Hands up – how often do you treat your hands and nails to the same beauty rituals as your face? Laura Pollard reveals why and how we should treat our hard-working hands and nails to some TLC

The hands of time

While most of us take care of our complexions on a daily basis with dedicated skincare routines, we often forget to treat the delicate skin on our hands, despite the fact that they are constantly exposed to environmental aggressors, and therefore prone to dryness and signs of ageing. Priti Patel, Skin Therapist at Riverbanks Wellness and Anti-aging Clinic, says: “The skin on our hands is delicate; the cushioning and supporting fat layer below the skin is thinner [than elsewhere on the body] so the bones and veins are more visible. In addition, hands are constantly exposed to the environment, UV rays and chemicals that we use in our households, as well as pollution, germs, dirt and temperature changes.”

As with our faces, the hands are especially at risk from sun exposure. Patel explains: “Age spots are really sun spots. They show many years after the cellular DNA damage has been done.” Hands are even prone to UV damage through glass, such as while driving or through an office window.

Fine lines and wrinkles are also common on the hands due to a loss of collagen and lipids as we age, hormones and dehydration. In order to minimise potential damage, regular moisturisation and UV protection are key. Recommend hand creams containing antioxidants to protect the skin, plus UV protection of at least SPF 30. A healthy diet including plenty of oily fish and vegetables will also help to nourish skin from the inside out.

Customers can create a luxurious at-home hand treatment with a premium-quality hand cream like Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream (RRP £25). Formulated with lipid-rich oils, it will condition both the skin’s surface and the deeper layer beneath. For everyday use, Avène Hand Cream with Cold Cream (RRP £6.50) is perfect for dry, delicate skin, with a smooth, non-greasy finish that comforts hands.

At night, customers can indulge in the Mavala Repairing Night Cream (RRP £38.50), complete with gloves to help the cream penetrate the skin more deeply. This rich cream encourages cell renewal and moisture retention.

 

Common issues, nailed

Dry, brittle nails, ridges and discolouration are all a reality for many customers. Ginger Coners, Senior Director of Research and Development at Coty, says: “Some people have naturally dry nails and cuticles. Additionally, daily exposure to soap, shampoo and even water can strip natural oils, leaving nails and cuticles dry and in need of a moisture boost. Dry, brittle nails can crack and break, and dry cuticles tear and are unsightly and uncomfortable. A moisturised nail is flexible and not brittle, helping to withstand breakage. A moisturised cuticle sets the groundwork for optimised nail growth potential.”

But what does ‘moisturised’ actually mean when it comes to nails? Madeline Poole, Global Colour Ambassador for Sally Hansen, explains: “Moisture can refer to either the amount of liquids you’re consuming or the amount of moisture you’re applying topically to the nail and cuticle.” Both are necessary in order to tackle dry nails. As well as drinking more water, Poole suggests recommending Sally Hansen Moisture Rehab (RRP £9.95) to customers concerned about nail dryness. This nutrient-rich overnight moisture serum offers a hydrating boost to help restore dry, brittle nails and cuticles.

For nails riddled with ridges, Madeline reveals: “Ridges are caused by extreme dryness under the cuticle.” If ridges are an issue for your customer, suggest applying a moisturising nail oil or cream regularly, such as Mavala Nailactan (RRP £18) – a nutritive nail cream full of essential amino acids, lipids and vitamins. Sonia Hully, CEO and Founder of Nailberry, says: “Oils are most effective when massaged into the nail and cuticle at night. Plus, the massaging technique will allow for maximum absorption and hydration.” Nailberry Little Treasure Cuticle Oil (RRP £17) offers a nourishing blend of sweet almond oil and vitamins E and F. Nails Inc manicurist Roni Dawkins-Alder adds: “Coconut oil in warm water is a great nail soak, as the coconut oil will help to soften cuticles and moisturise nails.” You could also recommend a primer base varnish, such as Rimmel London Nail Nurse Nail Base and Top Coat (RRP £4.49), which helps fill in ridge, enhance strength and protect against breakages.