Everyday hand and nail care: simple habits

Why do our hands dry out so quickly?

The skin on the back of the hand is thin and has few oil glands. That means it has less “natural oil” to protect itself than the skin on your face. Add to that:

• frequent hand washing, especially in hot water;
• cold and wind in autumn and winter;
• dry air from central heating;
• contact with cleaning products and washing-up.

The result: skin that feels tight and rough, dry cuticles and nails that split more easily. The good news is that a few habits are enough to make a difference.

Hands are also one of the first places to show a lack of care: rough skin, hangnails, dull nails. On the other hand, soft hands and neat nails instantly look well cared for, even without polish.

Washing your hands without drying them out

Washing your hands often is an excellent habit. You just need to do it gently:

• use lukewarm water rather than hot;
• choose a gentle soap that cleans without leaving skin feeling tight;
• rinse well, including between your fingers and around your nails;
• dry carefully by patting, without forgetting between your fingers;
• apply a moisturiser straight afterwards, at least after your morning, lunchtime and evening washes.

Keep a small tube of cream by every sink and in your bag: it is the best way not to forget.

Hydrating dry hands and cuticles

Hand cream is no use if it stays in the drawer. The secret is consistency: several small applications during the day are better than one big one.

• Massage the cream into the backs of your hands, palms and each finger, then focus on the skin around your nails.
• For dry cuticles, a little product massaged in small circles is enough to soften them.
• Don't cut your cuticles: push them back gently after a shower, when the skin is soft.
• Think of your lips too, which dry out in the cold for the same reasons.

The evening is the perfect time for richer care: apply, massage, and let the night do the work.

In winter, protect your hands whenever you go out: gloves, even thin ones, make a real difference against cold and wind. And remember to apply your cream before you go out, not just when you come home.

Good habits for well-kept nails

Well-kept nails are mostly about good habits:

• Wear gloves for washing-up, cleaning and gardening.
• File in one direction with a gentle file, rather than cutting too short.
• Don't use your nails as tools to open a can or scrape off a label.
• Choose an acetone-free polish remover and give your nails a few days off between manicures.
• Avoid biting your nails or pulling at hangnails: clean nippers do a neater job.

And remember that beautiful nails also start on your plate: a varied diet and good hydration are part of the routine.

My once-a-week at-home manicure

Once a week, I give myself twenty minutes for my hands. Here is my routine:

1. Remove polish with a gentle remover.
2. Wash your hands with a gentle soap and lukewarm water.
3. File your nails in one direction into an even shape.
4. Soak your fingertips in lukewarm water for two to three minutes, then gently push back the cuticles.
5. Apply a mask: a thick layer of moisturising gel or cream on your hands, leave for a few minutes, then massage in the excess.
6. Finish with a lip balm and, if you like, a coat of polish.

For an even more comforting result, slip on cotton gloves overnight after the mask.

When should you ask for advice?

If your nails change appearance for no obvious reason (colour, shape, thickness), or if the skin on your hands stays very uncomfortable despite a regular routine, talk to your doctor or a pharmacist. Cosmetics are designed for everyday skin comfort and beauty. If you have sensitive skin, patch test each new product on a small area before using it.

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