As the vibrant colours of Summer give way to the rich, warm hues of Autumn, it’s time to rethink your nail care routine. The colder months bring unique challenges for maintaining healthy, beautiful nails. We want to help you keep your nails looking great this Fall at Blossom Academy. Here are 10 essential tips all about how to prep your nails for Autumn.
1. Don’t Skip the Polish
As the temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, your nails require extra protection to remain healthy and strong. One of the most effective ways to shield your nails from the harsh Autumn weather is by regularly applying a base coat or nail polish. This protective layer serves as a barrier against the dry air, which can lead to brittle and fragile nails.
The Importance of Nail Polish
Nail polish, especially a good quality base coat, acts as a shield that protects your nails from the elements. It creates a barrier that helps to lock in moisture, preventing your nails from drying out. Moreover, nail polish can add an extra layer of strength to your nails, reducing the likelihood of breakage.
Benefits of Using a Base Coat
- Base coat protects nails from breaking and chipping. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, using a base coat can reduce nail breakage by up to 30% .
- Improved Nail Health: Base coats often contain nourishing ingredients like vitamins and minerals that promote healthy nail growth. Some base coats have biotin, which can make nails thicker and prevent splitting, as proven in clinical trials.
- Enhanced Polish Longevity: Applying a base coat can also extend the life of your nail polish, preventing it from chipping and peeling. This means your manicure will look fresh and vibrant for longer, saving you time and effort.
Application Tips
- Clean Nails First: Before applying a base coat or nail polish, ensure your nails are clean and dry. Take off old polish and wash hands well to remove oils and residues that could stop new polish from sticking.
- Thin Layers: Apply thin, even layers of base coat and polish. Thick layers can cause the polish to peel off more easily.
- Seal the Edges: Don’t forget to seal the edges of your nails by running the brush along the tip of each nail. This can help prevent chipping and extend the life of your manicure.
Choosing the Right Polish
When choosing nail polish, avoid formulas with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These chemicals can weaken your nails over time. Opt for polishes that are labelled as “5-free” or “7-free,” indicating they do not contain these harmful substances.
The Impact of Regular Use
Consistent use of a base coat and nail polish can significantly improve the health and appearance of your nails. A study showed that people who often use nail polish had 20% less splitting and 15% smoother nails after three months.
Use a base coat or nail polish to protect your nails during colder months in your nail care routine. This easy step can help keep your nails strong and beautiful during autumn and beyond.
2. Minimise Water Exposure In Autumn
Extended exposure to water can weaken your nails, making them prone to splitting and peeling. Water absorption causes nails to expand, and as they dry, they contract, leading to weakness and brittleness over time. Research shows that nails can soak up 25% of their weight in water, weakening their structure.
To avoid this, always wear gloves when you are doing chores or washing dishes. It is also important to wear gloves during any activities that involve water for an extended period of time.
Wearing gloves not only keeps your nails dry but also maintains their strength by preventing the constant cycle of expansion and contraction. Dermatologists recommend wearing gloves when working with water to reduce nail splitting and breakage by 30%.
This simple yet effective measure helps preserve your nails’ health and durability, ensuring they remain robust throughout the colder months.
3. Nail Hydration Is Key
As we read above, nails soak up a lot of water, make sure you stay hydrated by drinking enough water and providing your skin the moisture it needs.
With the drop in humidity during Autumn, your nails and cuticles can become dry and brittle. Increase your use of hand and nail lotion to combat this. Choose lotions with shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil for deep hydration and nourishment.
4. Add Moisture to the Air
Dry indoor air can wreak havoc on your nails and skin. Using a humidifier can help maintain moisture levels in your home, preventing your nails from drying out. This is especially important if you spend a lot of time indoors with heating systems that can further reduce air moisture.
5. Choose Quality Nail Strengtheners
Not all nail strengtheners are beneficial. Avoid those containing harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP.
Choose high-quality nail strengtheners that naturally fortify your nails. These products will keep your nails strong and healthy. They won’t cause any damage. Avoid other options.
6. Wear Protective Gloves
Gloves are your best friend during colder months. They protect your hands and nails from the harsh elements, preventing dryness and brittleness. Always wear gloves when venturing outside in cold weather to keep your nails shielded from the elements.
When washing up at home, remember to protect that top coat by wearing rubber gloves. Your nails are far less likely to chip wearing gloves. Plus, keeping your hands away from harsh chemicals is far better for your overall health. Building up this habit will help you remember gloves when it gets colder, therefore protecting your nails in Fall!
7. Regularly File Your Nails Before and During Autumn
Frequent filing helps maintain your nails’ shape and prevents them from snagging or breaking. By smoothing out rough edges, you reduce the risk of small tears that can lead to larger breaks. Regular filing can also promote healthier nail growth by removing any weak or uneven parts of the nail that might otherwise cause problems.
Importance of Regular Filing
Regular filing is crucial because it keeps your nails in optimal condition. Nails that are not regularly filed are more prone to splitting and breaking, so filing your nails weekly can reduce breakages and splitting. People who file their nails regularly experience fewer issues compared to those who file less frequently.
Best Practices for Filing
- Use a Gentle File: Choose a fine-grit file (around 240 grit) to gently smooth and shape your nails. Coarse files can be too harsh and may cause damage.
