Winter Hand and Nail Care Tips

One of the most common winter ailments after colds and flus is dry, flaky, itchy skin. Our hands and feet are especially prone to cracked skin and brittle nails during the winter. Unfortunately, winter is also the time of year when our nails grow the slowest, so it is imperative to take good care of your hands and feet when the cold dry winds start to blow. By applying the tips below, you can avoid winter nail deterioration.

Many people try to wash their hands less frequently so as not to exacerbate their dry skin. However, it is imperitive maintain good hygiene during the winter, so you should always wash with soap and water. Washing also helps remove dead skin cells. To avoid irritating your dry skin and nails, use a soap with moisturizer.

Moisturize your hands throughout the day and before you go to bed at night, paying close attention to the edges of your nails and cuticles. Water-based lotions are best. Try to find a brand that is free of dyes or perfumes, as such additives can further irritate sensitive skin.

If you don't already take a multivitamin, winter is a good time to start. Nails need a good balance of calcium, silica, magnesium, and other minerals in order to grow thicker, stronger, and faster. Since Westerners already get more calcium than they need in their diets, calcium supplements won't hasten nail growth (and may even have negative health effects).

Winter can be brutal on cuticles, making them shred, crack, peel, or even bleed. To keep your cuticles strong and health, apply a replenishing serum, oil, or cream.

Finally, a tip that's fun! One or two coats of nail polish will help seal in moisture and protect the surface of your nail from peeling and flaking, common side effects of dry winter skin.

Use a soy-based nail polish remover, since alcohol- and acetone-based formulas are excessively drying; used too frequently they can damage nails. Soy-based remover is also fume-free and non-toxic.

Wearing soft leather gloves indoors keeps your skin insulated from the dry air, which helps dry skin heal faster. They also keep your fingers warmer and improve blood circulation in your hands. Try on a pair of cashmere-lined lambskin gloves--you'll never want to take them off!