Do you know the importance of seasonal nail care? Just as the world around us changes every winter, spring, summer and fall, our nails change and adjust to the weather conditions outside. Winter is arguably the harshest season when it comes to fingernail, toenail and cuticle health because, as moisture is eliminated from the air, your nails begin to lose moisture as well.1
Winter often coincides with prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and harsh winds. Plus, if you live in an area of the country that receives significant snowfall every winter, chances are your skin and nails come in direct contact with snow and ice.
Exposure to these harsh elements is a recipe for dry, brittle, cracked nails.
Finding it hard to keep your nails healthy this winter season? Don’t sweat it – we put together a list of nail care tips for winter which may protect your nails from damage caused by the frigid weather!
4 Ways To Protect Your Fingernails
From Damage During Winter
1. Apply Moisturizer Often1
Hydrating your hands and feet will keep your skin soft and moist, and may help your nails stay strong and healthy when it’s bitter cold outside. Because the cool, dry air that often accompanies the winter season can take away much of the natural moisture in your nails, you can really never over-moisturize your hands and feet. In addition to creams and moisturizers, hand and foot salves may help, too.
2. Take Care of Your Cuticles2
Your cuticles are very sensitive, especially when the environment around them becomes harsh. When the area around the nails dries out– an extremely common occurrence during winter – the skin will sometimes peel and split. The best way to prevent or limit the peeling is to keep your cuticles healthy by applying cuticle oil or cream daily or as needed. Tip: If you forget your cuticle cream or oil, substitute lip balm for a quick fix.
3. Keep Your Hands and Toes Warm3
Keeping your fingers shielded from cold weather helps reduce damage to the fingernails and cuticles. The same is true for keeping your toes warm. The easiest way to protect both sets of nails is to wear thick, warm socks and gloves when you go outside in the cold. Even if temperatures haven’t dropped below freezing, always carry a pair of gloves to protect your hands, nails, cuticles and nail beds. Your nails will thank you later!
4. Repair The Damage
Sometimes, no matter what you do, your nails simply fall victim to the harsh winter weather.
If this happens to you, we recommend consulting your physician to learn about treatment options for cracked, splitting or broken nails. Your physician can determine if Over-The-Counter treatment is enough, or if a prescription nail treatment is more appropriate.
1- WebMD.com – Winter Skin and Hair Care
2- WebMD.com – Take Care of Your Cuticles
3- AskDoctorK.com – What can I do to Improve My Brittle Nails