Introduction
Nail care is essential for keeping your hands and feet looking their best. Whether you’re looking to grow longer, healthier nails or simply keep them looking glossy and hydrated, the right nail care products can make a world of difference. With the availability of a variety of products on the market, it can be hard deciding which are the best for achieving a natural, healthy look. We’ve rounded up the best nail care products to help you achieve a top-to-toe perfect manicure – without the salon price tag.
Tips for Maintaining A Healthy Nail
In order to get the most from your manicure, it’s important to practice good nail care. Here are our top tips for keeping your nails healthy and looking their best:
• Use a nail file to maintain shape: Whether natural or polished nails, a nail file is essential for keeping your nails healthy. Avoid using a metal file as this is too harsh for natural nails and can cause them to break and split. Choose a fine-grit glass or crystal file which can buff the nail and help seal the edges, reducing access moisture which can cause breakages.
Avoid using a metal file as this is too harsh for natural nails and can cause them to break and split.
• Soak nails in warm water: Soaking your nails helps to soften both the cuticles and the nail, making the manicure easier. Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of your favourite oil and submerge your fingertips for around 10 minutes. This will help to break down any dirt or grime that could be clogging the nail bed and make for a more comfortable manicure.
Soaking your nails helps to soften both the cuticles and the nail, making the manicure easier.
• Moisturise your hands: Hydrated nails are strong and healthy nails. Forgo the handsanitizer filled with bad-for-you ingredients and opt for a nourishing, natural moisturiser instead. Use any opportunities of downtime, such as when in front of the television or while commuting, to apply and massage your hands. This will increase blood circulation and keep your hands hydrated.
For the best results, always make sure you start with clean and prepped nails. To get your nails in perfect order, grab everything you need below:
• Cuticle Oil: Every manicure starts with cuticles – keeping these soft and hydrated is key to achieving a clean look. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, cuticle oil helps to protect, condition and nourish the nail and cuticle, while encouraging healthy nail growth. Look for cuticle oils that contain natural oils and butters, such as avocado, almond, and jojoba, for the best nourishment.
Every manicure starts with cuticles – keeping these soft and hydrated is key to achieving a clean look.
• Nail Strengthener: Weak and brittle nails can be an ongoing problem and need looking after. Strengtheners are just as important as regular moisturizers and treatments. Strengthening formulas help to fill any nail ridges and strengthen the nail base for fewer breaks and tears. Choose formulas enriched with proteins, vitamins, and essential oils for best results.
• Nail Hydrator: Hydrate and nourish nails with a serum or balm. Being exposed to the elements, our nails can become easily dehydrated and brittle, leaving them prone to breakage. Look for ingredients such as keratin and shea butter which can help to replenish moisture and protect brittle nails.
Hydrate and nourish nails with a serum or balm.
• Base and Top Coat: These are essential for both natural and polished nails as they help to seal in the colour and provide a protective layer which prevents staining or discolouration. Coloured polishes which don’t have a protective base or top coat will mean your nails will need much more frequent polishing. Your base coat will often depend on the colour you are wearing, choose a coat that works best on the colour you are wearing e.g. matte coat for a matte finish.
Conclusion
To sum up, there’s a wealth of products on the market that can help you achieve a natural, healthy look. By investing in a selection of quality nail care products, you can pamper your nails; giving them the protection and nourishment they need to stay in beautiful shape. Remember that a little TLC goes a long way and by using the right products, you can take your nail care routine to an exciting level.
