SELF CARE SERIES #32
Essential Winter Nail Care for Healthy, Beautiful Hands and Feet

As the chilly winds of winter sweep across the landscape, our skin and nails often bear the brunt of the harsh weather conditions. it's not just our skin that demands extra attention, dry air, cold temperatures, and indoor heating can wreak havoc on our hands and feet, leaving them parched, brittle, and in need of some extra care.

Did you know, the cells that form the top layer of your skin are the same ones that your nails are made of? These cells are bonded by natural oils. Unfortunately, cold dry conditions along with frequent hand washing causes these oils to be stripped. Consequently, your nails and cuticles can become dry, like our skin.

Just as with skin care, maintaining beautiful nails and cuticles involves three crucial steps:

1. Hydrate: External hydration with nourishing oils or creams for nails is vital. Also keep in mind, internal hydration by drinking plenty of liquids is equally important. Adequate water intake ensures that your body, skin, and nails receive the necessary moisture from the inside out, preventing dryness and brittleness. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day to keep your nails strong and healthy.
2. Protect: Your nails face daily exposure to various elements and harsh chemicals, which can lead to damage over time. To shield your nails, consider wearing gloves for household chores, using a protective base coat under nail polish, and avoiding harsh nail care products. These steps can help preserve your nails' integrity and appearance.
3. Repair: Even with protective measures, nails can still experience damage. Implementing a repair regimen can address issues like cracks, splits, and peeling. Products rich in vitamins and natural oils can promote nail strength, flexibility, and growth, helping to restore your nails and cuticles to their best condition.

Fear not. We've got you covered with our Essential Cuticle Repair Oil and a few handy tips to keep your nails healthy and beautiful all winter long.

1. No cuticle cutters required

First things first, let's talk about cuticles. One of the biggest mistakes people make is cutting their cuticles. This can lead to tougher, jagged skin and more hangnails. Instead, opt for regular application of cuticle oil and gently push back your cuticles into the nail bed. Our cuticle oil is perfect for this task, as it nourishes and softens the cuticles, making them easier to manage without the need for any harsh cutting.

2. Cuticle Oil is Your BFF

Cuticle oil is a game-changer for nail health, especially in the winter months. Just like your skin needs water, your nails crave the hydration and nourishment that cuticle oil provides. With frequent hand washing, exposure to cold weather, and indoor heating, our skin dries out, leading to brittle nails and hangnails. Our cuticle oil is packed with essential nutrients to replenish moisture and promote healthy nail growth. Make it a part of your daily routine to massage a few drops of our cuticle oil into your nails and cuticles for strong, beautiful nails all season long.

3. It's better with Glass

When it comes to nail care tools, not all files are created equal. Unlike traditional nail files that can leave rough edges and damage the nails, opt for a gentle glass nail file. Glass files have a finer grit, making them safer and more effective for shaping your nails. Plus, they're easy to sanitize, ensuring clean and hygienic nail care. Remember to file in a single direction to prevent damage and keep your nails smooth and snag-free.

4. You are what you eat

Frequently, our bodies miss essential nutrients like zinc, iron, or vitamins, especially in winter when diets often lean towards fats and carbohydrates and lack sufficient nutrients. This shortfall can hinder our metabolism from getting the necessary support. Take food supplements and load up on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, lean meats, leafy greens, salmon, eggs, nuts, and whole grains to promote strong, healthy nails. These foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that support keratin growth, the protein that nails are made of. A well-balanced diet not only benefits your nails but also boosts overall health and vitality.

5. Keeping It short

While long nails may be glamorous, shorter nails are more practical, especially during the winter months. Short nails are less likely to harbor dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of infections. Plus, they're easier to maintain and less prone to breakage. Embrace short nails this season for a clean and polished look that's both stylish and hygienic.

6. Indulge your hands and feet to a At Home DIY SPA Treatment.

In addition to following essential nail care practices like using cuticle oil and opting for gentle filing methods, incorporating a special spa treatment for our hands and feet can work wonders in maintaining their health and beauty. Follow our easy step-by-step guide for salon-worthy nails in the comfort of your own home. From exfoliation to hydration, this treatment has everything you need to pamper your hands and feet, and achieve stunning results for your nails.

- Washing Away the Day:

Start your spa treatment by thoroughly cleansing them with a gentle scrub or wash. A concoction of natural ingredients like sugar, honey, and essential oils can effectively slough away dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and supple. Additionally, incorporating a dry brushing technique can stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, enhancing the overall health of your skin.

- Indulge in a Soothing Soak:

After cleansing, treat your hands and feet to a luxurious soak in hot water infused with aromatic oils like our Lavender Ginger Body Oil  .Not only does this help to soften the skin and relax tired muscles, but it also provides a sensory experience that calms the mind and relieves stress. Allow yourself to sink into the warmth of the soak, letting go of the day's tensions as you prepare to indulge in further pampering.

- The Healing Power of Massage:

Massage is not only a luxurious indulgence but also a therapeutic practice that offers numerous benefits for our hands and feet. Using a nourishing blend of oils, gently massage your hands and feet, focusing on areas prone to dryness and tension. Such as our Juniper Body Oil, the replenishing body oil contains Juniper and Cypress which assists with detoxification, ridding the body of excess water. Grapefruit and Lemon strengthens veins and assists with the prevention of varicosities. Pay special attention to your nails and cuticles, as massaging promotes circulation and aids in the absorption of essential nutrients, helps stimulate healthy growth and revitalization.

- DIY hand and feet Masks:

For additional nourishment, apply a DIY Hand/Feet Mask weekly as you would for you face. Combine a rich mix of natural ingredients found in and around your kitchen. Ingredients such as honey, yoghurt, lemons, eggs, vitamin supplements, cocoa powder, coffee grinds and coconut oil help deliver natural nutrients for deep hydration and revitalization. After the mask, rinse off and dry your hands/feet for the final step.

- Nourish and Protect with Cuticle Oil:

As the final step in your spa treatment, nourish and protect your nails and cuticles with a rich and hydrating GingerChi Nail and Cuticle Repair. Formulated with Hemp Seed, Fresh Ginger, and Pumpkin Seed Oils. It’s crafted to heal, enhance nail strength, stimulate cell renewal, foster skin regeneration, and accelerate the healing of wounds. Moisturizing the cuticles also helps protect and strengthen your nails.

- Seal in the Goodness While You Sleep:

To maximize the benefits of your spa treatment, don't forget to seal in moisture overnight. After applying cuticle oil, slip into a pair of gloves and cozy socks to lock in moisture and allow the oil to work its magic while you sleep. This simple step ensures maximum hydration and prevents the transfer of oil onto your bedding, leaving your hands and feet feeling rejuvenated and refreshed come morning

Winter Hand and Feet Nail care is essential for maintaining healthy, beautiful hands and feet year-round. By following these tips with our cuticle oil and incorporating regular spa treatments into your routine, you can ensure that your Nails stay hydrated, resilient, and looking their best, even in the coldest months of the year. So why wait? Treat yourself to some well-deserved TLC and enjoy the benefits of healthy nails all winter long.

Please reach out know if you have any questions or if you have some personal tips you would like to share. We would love to hear from you!

 

Wishing you well and with good Chi,

Anna