Scrub the dead skin away
Just like the skin on your face, your hands need some exfoliating to remove deep-seated dirt and dead cell build-up to leave your skin smoother and softer. Can you use your body scrub? Yes, but it's recommended to get scrubs made for your hands. Hand scrubs are gentler on your skin because they are made with smaller granules, which makes them less abrasive. This step also preps your skin for the next step, moisturizing.
Try: Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Miracle Moisturising Hand Scrub, $26
Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize.
Moisturizing may sound cliche at this point, but it will always be a vital step in every skin care routine.
It's difficult for your palms to absorb moisture and the back of your skin is prone to wrinkling. You can prevent all these by using a good hand cream. It also keeps your hands smooth and soft as it prevents skin chafing and cracking. Use a moisturizer that doubles as a sunscreen, preferably with SPF 15 or higher for protection against the sun's UV rays.
Try: Supergoop! Forever Young Hand Cream, $12
Trim regularly
Trimming your nails prevents bacterial infection and ingrown nails. Even if you're into longer nails, giving them regular trimming keeps growth natural and healthy. To avoid breaking your nails, you may opt to use a nail filer instead of nail cutter. This way, you get to choose the length you want without applying too much force on your nails.
Buffing your nails to make them smooth is optional in your nail routine. However, you don't want to do it often as it will thin your nails and make it prone to breakage.
Image via kokouu/E+/Getty
All about nail cuticles
When it comes to taking care of your nail cuticles, put down that nipper and save yourself the unnecessary bloodbath (nothing is more painful than over-cutting your cuticles!). You don't really have to remove them as they're important for protecting your nails. A gentle push during your manicure session will do the job to keep nails neat.
If your concern is having dried cuticles, applying oil is your best friend. This may look like an unnecessary step since you've moisturized your hand already. However, cuticle oil helps your nails look healthier. It hydrates the skin around your nails and makes them stronger. Most of the cuticle oils available in the market are rich in minerals and nutrients that revitalize your nails.
Try: Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil, $9
Polish your nails
Going bare or polishing your nails is up to you. Feel free to choose which one fits your style. If you're going bare, it's better to apply a coat of nail strengthener to prevent your nails from breaking. It will also add a stylish and healthy gloss on your nails.
For nail designs, you can play with bold designs or minimalist styles. But if your nail polish starts to chip, remove it with an acetone-free nail remover to keep your nails healthy.
Try: OPI Start To Finish - Original Formula, $13.95
