IF you were like me and your nails come way down the line on the list of things to do before a special occasion, you will know the panic of last minute nail shaping and painting usually ending in disaster!
So, I put together some facts and tips so that we all will be in manicure heaven.
Our nails are composed of laminated layers of a protein called keratin which grow from the area at the base of the nails under your cuticle. As new cells grow, older cells become hard and compacted and are eventually pushed out towards your fingertips.
Healthy fingernails are smooth without pits or grooves. They’re uniform in colour and consistency and free of spots or discoloration. Vertical ridges tend to become more prominent with age. Nails can also develop white lines or spots due to injury which grow out.
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DO NOTS
1. Abuse your nails. Don’t use your fingernails as tools to pick, poke or pry things.
2. Bite your fingernails or pick at your cuticles. Even a minor cut along your fingernails can allow bacteria to enter and cause an infection
3. Don’t pull off hangnails as this could rip live tissue cells.
4. Don’t ignore a long term problem in your nails- consult your doctor.
DO’S
1. Keep your fingernails dry and clean to prevent bacteria, fungus and other organisms from growing within your fingernails.
2. Wear gloves when washing dishes, cleaning or using harsh chemicals. Unleash your inner marigold goddess.
3. Use moisturiser regularly and rub into your fingernails and cuticles.
4. When filing nails make sure you file in one direction. File from outside to the centre, never file backwards or forwards. As this can weaken or break your nails.
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TIPS
1. Easiest way to trim your nails is when they’re soft. Soak hands in a bowl of warm water with sesame seed oil.
2. Dry nails and gently push back cuticles with a cotton tipped cuticle stick.
3. Gently buff any ridges with a buffer.
4. Rub a little almond oil into nails and cuticles.
5. Dry nails and file and ready for nail hardener.
If you are in the market for a new nail file, may I recommend Tom Pellereau. He is Lord Sugar’s apprentice. He invented the “s” shaped nail file.
While watching his sister doing her nails he felt the file looked awkward. Tom invented a two step nail file. One side is abrasive and the other is smooth. So easy to use and makes doing your nails a lot easier.
Also in the range is the “s” buffer, designed to follow the nail bed curve and create a long-lasting shine. He even invented an emergency file for your bag. It has a clever cover that will not scratch your mobile phone.
As fingernails absorb water 100 times faster than your skin, so do they lose water just as fast. In which case our hands and nails need a good hand cream and need it regularly.
A cult classic is Clarins hand and nails. It is rich silky and nourishing, as it contains sesame, Japanese mulberry and myrrh. Now coming in a larger size for better value.
Most companies now do a travel size in hand creams ideal for handbag, car or bedside locker .Anytime you get a chance put it on. I also like Sally Hansen 18 hour protective hand cream. NUXE hand and nail is also very good.
Nail biters try going for a regular manicure. I know it seems a bit daft but it works. Firstly your cuticles will look a lot better and knowing someone else will be seeing your digits on a regular basis is a great incentive.
A nail hardener is a must if you are trying to let your nails grow. Avoid products containing sulfonamide or formaldehyde as these chemicals can cause redness or irritation to the skin and use non acetone nail varnish remover.
ESSIE has a fab range of nail hardeners .Also, check out ESSIE ballet slippers, a very nice nude shade. If you want a shade that will go with everything try out SALLY HANSEN Commander in Chic 370.
It goes on very evenly and stays a few days without chipping, N0.7, stay perfect, and MAX FACTORS nailfinity also stands the test of time but remember your inner marigold Goddess.
Also take a look at CHANEL’S emprise 569 a great nude colour. Don’t forget to apply a topcoat to seal the deal.
Lads, unless you are a flamenco guitarist keep your nails short. Invest in a good nail brush and use a regular hand cream.
Clarins men’s hand cream is excellent also the body shop does a very good hemp hand cream for dry, cracked skin. Also Look out for BULLDOG a natural skincare for men.
The products are packed with essential oils to deliver superb grooming performance. No parabens or artificial colours used.