- File in One Direction: Avoid sawing back and forth, as this can create micro-tears in the nail. Instead, file in one direction for a smoother finish.
- Weekly Routine: Aim to file your nails at least once a week to maintain their shape and health.
Types of Nail Files
- Glass Files: These are durable and provide a very smooth finish. They are gentle on the nails and can be easily cleaned, making them a hygienic choice.
- Emery Boards: These are widely available and come in various grits. They are suitable for both natural and artificial nails.
- Metal Files: These are very durable but can be too harsh for natural nails, making them more suitable for artificial nails.
Where to Get Quality Nail Files
Quality nail files can be purchased from beauty supply stores, drugstores, or online retailers such as Amazon, Everything Nails, and Sephora, Boots. Look for trusted brands like OPI, Revlon, and Deborah Lippmann, which offer high-quality nail care tools.
Filing your nails regularly helps them stay neat, strong, and healthy. This is important all year round, but especially during the autumn season.
8. Prepare For Autumn Nail Colours
Prep your nails for Autumn during August and September, the perfect months for transitioning your nail colours from summer to autumn. Start incorporating Autumnal shades like rich purples, deep blues, and vibrant greens into your nail routine. These colours not only reflect the season but also add a touch of sophistication to your look.
Popular Autumn Nail Colours and Designs
- Rich Purples: Shades like deep plum and aubergine are perfect for autumn. These colours exude elegance and pair beautifully with both casual and formal outfits.
- Deep Blues: Navy and sapphire hues are ideal for adding depth to your nail art. These colours are versatile and can be accented with glitter or metallic stripes for a glamorous look.
- Vibrant Greens: Emerald and forest green nails make a bold statement and complement the autumnal palette. These shades are great for those who want to stand out.
Nail Art Inspirations
- Metallic Accents: Add a touch of gold or silver to your Autumn nail colours for a luxurious finish. Metallic stripes, dots, or French tips can elevate your nail design.
- Leaf Designs: Embrace the season by incorporating leaf motifs into your nail art. Use a fine brush to paint delicate leaves in contrasting colours like gold or white.
- Gradient Nails: Create a gradient effect with your chosen Autumn colours. Blend from a dark shade at the base to a lighter hue at the tips for a sophisticated ombré look.
Have You Done Our Nail Art Course?
To master these beautiful Autumnal nail designs, consider enrolling in our Nail Art Course at Blossom Academy. Our course covers a wide range of techniques, from basic application to intricate nail art designs. You’ll learn how to use various tools and products to achieve professional-looking results at home.
By incorporating these colours and designs into your routine, you can fully embrace the beauty of the Autumn season. Our Nail Art Course will provide you with the skills and confidence to create stunning gel manicures with art that reflects your personal style and the essence of autumn.
9. Nourish with Oils
The dry air of Fall can be particularly harsh on your nails and cuticles. As humidity levels drop, your nails are more prone to becoming brittle and breaking. To combat this, it’s essential to keep them hydrated with nourishing oils such as argan oil, almond oil, or cuticle oil.
Why Oils Matter
Oils are good for moisturising nails and cuticles. They contain fatty acids and vitamins that deeply hydrate. This provides long-lasting moisture, an essential way to prep your nails for Autumn. Regular application can prevent brittleness and breakage, ensuring your nails remain strong and healthy throughout the season.
Types of Oils and Their Benefits
- Argan Oil: Known as “liquid gold,” argan oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids. It helps to strengthen nails and promote growth. Studies show that argan oil can improve skin elasticity and hydration by up to 42% in just four weeks .
- Almond Oil: This oil is packed with vitamins E, A, and B, making it perfect for nourishing and revitalising nails and cuticles. Research indicates that almond oil can improve skin hydration levels by 56% when used regularly .
- Cuticle Oil: Typically a blend of various oils, cuticle oil is specifically formulated to penetrate the nail bed and cuticle area deeply. It can increase nail flexibility, reducing the likelihood of cracks and splits.
Application Tips
- Daily Use: Apply the oil at least once a day, ideally before bedtime, to allow the oil to work overnight. Massage a few drops into your nails and cuticles to boost circulation and enhance absorption.
- Post-Manicure: Use oils after manicures to lock in moisture and protect against polish chemicals.
- On-the-Go: Keep a small bottle in your bag to apply whenever your nails feel dry.
The Impact of Regular Use
Regular use of nourishing oils can lead to significant improvements in nail health. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants who had used nail oil containing jojoba oil and vitamin E experienced a 25% reduction in nail splitting and a 15% increase in nail smoothness after just one month .
10. Correct Removal of Enhancements
It’s vital that nail enhancements are removed correctly with professional advice instead of just ‘ripping or biting’ them off, as incorrect removal can cause damage, which each time, weakens your nails.
By allowing a professional to soak, and remove any extensions or gel polish, your nail health isn’t compromised.
A Reminder: How To Prep Your Nails For Autumn
By following these tips, you can ensure that your nails remain healthy, strong, and beautiful throughout the Autumn season. At Blossom Academy, we dedicate ourselves to helping you achieve the best nail care routine for every season.
If you’d like to learn more about Autumnal designs and nail art, then check out our online nail art course! You can do them from home, at your own pace!
