FILING SYSTEM
POLISH YOUR ROUTINE BY EXTENDING THE SELF LOVE FROM TIP TO TOE
Sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner and cleansers — when we think of our beauty regimes, our hair and skin certainly get the royal treatment. When was the last time you shared the love with your nails?
If your nails are weak and prone to breaking, Kester Black director Anna Ross says there could be something missing from your diet or lifestyle.
“Weak nails are normally always a sign of deficiency in the body of some kind,” Anna says. “It sounds tragic, but don’t worry, it’s not all bad. It basically means your blood isn’t nourishing your nails.
“We recommend building your blood with iron-rich food and getting some much needed rest and relaxation.
“It is true that nails become brittle with age, however, living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a healthy diet will help to improve the overall health of your nail.”
Just like your skin, your nails need moisture and will readily absorb it. Anna recommends opting for products with vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties that protect nails from ageing and can change the colour from yellow to a healthy pink.
“There are lots of products on the market that claim to nourish the nail and encourage growth,” Anna says.
“Our nail polish removers have Vitamin E oil in them to support healthy growth and promote moisture in the nail plate.
“We use organic ingredients wherever possible and our products are cruelty free and vegan, making them not only good for your nails but good for the planet.”
There’s a nail neighbour that needs TLC too — the cuticle.
Cuticles form a protective seal around the base of your nail, keeping the area free from germs and infection. If you’re looking after your cuticles, you’re much more likely to have healthy nails.
“Your cuticles are the keepers of your nail health,” Anna says.
“If you take care of your cuticles they’ll reward you with strong, healthy nails.
“Cuticle oil is a good way to keep your cuticles nourished and in turn your nails will be stronger and healthier.
“If your cuticles do become a little unruly, we recommend using some cuticle oil and a nail tool to push them back in preparation for a DIY mani or just as part of your beauty routine.”
Finally, opt for nail polish that is free from toxic chemicals — nasties to steer clear of include formaldehyde, camphor and parabens. Kester Black’s range of varnishes are 10-free, meaning they’re free from 10 known toxic polish ingredients, but other brands also stock 3-free and 7-free ranges.
“Obviously we are a little biased, but we always recommend using nail polish that is 10-free and breathable,” Anna says.