Cold weather can cause damage to skin, nails and hair. With the winter chill in the air, keeping hands and nails healthy and strong can prove challenging. Indeed, winter weather can mean dry, brittle nails that are prone to breakage and infection.

Of course, caring for the body starts from the inside. Drink plenty of water to ensure optimum health inside out.

“Every healthy diet and beauty tip starts with drinking eight full glasses of water a day. Water is a magical liquid that can help purify the skin and hydrate organs and make your bones and nails strong,” said dermatologist Dr. Sawsan Abdullah.

“Skin breaks out when dehydrated and nails break, so drinking ample water is essential,” she added.

The hands and the face are the only parts of the body that are exposed during the chilly winter season.

In winter, skin and nails become dry, cracked and rough, so make sure you care for them by applying rich moisturizer.

“Caring for hands and nails should be a daily habit regardless of the season. One should moisturize more than once a day to keep the hands hydrated. This will help protect your skin and nails and ensure that they remain healthy,” said Abdullah.

“Make sure hand moisturizers are rich in vitamins and butter and also make sure that the cream reaches the cuticles and nails beds for full hydration,” she added.

Massaging is not just a luxury; it is an essential habit that one should adapt, especially in winter to help blood flow. “Whether going to the spa or staying at home, pamper yourself when applying moisturizer by massaging your face, neck and hands for at least five minutes twice a day,” said Abdullah.

“Don’t forget your nails in this daily ritual. Apply cuticle oil, which will help strengthen nails and prevent further damage. If you don’t have oil, Vaseline can help, so don’t forget you rub your nails after you apply chemical product,” she added.

Winter sees makeup and nail polish colors go darker and more attractive.

“I would recommend using nail polish only when needed. Give your nails a break and let them breath. This will help prevent them from cracking,” said the dermatologist.

“Some nail polish products contain chemicals like acetone and formaldeyde that can take away the natural protein layer that is there to protect the nail shaft. Also, try to avoid nail polish removers that contain acetone because they are too harsh on the nails,” she added.

Gloves are not only fashionable, but are also beneficial at keeping your hands and nails healthy and protected from the cold.

“Thanks to fashion and style, you will always look good in a pair of warm gloves when you are out in the streets, so make sure you take advantage of this by wearing them everywhere you go. You will look good, feel warm and protect your hands from becoming dry,” said Abdullah. “Winter or not, never wash dishes without wearing the cleaning gloves. Dish soaps contain a high amount of alcohol and this will instantly suck the moisture out of your hands and nails,” she added.

Going to the nail salon has both its advantages and disadvantages. Ensure that hygiene conditions are up to standard.

“Make sure that the salon that you visit is hygienic and the equipment used is clean. I always ask people to take their own tools with them to avoid infection,” said Abdullah.

“Ask your nail specialist to file your nails in one direction. Filing in both directions can cause a handful of problems, including discomfort as they grow back. Always push the cuticles back; cutting them can lead to infection and damage nail health,” she added.

Abdullah recommends that feet should be washed and nails cut short during winter. “Your feet are covered in layers of socks and boots in winter. Make sure to wash your feet and dry them properly before wearing your socks because trapped moisture can create fungus,” she said.

“Cut your foot nails short to avoid any bacterial damage inside the nail while wearing closed shoes,” she added.

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