Hands – the most visible parts of your body – often receive little care and attention. Overlooking your hands can result in various problems, such as dry, cracked skin, brittle nails, and an ugly appearance. During chilly winter months, their condition can even worsen.
Remember, the health and appearance of your hands and nails represent how well they’re cared for. That’s why it’s necessary to adopt a proper hand and nail care routine to make them healthier and attractive.
Based on the guidelines of top beauty experts, we’ve crafted an ultimate hand and nail care guide for you. Continue reading to break down a step-by-step routine to achieve softer, smoother, and youthful-looking hands and nails.
1. Regular Moisturization
One of the best ways is to hydrate your hands using rich, nourishing hand balm or cream. Shop for products containing ingredients like:
- Shea butter
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
All of which can lock in moisture and improve skin elasticity. To give your hands an extra boost, apply a thick layer before bed and wear cotton-made gloves overnight. This will help the cream penetrate deeply into the skin.
2. Gentle Exfoliation
Treat your hands using a gentle scrub once a week. It will remove dead skin cells and enhance circulation, which is necessary for refreshing your hands.
You can have two options: either create a DIY scrub using sugar and olive oil or opt for a store-bought version with soothing botanical extracts. The choice is yours. Once you’re done with scrubbing, rinse and apply moisturiser for incredibly soft skin.
3. Nail Care Routine
If you trim and file your nails regularly, they remain strong and healthy. The best approach is to use a nail strengthener or hardener if you have weak nails.
Remember to push back your cuticles gently to maintain a neat appearance. Wondering how? Use a cuticle pusher or wooden stick. To prevent dryness, it’s advisable to moisturise your cuticles by applying a dedicated oil or cream.
4. Sun Protection
Excessive sun exposure can lead to dehydration, resulting in wrinkles, a rough skin texture, age spots, and premature aging. To protect your hands from sun damage, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make it a habit to apply sunscreen to your hands before going out, throughout the day, and especially after washing them.
5. Healthy Diet and Hydration
It’s time to nourish your body from the inside out. Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Incorporate food dense in biotin, vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids, such as nuts, seeds, avocado, and fatty fish.
Additionally, you should drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep yourself well-hydrated. Consume fresh juices of fruits and vegetables containing over 80-90% water, like cucumber, oranges, and watermelon. Once you maintain a proper hydration level, your hands and nails will remain healthier and shinier for the long term.
Final Words
When you incorporate these practices into your everyday routine, you can ensure that your hands and nails aren’t only aesthetically pleasing but also remain healthy and resilient. Just stick to that routine and achieve impressive hands and nails.
