Keep Your Hands & Nails Looking Fresh Despite COVID
Your hands are taking a beating for COVID. It’s time to pamper them
Written by Raven Pearson
Hot water, harsh soap, and sanitizer that smells like cheap vodka. Repeat. During the pandemic, our manicures have never looked worse, and not simply because the nail salons were closed. Unless you’ve been diligent in combating the drying effect of constant hand washing and antibacterial gels (in which case, we applaud you), chances are your hands and nails have some repairing to do. Here are some of our tips on how to wash your hands, save lives, and look good doing it.
Bring the good stuff with you
We all know unscented products prevent unnecessary skin irritation. Unfortunately, most commercial soap dispensers are filled with artificial fragrance and dyes. The solution? Fill a travel-sized bottle with your favorite gentle hand soap, and bring it everywhere you go. You’ll fight germs without sacrificing your skin.
Add a barrier cream to your routine
Does it feel like your hand lotion slides down the drain with each wash? Barrier creams can add an extra layer of protection. Most contain occlusive agents to keep your skin from losing moisture, or have water-retentive ingredients like glycerine or hyaluronic acid.
Apply a nail strengthener
A brush-on nail strengthener coats each nail to protect them from peeling and breaking during all those 20 second hand washes. To prevent nails from becoming too hard and brittle, make sure to choose a formula that’s formaldehyde free.
Wear a mask
In this case, a hand mask. At least once a week, slather hands in skin-repairing emollients like coconut oil, pure aloe vera, or shea butter. Slip on a pair of comfy gloves or socks, and relax knowing all your hard work keeping yourself and others safe won’t damage your skin. DIY recipes abound, but if you’re feeling luxurious, beauty brands offer plenty of options—some of which include anti-aging ingredients to keep hands and nails supple and smooth.
Exfoliate your nails
It’s common knowledge that regular exfoliation is key to glowing skin, but did you know that your nails can use some gentle sloughing, too? Moisten baking powder with water, mix into a paste, and massage into nails and cuticles. They’ll be ready to soak up all those healthy oils you’ve been pampering them with. For maximum impact, a glycolic acid system especially designed for nails can work wonders.
Keep In Touch
What We’re Reading
