HAND & NAIL CARE IN A COVID WORLD

EXPERT OPINION: 
​AILESH ABRAMS, NAIL TECHNICIAN

SALON SOCIETY

1368 ROSE STREET, REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN

​​Hey everyone! Ailesh from Salon Society in Regina, SK here to talk about proper hand and nail care in our current crazy COVID world. 


As we all undoubtedly know at this point, 20 seconds of frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and warm water is important for defending against the COVID-19 virus but all this hand washing can really take a toll on the health of our hands and nails. In addition, increased sanitization of frequently touched surfaces has many of us with our hands in harsh cleaners and bleach. 

Working to keep your hands and nails in good shape isn't just so they look pretty but also to protect your health. Broken skin and abrasions are a good way for bacteria to enter your body and dry hands and cuticles can be painful - so let's get fixing those hands! 

1. Moisturize 

The best thing you can do for your hands is moisturize them. Frequent handwashing is very drying so it is important to follow every hand wash with lotion. Try a DIY hand scrub to scrub away the dryness and start fresh - something as simple as brown sugar and coconut oil will do the trick! 

TOP TIP: Have a lotion next to every sink so you won't forget and don't have to look for it!

2. Use Warm Water 

Warm water is plenty warm enough to effectively wash your hands and is the recommended temperature for handwashing. Whereas washing with hot water strips moisture from your hands plus can cause irritation or burns. 

3. No Nail Biting 

Nothing is worse than unsightly and painful nails and cuticles. Keep those fingers out of your mouth - for your nails and your health! 

TOP TIP: Keeping your nails at a shorter, more manageable length can help to discourage nail biting. Plus, always carry nail clippers or a nail file so any broken nails can be taken care of immediately without biting. 

4. Cuticle Care 

Dry cuticles are flakey, peeling, hang nail prone cuticles. To keep your cuticles looking good be sure to use lots of lotion and cuticle oil! In addition, it's important to keep a pair of sharp cuticle nibbers on hand. Using nibbers to carefully and safely cut away dry cuticles and hang nails helps to stop tearing and prevent painful cuticles.

TOP TIP: Put cuticle oil on at night before bed so it can fully soak in as you sleep! 

5. Pretty Nails are Healthy Nails 

Right now long nails may not be the best choice for you. Our frequent hand washing can make nails dry and brittle leading to easy breakage. Shorter well shaped nails are easier to maintain than longer nails; uniform healthy nails are pretty nails.

6. Polish 

Grab some nail polish and make those nails shine! Make sure to thoroughly clean the nail before applying any polish and use base and top coats for a longer lasting manicure. If you're thinking of tackling some nail art check out my blog - 4 Tips for Beginner Nail Art!