NAILING YOUR WINTER BEAUTY

Winter can be a harsh time for our nails.

Fingers are exposed to harsh, drying winds, while toes go from getting lots of air and sunshine to being hidden in heavy shoes and socks.

Not to mention, as a general rule fingernails are subjected to more chemicals during the summer months, so by the time winter comes around they can be quite damaged.

Here are some tips for keeping your nails healthy during the cooler months:

Nourish your nails: While moisturising cream may become your hands’ best friend, it’s important to add cuticle oil in your daily ritual as well — particularly with jojoba or argan oil.

Between cream and oil, it will save your nails from getting too dry.

Cover them up: Sometimes wearing gloves can be just awkward and hard work, but keeping those hands out of the harsh wind will pay off in the long run.

Contrarily, give your toenails breathing time every so often. Keep away from chemicals: Cleaning products, acetone, and — oddly enough — excess water, are all bad for nails. Wear household gloves when cleaning and try to avoid harsh chemicals as much as possible.

Hot water weakens nails so perhaps start wearing gloves when you do the washing up too — your hands will thank you for keeping them out of that drying dishwashing liquid as well.

Keep them pretty: More self-care than nail-care, don’t let your regular polish sessions go to the sidelines until summer comes back.

Bright colours can do wonders for your mood during the greyness of winter, not to mention the added plus of some pamper time.