By Aisling Keenan
14th Aug 2019
14th Aug 2019
My nail technician is a genius when it comes to manicures, but a lot of what happens your nails relies on good home care. I’ll admit, I don’t always follow my own rules. But here they are nonetheless.
Gosia, my long-suffering, very dedicated and insanely talented nail gal has been doing my nails for three years, every fortnight like clockwork. And every fortnight, like clockwork, I anticipate being told off for one of my many nail-related bad habits.
I pick my cuticles. I bite my nails when I’m anxious. In the past, I’ve picked at my Shellac. I break all the cardinal rules of nail care, and in spite of Gosia’s best efforts to reprimand me, I still forget myself from time to time.
Why you’re dry
My problems stem from dryness, I think. There are so many reasons your nails could be breaking or your cuticles could be flaky, but most of them come down to just that – dryness. If your nails and skin are well hydrated, you’ll avoid a lot of the issues you might get the side-eye from your nail tech for. Really, there are two ways to do this.
CND Solar Oil Cuticle Conditioner
The skin around your nail needs to be nourished in order for a healthy nail to grow. A good cuticle oil will make that happen, if applied regularly. I am now trained to use cuticle oil every night before bed, and it’s become part of my night time ritual.
Alpha H Age Delay Hand and Cuticle Cream
Likewise, a really great handcream is key. I use this one every night before bed, I really slather it on, but I also have a handcream in every handbag, one in my car, one at my desk and I just apply the whole time. Especially after I wash my hands, but any time I’m tempted to pick my cuticles or bite my nails.
Read more: This is why you should never peel off your gel nails
Read more: These are the biggest nail faux pas, according to the experts
Read more: Trying to cut back on that shellac habit? Here’s how to do the perfect at-home manicure
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