Summer Holiday Nail Care: Protect Your Nails From the Sun and the Pool

A pre-holiday manicure is a must, but how do you keep it looking fresh every day? Want to know how to keep your mani vibrant and your nails healthy whether you’re hitting the beach, bar, or pool? Here’s our guide to summer holiday nail care.

Why protect your mani on your summer holiday?

Well the first reason is that chipped nails kind of ruin your Instagram photos. Another reason is that dipping in and out of the pool can really dry out your hands and nails.

How chlorine affects your nails

Chlorine in pools keeps nasty germs at bay which is all good. However, it can also be very drying. Dry nails are brittle nails. Also, as you’ll know, submerging your hands and nails in water sans protection can weaken them. Here’s how to protect your nails from the harsh effects of chlorine.

How to protect your nails from chlorine

Rule number one of summer holiday nail care is making sure you holiday-proof your nails before you go with a good nail care routine. Here’s how to protect your nails from the damaging effects of chlorine, the sun, and anything else that threatens to ruin your precious manicure.

Step one: Buff and shape your nails

Buffing creates a smooth surface for your nail polish which will make your mani last longer. After you’ve smoothed out all the ridges and imperfections, shape your nails. Almond, square, or oval nails are the best shapes if you want to reduce breakage. Remember not to file your nails in a ‘see-saw’ motion as this can weaken them and make them split.

Step two: Apply a basecoat

A good base coat protects your nails from stains and it provides a smooth surface for your nail polish to adhere to. Think of it as a primer for your nails. Not only that, it helps keep out moisture from the nail bed which can cause weak and bendy nails.

Step three: Apply two coats of nail polish

Next up in our summer holiday nail care guide is applying your nail colour. From pistachio to lavender and of course, neon, try these on-trend colours for size this summer.

Neon shades look ah-mazing with a tan. Remember to let the first coat dry completely before you apply the second. For healthy strong nails, choose plant-based or vitamin-enriched formulas.

Step four: Seal the deal

You want chip-free glossy nails. The best way to achieve that is by sealing your manicure with a high-shine topcoat. Shine like the diamond you are and inspire some serious nail envy (as well as holiday envy) on your Insta pics.

Step five: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

The best way to protect your nails from the sun, sea, sand, (and pool) is keeping them hydrated. Nourish your cuticles with a cuticle oil and slather some hand cream on throughout the day. You can even add a few drops of cuticle oil to your hand cream for extra nourishing goodness.

So there you have it, the secrets to a gorgeous manicure and perfect healthy nails all summer long!

For more on nail care and the products you need for flawless manicures, check out the rest of our blog.