DISCO digits

GET KILLER NATURAL NAILS

Hands up who wants party nails? Manicurist Pamela Laird shares her tips and top trends for Christmas

Wouldn’t you know it – just at the time of year when you can amp up the glam factor with your polish – holographic glitter anyone? – is the very time when your nails are at their weakest. The cold, harsh winter weather plays havoc with our cuticles, not to mention the drying effects of washing our hands more frequently to stave off colds and ’flu.

Keeping your nail bed healthy is the first step to gorgeous party nails. “People tend to change their skin routine during winter. They opt for a more nourishing serum or mask in their routine, but they forget that nails need the same TLC to prevent peeling from dryness and ragged cuticles,” explains Pamela Laird (pamelalaird.ie).

Surprisingly, the first mistake people make is to load up on hydration, which seems like the logical thing to do when dealing with dry nails, but Pamela explains why it can actually be counterproductive: “Adding extra moisture can lead to a build up of dead skin. What you really want is a cuticle eraser like Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover, which acts like a glycolic peel for your nails. It will break down excess dead skin and hang nails, allowing for better absorption of your usual moisturiser or cuticle oil.” Best of all, Pamela reveals that it doubles up for feet. “Just apply the blue gel with the pointed applicator – it says 15 seconds but if your nails are bad you can leave it on and work your way up to five minutes.” Move away from strengthening formulas which can be drying and choose hydrating or moisturising options, preferably with hydrating peptides and essential oils. Remember, even if you aren’t using colour, wear a coat of clear polish, to protect the nails from water and lock the moisture in.

If you clip your nails, always file them afterwards at a 90-degree angle, side to centre, to seal the edge.