticle oil or cream to help keep your cuticles soft and hydrated, this will help your nails to remain healthy and strong through any climate change.
To further protect your nails from climate fluctuations, try to invest in products with moisturizing or protective ingredients like shea butter, Vitamin E, coconut oil, aloe, and more. These ingredients are essential to keeping your nails looking great and replenished despite any climate changes.
Your nails are delicate and can easily be affected by climate changes, so remember to follow these tips above to keep them in great condition. Doing so will help your healthy, vibrant nails stay looking beautiful for much longer.
2. Summer Nail Care for Hot Weather
Caring for beautiful nails during the summer heat is a must for those wanting to look their best. Here are a few tips to help maintain perfect nail care this summer:
- Trim your nails regularly: This is the simplest and most important step of all. Keep your nails trimmed and clean for a more professional look. Make sure each nail is evenly cut in order to keep a neat appearance.
- Apply a top coat: A top coat helps protect your nails and keep them healthy during the summer. It also helps keep your manicure looking fresh for days.
- Keep your nails hydrated: It’s important to hydrate your nails, especially if they are exposed to the hot summer sun. Use a hand cream that contains nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E and shea butter to give your nails the needed moisture.
- Keep your nails clean: Make sure to wash your hands often, as dirt, bacteria, and other particles can easily accumulate on the nails and cause irritation.
- Protection from direct sunlight: Even with regular sunscreen application, it is best to avoid putting your nails in direct sunlight, as this can leave them looking dull and lifeless.
- Avoid excessive activities: Excessive activities such as gardening, swimming, and various sports can cause damage to your nails. Wear gloves whenever possible or try to keep your hands out of harm’s way.
By following these tips, you can keep your nails looking their best despite hot weather. Take good care of your hands and nails and you’ll have that sunny, summer-ready style in no time!
3. Winter Nail Care for Chilly Temperatures
Winter is upon us, and along with the chilly temperatures, our nails need a little extra attention to help them stay healthy during the cold months. Here’s what to keep in mind for your winter nail care routine.
Exfoliation
Gently scrubbing your nails, with a nail file or a chamois buffer, can help get rid of built up dead skin, and keep your fingertips looking healthier. Making this part of your weekly routine can limit your nails from becoming dry, flaky, or weak.
Moisturize
Keeping your nails and cuticles hydrated can make all the difference. Use a cuticle oil and work it into the nail beds and massage it around the nail. Do this every few days to keep them healthy and supple. Keeping your nails hydrated helps resist breakage and can prevent infections.
Protection
Chapped and dry fingertips can make your nails brittle. An old trick is to paint your nails with a clear base coat, to help protect them from the elements. You can also use a thicker lotion to give your nails a extra layer of protection. Wearing gloves while outdoors in cold temperatures can do wonders for your nails.
Proper Tools
- Invest in quality nail scissors and clippers.
- Soak, don’t soak; make sure to sanitize your nail tools between uses.
- Pick up smaller files and buffers; they are easier to handle in tighter areas.
- Don’t skimp on your nail polish remover; it can really damage the nail.
Proper Diet
Last but not least, the foods you eat are essential for healthy nails. Include plenty of foods such as lean meats, walnuts, and dark leafy greens, all rich in zinc, iron, protein, and biotin. Collagen is another beneficial food to help strengthen the nails from the inside-out.
4. Creative Approaches to Nail Care in Changing Seasons
You don’t have to wait for a professional nail salon appointment to have sturdy, beautiful nails. With a few creative approaches, you can keep them looking good and protect them from seasonal changes without spending a lot of money.
- Keep Hydrated: Dry nails crack easily, so remember to drink water often when the weather is changing. Staying hydrated can help moisturize your nails and keep them healthy.
- Regular Trimming: Keeping your nails at a reasonable length will also help them from drying out and cracking. Aim for trimming them once a week to maintain their condition.
- Oil Massage: Ignore the details of the nail art design and treat yourself to an occasional oil massage. Oils like jojoba, coconut, and almond are great for your nails and promote growth and health. Massage them in circular motions from the base to the tips for a few minutes.
- Wear Gloves: In the winter, wearing gloves can help protect your nails from the cold. They are especially helpful if you are doing a lot of outdoor activities or chores in freezing weather.
- Get a Moisturizer: Purchase a good moisturizer specifically for nails and cuticles. Applying this regularly will help keep your nails from becoming brittle and breaking easily.
Changing seasons can bring hazards for your nails, but these creative approaches can help you keep them looking good and healthy.
We hope this article has helped you understand that nail care can be adapted to fit any season, so you can keep your nails looking as perfect as possible in whatever kind of climate. Don’t forget to keep up with your nail care routine no matter what time of year and you’ll have fabulous nails all year round!
