How to care for your nails and cuticles in dry winters

Our nails require proper routine care and attention just like our skin, especially during the winter when the skin goes dry, cold, and rough - because of less moisture in the air. If left unattended, it may result in: peeling or cracking, which can be caused by vitamin deficiencies or dryness; tiny white spots, typically indicating excessive nail painting or nail biting; and red, inflamed skin surrounding the nails caused by chewing cuticles. Hence, taking care of our nails and cuticles is essential.

But what if we tell you that you don't need to go to expensive parlours when your nails can be treated with love and care at home? So, instead of making appointments for salon services, try these simple and effortless nails and cuticle care routines at home.

Here are some simple, helpful nail and cuticle care tips for maintaining beautiful and strong nails. To learn more, scroll down!

• Eat healthy 

Nails are made up of keratin, a protein. Eating protein-rich foods like beans, salmon, and nuts will help you grow stronger, healthier, and more lustrous nails. Also, include vitamins and supplements such as biotin, vitamin E, and fish oil.

• Stop biting your nails 

If you have a habit of constantly chewing your nails, then start wearing gloves because biting your nails seriously harms them. The touch of your saliva not only weakens and brittles your nails but also gives them a pitiful appearance and harms cuticles as well.

• Clean and pat dry your nails

While washing your hands, rinse your nails as well and pat them dry. This will stop bacteria and debris from growing under them. However, don't leave your nails in water for an extended period of time, as it might cause splits.

• Soak your nails in warm oil 

An excellent technique to battle winter dryness and brittle nails is to immerse them in heated oil (jojoba, squalene, or shea butter) which can increase skin suppleness and nail flexibility while keeping them hydrated. Soak your nails for 5 minutes, and then massage in a circular motion to get the blood circulation going.

• Lock in the moisture with gloves 

Wear gloves immediately after applying moisturiser and hand cream to secure the moisture. Gloves will prevent the exposure of nails to dry wintry winds and chilly weather.

These suggestions can be useful if you're attempting to figure out how to care for your nails in the winter.