Winter is a season that brings with it colder temperatures, lower humidity, and harsher weather conditions that can take a toll on your hands and nails. From dry, cracked skin to brittle, peeling nails, the winter months can cause a range of issues if proper care isn’t taken. Fortunately, with a little attention and the right products, you can maintain soft, healthy hands and strong nails all season long. Below are some tips to help you care for your hands and nails in the winter, including the benefits of cuticle oil and regular manicures. Why Winter Can Be Hard on Your Hands and Nails The cold winter air, combined with indoor heating, strips moisture from your skin, making your hands and cuticles dry, rough, and prone to cracking. This can be particularly problematic for those who frequently wash their hands or use hand sanitizers, as these actions can further dehydrate the skin. As for nails, the dry air can lead to brittleness, making them more susceptible to breakage and splitting. Hydrate and Moisturize Regularly One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your hands and nails in winter is by moisturizing regularly. A rich hand cream should become your best friend during the colder months. Look for products containing nourishing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and vitamin E, as these will help lock in moisture and keep your skin smooth and hydrated. Be sure to apply hand cream after washing your hands and before going to bed, so your skin stays hydrated throughout the night. Keeping a travel-size hand lotion in your bag, in your car, and at your desk ensures that you can moisturize whenever necessary, particularly after exposure to cold air or frequent handwashing. For our clients, we recommend our Deluxe Manicure which features a collagen glove infused with mint and botanical extracts that invigorate, soothe and hydrate the delicate skin on the hands. Gloves are worn during the majority of the service and will transform even the dryest of skin. Use Cuticle Oil for Healthier Nails Cuticle oil is an essential product in your winter hand care routine. This small yet powerful oil helps nourish the cuticles, preventing them from becoming dry and cracked. By applying cuticle oil daily, you can keep your cuticles soft and hydrated, reducing the risk of painful hangnails and promoting overall nail health. Cuticle oils typically contain a blend of natural oils like jojoba, tea tree, and vitamin E, which help replenish lost moisture and protect the skin around your nails. Gently massage a drop of cuticle oil into each nail bed before or after moisturizing your hands, paying special attention to any areas that feel dry or cracked. Adding a few drops of cuticle oil to your moisturizer is also a great way to add extra hydration to the skin on your hands. These small steps can make a big difference in maintaining your nail and hand health and appearance. Did you know that our cuticle oil was featured as one of the best cuticle oils from Good Morning America? We’ve found that our oil is our best seller, and clients will typically double-down on the use of this product in the winter months. Regular Manicures: More Than Just a Treat Regular manicures are an important aspect of winter nail care. While they are often thought of as a luxury or a treat, manicures play a key role in keeping your nails strong, healthy, and well-groomed. A professional manicure involves trimming, shaping, and buffing your nails, all of which help prevent nail breakage and promote growth. Manicures also provide an opportunity to give extra attention to your cuticles, ensuring they are properly moisturized and free from damage. Additionally, if you regularly opt for a professional manicure, you’ll have access to quality products and techniques that can further protect your nails during the winter months. For those who prefer at-home care, make sure you invest in a good nail file and clipper. Glass nail files are the most gentle, effective tool for filing your own nails. Remember to always moisturize your cuticles after any nail grooming. Conclusion Winter may be tough on your hands and nails, but with the right care, you can keep them looking and feeling their best. Regularly moisturizing your hands, using cuticle oil to protect your nails, and treating yourself to professional manicures are all effective ways to ensure your hands remain soft, your nails stay strong, and your cuticles remain healthy throughout the winter season. With these steps in place, you’ll be ready to embrace the chilly weather while keeping your hands and nails in top condition.