Are you taking part in #NaturalNailSummer? We love a colorful manicure as much as the next person, but this season, we’re embracing the clean, simple look of naked nails. We’re seeing this trend all over TikTok, and we are definitely here for it.
Giving your nails a break from polish, gels, acrylics, and more will not only save you time and money in the salon, it may just save your nails! Many nail polish removers can dry out and damage your nails over time, and if you’re a gel disciple or in the dip powder posse and frequently soak your nails, the damage can be worse, leading to breakage, dryness, peeling, and cracking. Also, wearing nail polish for long periods of time means the chemicals can seep into the nail bed, causing discoloration.
If you want to embrace #NaturalNailSummer and find that your fingers need a little TLC, we have some tips to give your natural nails their best chance to shine.
- Give nails a fresh start.
The Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System helps to whip your nails back into shape and help them grow out stronger and healthier. This three-step system is the first-ever nail treatment to feature essential nail exfoliation with Glycolic Acid. Skincare experts have been touting the benefits of exfoliating your skin for years, and research has shown that AHAs can also rejuvenate the nail. The Nail Renewal System helps to gently and effectively remove dead nail cells with both chemical and physical exfoliation (thanks to the custom tri-grit buffing wand), giving your nails a perfectly smooth finish and allowing them to better absorb the Deep Hydrating Formula in the kit. Your nails will be left with an immediate shine and will continue to look and feel healthier with continued weekly use. No one will know that you don’t have clear polish on…
- Don’t touch those cuticles
Your cuticles are your nail’s natural protection, so when you cut them or push them back, you are leaving your nails vulnerable to infection and worse. The more solid and moisturized your cuticles, the better your nails will grow out and the stronger they’ll be. Use a cuticle oil daily to keep them hydrated.
- Wear gloves when you work
Did you know that nails soak up more water than your skin does, leaving them prone to breakage? (This is also why soaking nails before a manicure isn’t great.) One step toward shinier, healthier natural nails is to wear gloves when you’re doing work that involves moisture – dishwashing, gardening, etc.
- Eat well and exercise regularly
There’s a way to grow healthy, natural nails from the inside out – consuming the right foods and keeping your body moving. A lack of B-complex vitamins like biotin can be associated with weak natural nails, giving you another reason to fill your plate with vegetables. Poor circulation can also impact your nail health and growth, as nails receive their oxygen and nutrient supply from the blood stream. Improve your circulation (and your overall health!) with an active lifestyle. Dr. Dana also recommends giving yourself regular hand massages to get the blood flowing to your fingers.
- Change the way you file
Many nail files, including traditional emery boards, are too abrasive for natural nails and can cause microscopic tears at the tip that lead to breakage, peeling and damage. The Dr. Dana Precision Glass Nail File is designed to be gentle on natural nails while still allowing you to easily shape and smooth the edges. Regular use of the file strengthens and deals the nail’s keratin layer, making nails more resilient.
- Keep an eye on things
Your nail health says a lot about your overall health, so note any big changes like discoloration, changes in shape, or spots, and tell your doctor if things seem off. Having naked nails gives you the perfect opportunity to monitor nails for any potential concerns.
Now you’re ready to go bare…even after summer ends!
