13/08/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | AUG 13, 2025

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Nail care is vital to a beauty regimen.

From tip to root Good nail care can boost self-esteem and confidence.

creams or oils helps preserve the health of nail and skin. These simple, repetitive actions are grounding and in a busy setting where we are constantly reaching for our phones or typing away at keyboards, our hands deserve the same care we offer our faces. Understanding nail health Smooth texture, natural pink tones, uniform thickness and a firm edge are good indicators. But health also includes flexibility which is the ability of the nail to bend slightly without snapping. Nails that are too dry tend to become brittle, while those that are overexposed to water can soften and peel. A balance of hydration and strength is what matters. Neglecting the nails can lead to a host of common issues such as splitting, flaking, slow growth and white patches. Over-filing, skipping base coats, excessive use of gel polish and not allowing nails to “breathe” between colour applications can strip away natural oils and weaken the nail plate. Just like skincare requires rest days from heavy makeup, nails too need time to recover from polishes and removers. Shift towards natural and minimal nails Recent beauty trends have seen a move towards bare or barely-there nails. This minimalist look like clean, short neatly shaped with a sheer wash of neutral tone reflects a deeper appreciation for natural beauty and nail health. Instead of layering on acrylics or heavy gel polish, the emphasis is now on maintaining the integrity of the nail. This shift has encouraged many to embrace natural nails, leading to a greater demand for nourishing treatments and cuticle care. Creating a balanced nail routine An ideal nail care routine does not require a salon visit or an elaborate kit. What it needs is consistency and gentleness. Simple steps such as trimming the nails regularly, filing in one direction to avoid fraying and gently pushing back the cuticles can go a long way. Equally important is hydration. The nail bed, much

o Why nail care matters more than you think

Ű BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN

N AILS have often taken a backseat, overlooked, hidden behind polish because glass skin and glossy lips reign supreme. But quietly and steadily, nail care is rising in relevance, shifting from a cosmetic afterthought to a meaningful self-care practice. Healthy, well-groomed nails are a reflection of how we care for ourselves, right down to our fingertips. For many, the idea of nail care begins and ends with manicures, but true nail care starts beneath the surface which is in the strength. Nails, made of keratin, are vulnerable to external stressors just like our skin and hair. Repeated exposure to water, detergents, air-conditioning and harsh nail products can cause peeling, breakage and discolouration. In some cases, unhealthy nails can even signal internal issues such as nutritional deficiencies, poor circulation or dehydration. Vertical ridges, brittle edges or unusually soft nails are often overlooked signs. In this sense, caring for your nails is all about listening to what your body is trying to say. Self-care Nail care, when done properly, can be one of the most soothing rituals in a beauty routine. The process of soaking your hands, gently pushing back the cuticles, shaping the nails and massaging in a nourishing oil becomes less about vanity and more about mindfulness. There is something undeniably calming about tending to such a small part of yourself with intention especially when we are used to rushing through our routines. Softening the cuticles before trimming, shaping the nails in a way that prevents snagging and sealing in moisture with rich

Nail care can be a form of self-care.

like skin, needs moisture to stay healthy. Daily use of a hand cream that also nourishes the nails, paired with oils that penetrate the cuticle area, can help maintain strength and flexibility. Protection is another crucial component. Frequent exposure to water or harsh cleaning agents can quickly undo all the hard work. Wearing gloves while washing dishes or handling chemicals may seem excessive, but it makes a significant difference in preventing breakage and drying. In the same way that we give our skin time to renew, nails also benefit from periods of recovery. Allowing the nails to remain polish-free from time to time, gently buffing the surface to restore natural shine, and resisting the urge to pick or peel at coatings all contribute to long-term strength. At its core, nail care is about respect for your body, your time and your sense of self-worth. Taking care of your nails is not about keeping up with trends, but about treating yourself with care and attention. When done right, it is a quiet declaration of dignity and self-respect. So, while others may focus on the flash and colour, remember strong, healthy and well-kept nails often speak louder than any polish ever could. They carry the touch of every gesture, the imprint of your presence and they deserve to be cared for.

Regular nail care helps prevent infections. – ALL PICS FROM PEXELS