Welcome to the Beauty Garden blog! Today, we're diving into one of the most common questions we get: "How can I keep my nails healthy and strong between salon visits?" While regular professional care is key, your at-home routine makes a huge difference. Here are five essential tips from our expert nail technicians.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Just like your skin and hair, your nails and cuticles need moisture to stay healthy. Dehydration can lead to brittleness, splitting, and hangnails. Make it a daily habit to apply cuticle oil or a nourishing hand cream, especially after washing your hands or showering to lock in moisture.
2. File, Don't Saw
Aggressive back-and-forth filing (sawing) can cause micro-tears in your nail, leading to peeling and breakage. Instead, file your nails gently in one direction. We recommend a crystal or glass nail file, which seals the nail edge as it files, preventing damage.
"Think of filing as sculpting, not sanding. Be gentle and work from the side of the nail towards the center to create your desired shape."
3. Be Kind to Your Cuticles
Your cuticles are there for a reason—they act as a natural barrier to protect your nail matrix from bacteria. Never cut your cuticles! Instead, after a shower or soaking your hands, gently push them back with a soft-tipped cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick wrapped in cotton.
4. Wear Gloves for Chores
Prolonged exposure to water and harsh cleaning chemicals can strip your nails of their natural oils, leaving them weak and dry. Protect them by wearing rubber gloves when washing dishes, gardening, or using cleaning products. It's a simple step that makes a world of difference.
5. Never Peel Off Gel Polish
We know it can be tempting, but peeling off your gel or shellac manicure is one of the most damaging things you can do. When you peel off the polish, you're also peeling off the top layers of your natural nail, leaving it thin and weak. Always have gel polish removed professionally or follow the proper soak-off procedure at home.