Nails are tricky little things; from creating the perfect shape to avoiding those breakages. As I write this, I am looking down at chips in my manicure that are giving me super sad feelings (a huge no-no for a beauty assistant). We all have days when our nails aren’t playing ball but here are a few tips to take better care of your nails and reasons why they are too happy right now.
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The Wreckage: Stained Nails
Stained nails or yellowing is probably the most unsightly problem of the bunch and the first instinct is to cover it up with coats and coats of nail polish. Think again. Nails become stained by nail polish, mainly dark colours or highly pigmented shades like red, and neglecting to apply a base coat to protect the nail. Regardless of how much nail polish remover you use, the damage is already done. So, stop. Giving your nails a break from colour can help to fade out the stains. As the nail grows out, the stains become lighter and lighter.
Try applying a light colour or a strengthening nail base in the interim until your nails look and feel better.
Revlon Nail Brightener, R135
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The Wreckage: Splinters
Dryness and nails never go well together so forgetting to spend that extra 2 minutes moisturising your nails every day can lead to splintered nails and a sad you. Splintering is caused by a lack of moisture in the nail; like any protein in the body, dryness leads to brittleness and breakage. You can usually spot this problem when you see tiny flakes or scales of the top layer lifting off the nail or the nail eventually tearing on the sides.
Try rubbing a cuticle oil on the cuticle, nail bed and all over the nail surface in tiny circular motions everyday. This will bring moisture back into the nail and it will start growing out splinter-free.
Essence Studio Nails Caring Nail Oil, R38.95
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The Wreckage: Brittle
Brittle nails can be caused by dryness but is mostly due to lack of strength in the nail. The nail surface has weakened so it struggles to take any pressure from filing, nail polish and buffing. A big factor in the cause of brittle nails is insufficient care when removing manicures, especially gel or shellac. Incorrect removal of these actually rips off the top layer of the nail, making it weaker and weaker.
Try getting your gel or shellac manicure by a professional and guide them to care for your nails if you see that they being a bit rough (a great manicurist should know exactly how to care for your nails). Avoid doing bumper to bumper gel or shellac; go bare nails for a week or so or opt for a basic paint if your nails have to look perfect for an event.
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The post How To Fix Your Nails Before They’re Wrecked appeared first on Marie Claire - South Africa.
