As summer beckons with its promise of getting away from it all to sun, sea and sand ensuring your nails not only look fabulous but also withstand everything the heat throws at them becomes essential. Maintaining the integrity and beauty of your gel polish manicure during the summer requires more than just a professional application; it needs a regimen that protects and preserves. Here’s your comprehensive guide to keeping your summer holiday nails looking as pristine as the day they were done.
Stay Hydrated:
Moisture is paramount, not just for your body but also for your nails. Moisturising is important at any of time of the year but sun exposure, swimming, and air conditioning can strip moisture from your nails, leading to brittleness and peeling. To combat this, make it a daily ritual to apply Glitterbels cuticle oil twice a day. Enriched with Vitamin E this nourishing oil penetrates deeply to hydrate the nail bed and keep the cuticles supple. This simple step not only ensures your nails remain hydrated but also maintains the smooth, glossy appearance of your gel polish. Our cuticle oil also smells amazing! Don’t just take our word for it - check out our reviews here.
Sunscreen Is a Must:
Your hands are as vulnerable to UV rays as the rest of your body. Whilst gel polish doesn't fade as quickly as traditional nail polish, prolonged UV exposure can still cause it to lose lustre. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your hands whenever you reapply it to your face and body. This protects both your skin and the vibrancy of your nail colour, preventing any sun-induced discolouration.
Limit Water Exposure:
While soaking up the sun by the sea or pool is a quintessential part of any summer holiday, it's important to manage how much time your nails spend in the water. Nails can absorb up to four times their weight in water, causing the natural nail to expand. This expansion and subsequent shrinking can lead to gel polish chipping or peeling. Additionally, chlorine and sea salt can have adverse effects on your manicure. Chlorine may lead to discolouration, while sea salt can dehydrate your nails, making them more brittle. After swimming, rinse your hands with fresh water and dry them thoroughly to mitigate these effects. Some ingredients in sunscreens and insect repellents, specifically N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET), can also cause discolouration of nail products. Opting for products without DEET can help maintain the integrity and appearance of your gel polish.
Regular Top Coat Applications:
A top coat is not just a finishing touch; it's a barrier against the elements. Refresh your top coat every few days to maintain a high-gloss finish and add an extra layer of protection against scratches and chips.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Summer can mean more exposure to chlorine from pools, salt from the sea, and chemicals from sunscreens or insect repellants. These can weaken your gel polish’s adhesion. Where possible, rinse your hands with fresh water after swimming and dry them thoroughly. When applying repellants or lotions, use a brush or pad to keep them off your nails.
Minor Repairs and Maintenance:
Even with all precautions, the occasional chip or lift might occur. Instead of attempting DIY repairs, it's advisable to book regular touch-ups with your nail technician. Professional maintenance not only ensures that any minor damage is expertly handled but also helps extend the lifespan and beauty of your gel nails. Scheduling regular appointments allows your technician to address chips promptly, preventing further damage and keeping your nails looking immaculate.
Following these steps can significantly extend the life and beauty of your summer holiday nails. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy vibrant, durable gel nails that withstand the challenges of any summer adventure, leaving you free to soak up every blissful moment of your holiday and if you need any nail art tips for your holidays check this out.