Varnish that flakes too quickly, free edge that breaks as soon as you open a package: behind every failed manicure there are often tired nails. For healthy nails, you have to think about care, not just varnish.
Manicures are treatments dedicated to the hands and nails: cleaning, filing, cuticle care, polishing, varnish application. Done well, it prevents infections and splitting. Experts recommend complete care every 2 to 4 weeks and simple maintenance between two sessions.
Healthy nails: the basis of a manicure that lasts
When the nail is dry, streaked or split, even the most beautiful varnish sticks poorly and flakes quickly. A regular, well-hydrated and lightly polished plate accepts color better and reflects more shine. The health of the nail directly influences the sharpness and duration of the manicure.
Before any varnish, you must start with a clean base. Remove the residue with a non-acetone nail polish remover, then clean with a soft brush. Then file with a soft file, always in the same direction, and push back the softened cuticles rather than cutting them.
Three targeted treatments to strengthen and smooth your nails
First pillar: an intensive base that treats the nail instead of just protecting it. Kure Bazaar Hyaluronic Intensive Base, $28, targets streaked and dehydrated nails with a cocktail of hyaluronic acid, hibiscus extract, regenerating flower acids, calcium, vitamin E and lightening lemon extract.
Second pillar: interior reinforcement. The Nail Boost supplement from Manucurist Paris, $28, combines blueberries, brewer’s yeast, vitamins A, B2, B6, B9, C, biotin and minerals. According to the data provided, it would offer +25% acceleration of growth and +77% hardened nails. Third pillar, Nailmatic Black Serum, $11.90, limits breakage and cracks thanks to black algae, acai berries and moisturizing caviar extract.
Home routine: making a perfect manicure last
To transform these three treatments into the perfect manicure, use thin layers. On prepared nails, apply a conditioning base coat, two coats of classic varnish then a protective top coat. Dermatologists recommend keeping this manicure on for about 5 days, then leaving the nails bare for 2 days, massaging them with vegetable oil to rehydrate them.
Between two applications, these actions really maintain healthy nails: moisturize the cuticles and edges every day with an oil or cream, wear gloves when cleaning, avoid products that are too aggressive, choose acetone-free nail polish removers, no longer use your nails as tools. At the same time, a diet rich in protein, B vitamins, iron and zinc supports keratin, especially if you add a targeted supplement.
How to have healthy nails?
With gentle preparation, treatment base, daily oil, protection and possibly suitable supplement.
Which base should you choose to strengthen your nails?
A moisturizing treatment base with hyaluronic acid, calcium, vitamin E, gentle formula.
How long should you keep your varnish on to protect the nail?
Keep the varnish on for about 5 days then leave the nail bare for 2 days.
