How to Keep Your Natural Nails Healthy Between Manicures

A fresh manicure can make your nails look their best, but what you do between appointments matters just as much. Healthy natural nails start with a few simple habits—and, thankfully, none of them require a 10-step routine.

Moisture Is Your Friend

Just like your skin and hair, your nails and the surrounding skin can become dry. Regularly moisturizing your hands, nails, and cuticles can help minimize brittleness and keep nails feeling their best. Cuticle oil is an easy addition to your daily routine, especially after frequent handwashing.

Please, Don’t Pick

We know it’s tempting. But peeling or picking off gel polish can remove layers of the nail along with it, leaving your natural nails thinner and weaker. When it’s time for your manicure to come off, proper removal is worth the wait.

Give Your Nails a Little TLC

Be gentle with your nails between appointments. Wear gloves when cleaning or doing dishes, avoid using your nails as tools (we’re looking at you, stubborn soda can), and keep rough edges filed so they don’t snag and tear.

If your nails are feeling particularly brittle or damaged, a break from polish may also give them time to grow out and recover. Dermatologists recommend moisturizing nails and cuticles during these polish breaks to help prevent chipping and brittleness.

Healthy Nails Start With Good Nail Care

A beautiful manicure starts with a healthy foundation. At Ash & Willow Eco Salon in Park Ridge, our nail services are about more than choosing the perfect color—we want your natural nails cared for, too.

A little attention between manicure appointments can go a long way toward keeping them looking and feeling their best.