Get summer-ready: Essential tips for strong, healthy nails

While we make it a point to remind ourselves of the damage that exposure to the sun can cause to our skin, we forget that there are other parts of the body that need equal attention. The intense summer heat, particularly in India, can cause significant damage if you venture outdoors without adequate protection and preventive measures. 

Our nails might seem insignificant to us. Granted, they are not directly responsible for our survival but they serve several important functions that contribute to our comfort and well-being. Nails act as an indicator of our internal mechanism; they tell us when something isn’t quite right and needs our attention through changing texture, strength and colour. They also protect the sensitive skin on our fingertips and toes, as well as help us perform daily tasks with ease. 

The list of benefits goes on, so, the importance of caring for them cannot be overstated. Sharmila Thanki, founder and director TIP&TOE Nails Lashes & Brows along with Dr Meghna Mour, the dermatologist and founder of Skuccii Supercliniq, in a conversation with indianexpress.com, suggest the following tips to achieve healthy, polished pearls this summer. 

Magic of hydration

In the scorching summer heat, keeping the body hydrated can help it function better. Thanki advises, “Keep your nails hydrated by applying a moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles regularly.” She adds that your nails can become weak if you are dehydrated.

Dr Mour explains, “Hydrate the cuticle area regularly with nourishing creams or natural oils like castor oil to promote hydration and nail growth.” Make sure to drink plenty of water and consume water-rich fruits and vegetables to maintain the strength of your nails.

Ditch the dryness

Thanki cautions, “Excessive exposure to water, especially from swimming pools, can weaken nails and make them more prone to breakage. After swimming or prolonged exposure to water, make sure to thoroughly dry your nails to prevent them from becoming soft and brittle.”

Additionally, keeping your nails dry can help keep infections at bay. Dr Mour emphasises, “To keep your nails in top condition, it is imperative to keep them clean, dry, and well-trimmed.” Thanki suggests that one must use gloves when there are chances of “prolonged contact with water” including doing the dishes and other household chores. 

Keeping your nails dry during summers can help keep infections at bay (Source: Freepik)

Block the rays

Protection from the harmful rays of the Sun is essential during summers. While we invest significantly in sunscreen and apply it generously to our skin, we forget that our nails can also get damaged by prolonged exposure to the harmful ultraviolet radiations.

Thanki suggests, “Consider using a nail polish that contains UV protection or applying a clear topcoat with SPF to shield your nails from the sun. Additionally, wearing gloves while gardening or performing other outdoor activities can help protect your nails from sun damage.” 

Upgrade your nail kit

Dr Mour strongly advises everyone to use sterilised manicure and pedicure tools as this can help prevent the nails from getting damaged.

“Use the right tools and techniques when caring for your nails. Avoid using metal tools to push back cuticles, as they can cause damage and increase the risk of infection,” Thanki says.

In place of metal tools, buy wooden or rubber cuticle pushers, along with clean and sharp nail cutters or files, to help prevent your nails from splitting or peeling off, she advises.

Biotin boost

Biotin is known for helping in keratin production. Keratin is a protein that forms an essential component of maintaining healthy nails, hair and skin. Consuming biotin supplements can help prevent breakage and strengthen the nails.

Dr Mour prescribes adding “biotin-rich nutrients or supplements into your diet” as it will promote overall health of your nails.  

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