March 29, 2016

5 steps to stronger, healither nails

On my morning commute (unless in the rare occasion I have a seat) I like to look at other woman’s hands. I understand this sounds deeply disturbing, but I find nothing more fascinating than desiphering whether they’ve had a manicure or if it’s a DIY job, how they have managed to perfectly shape their nails and how they’ve got them to look so glossy. I then look at my own chipped, uneven nails and clumsily try and hide my hands in my pockets so no one has to go through the embarrasement of looking at them. I’ve decided I want to change the error of my ways. But how do you get stronger, healthier nails? And what’s more, how do you find the time?

That’s why I have done a little research to find 5 simple steps that we can all adopt to achieve the perfect manicured hand:

1. We’ve been filing all wrong

It’s true. For the last 10 years I have been in search of the roughest emery board out there and then taking it to my nails using a sawing back and forth motion. This only goes and cracks your nails and causes those unwanted breaks. Instead what we should be using are fine, smooth boards and file in the same direction to avoid any damage.

This professional emery board from Superdrug should do the trick! – £1.89

2. Get the Marigolds out

We need to invest in a  good pair of washing-up gloves and wear them at all times when cleaning. These will protect our nails from the harmful chemicals in cleaning products that weaken our nails.

Get your Marigolds here for £2.30

3. The obvious one

Biting and picking our nails. We are all culprits of this filthy habit but biting our nails can cause stress fractures at the corners, leading to once again, those pesky breaks. Plus, do you find yourself rubbing the tops of your nails when deep in thought? Well stop it! Rubbing your nails can cause ridges meaning your nail polish will never sit the same again.

4. It’s all about the ‘base’

Nail polish helps protect our nails. That’s why it is so important to apply both a base and top coat because not only does it make our colour last longer, it makes our nails stronger too!

Nails Inc have got it covered with a base and top coat all-in-one product – £8

5. Weekly DIY manicures

That’s right, you read correct. To make sure we are one of these women on the train with perfectly manicured hands, we need to be looking after our nails at least once a week. This includes filing, massaging those cuticles and hydrating your skin. But where do we find the time? Sometimes we need to sit back and think about what’s important. And more often than not, we need to put ourselves first in order to be fit and healthy. This means taking time to look after ourselves. Whether it’s after a bath on a Sunday morning, or while you are watching your favourite television programme, make sure you find 30 minutes to give your nails a little tlc.

So there we have it, 5 simple steps to make sure your on top of your manicure game.

Katy Ashford

@KatyJAshford

Beauty Editor