Summer is the season of sunshine, beach holidays, and outdoor activities, but it can also be surprisingly tough on your nails. Exposure to UV rays, salt water, chlorine, and heat can leave your nails dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. To keep your hands and feet looking polished, it’s important to give your nails some extra care during the warmer months. Whether you enjoy a professional manicure in London or a pampering pedicure in London, the right approach will help you maintain stronger, healthier nails all summer long.
1. Keep Your Nails Hydrated
Just like your skin, your nails need hydration. The summer sun and frequent dips in pools can cause nails to lose moisture, making them more fragile. Regularly applying cuticle oil and using a nourishing hand cream can prevent dryness. For toenails, moisturizing after every shower helps keep them strong and prevents cracking.
2. Protect Nails from the Sun
We often remember sunscreen for our face and body, but nails and cuticles can also be affected by UV rays. Applying a thin layer of clear polish with UV protection or using sunscreen around the nails is a simple but effective way to prevent yellowing and weakening.
3. Don’t Skip Professional Care
Scheduling a regular manicure in London is more than just a beauty treat—it helps maintain nail health. Nail technicians can trim and shape your nails properly, treat your cuticles, and apply protective coatings. Similarly, a pedicure in London not only makes your feet look good in sandals but also helps prevent ingrown toenails and keeps your toenails strong.
4. Choose Breathable Nail Polishes
During summer, it’s tempting to wear bright, bold nail colors all the time. While that’s fun, give your nails some time to breathe. Opt for polishes that are free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, and avoid leaving polish on for weeks without a break. A short “nail holiday” allows your natural nails to regain strength.
5. Stay Nourished from Within
Healthy nails start with good nutrition. Eating foods rich in biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids promotes stronger nails. Incorporating leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish into your diet can make a noticeable difference in nail strength and growth. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water also plays a huge role in preventing brittleness.
6. Avoid Overexposure to Water
Ironically, too much time in the water can weaken nails by making them swell and then shrink as they dry. When swimming, try to wear gloves for protection in chlorinated pools if possible. After swimming or showering, always dry your nails thoroughly to prevent splitting.
Read more: How to Maintain Healthy Nails Between Manicures and Pedicures
7. Keep Nails at a Manageable Length
Long nails might look elegant, but during summer activities like sports, gardening, or traveling, they are more likely to break. Keeping your nails trimmed and filed to a moderate length can reduce the risk of painful splits or cracks.
8. Use Gloves for Household Chores
Household detergents and cleaning agents can strip nails of their natural oils, leading to dryness and peeling. Always wear gloves while washing dishes or handling cleaning products to maintain nail strength.
FAQs About Summer Nail Care
1. How often should I get a manicure or pedicure in summer?
It’s recommended to get a manicure every 2–3 weeks and a pedicure every 4–6 weeks. This routine keeps nails healthy and prevents problems like dryness, breakage, or ingrown toenails.
2. Can nail polish damage my nails during summer?
Wearing nail polish itself doesn’t usually harm nails, but leaving it on for too long without breaks can weaken them. Use high-quality, breathable polishes and let your nails rest between applications.
3. What foods can help strengthen nails?
Foods rich in biotin (like eggs, almonds, and spinach), omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon and walnuts), and zinc (pumpkin seeds, beans) are excellent for promoting nail strength and growth.
4. Are gel manicures safe for summer?
Gel manicures are popular for their long-lasting shine, but repeated use can make nails thinner if not done properly. Always go to a reputable salon in London and ensure gel polish is removed gently to protect your natural nails.