Acrylic nails are so over and I think most of us are very happy about it. Going to the salon should be fun and relaxing, not an every other week chore. The short, natural nail looks like it is here to stay.
If you have decided to take the acrylics off or to stop using the gel systems that are available, as they cause damage as well, congratulations! I am guessing that as you look at your nails that you are already contemplating going back to the enhancements as your nails are dry, split and soft, not to mention the hangnails and cracked and dry cuticles. Don’t!!!
A great way to help your nails back to their beautiful natural state, and keep them there, is to soak them once a week in olive oil for 15 to 20 minutes. (Do not do this on the day that you want to polish your nails!) This helps to moisturize the nails and cuticles. When you are finished soaking, blot your hands and then rub the remaining oil into your nails and hands. Gently push the cuticles back with an orange stick. Never cut the cuticles as they protect the nail bed from damage.
On a daily basis, cuticle oil AM and PM prevents the nails and cuticles from drying and prevents hangnails. I like T.I.P.S. which I purchase on QVC.com. It comes in multiple small bottles so you can have them in the house, car, desk drawer, handbag, etc. Coconut oil and argan oil are also great for this purpose.
Once you have healthy nails you can start using all those rich colored polishes – corals, blues, greens, oranges, metallics – all look great on short nails. Give them a try, they look good on everyone.
In the meantime, enjoy your beautiful natural nails!
Peace
Moonstruck in Jersey's Blog 