Summer is here, and if you’re like us, you’re eager to make the most of it! If you’ve read our latest article: Best Summer Manicures for 2024, you know that summer is the perfect season to bring out your vibrant nail colors and indulge in some whimsical nail art.

Although we love the summer season, the sun, sand, and water can be harsh on your nails. Here are our best tips and treatments to keep them healthy and maintain your manicures and nail art all summer long!

The best tips for glowing nails in the sun

1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

Summer often means frequent dips in the pool, spa, or sea. The chlorine in pools and the salt in seawater can easily dehydrate your nails and cuticles. To prevent this, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean your hands after each swim and hydrate your skin and nails.

Looky Tip: To minimize the harsh effects of chlorine and salt on your nails, you can also apply a protective base coat before diving in. Don’t forget to use suitable care products to maintain hydration for your nails and hair after each swim. Consider treating yourself to a hand massage (because you deserve it!) to complete your care routine.

2. Say no to soft nails

Who doesn’t want to spend the day lounging in the pool or spa? Certainly not us! However, it’s important to mention that prolonged exposure to water can soften your nails, making them more prone to breaking. After swimming, dry your hands thoroughly and apply care products such as cuticle oil or moisturizer rich in vitamin E to nourish your nails and keep them healthy.

Looky Tip: During your next visit to the Looky Boutique in Mercier, Valleyfield, or Quebec, feel free to ask our experts for personalized advice on the best treatments for your nails and hair after a day in the sun or pool. Check out our services and prices here .

3. Protect your hands from UV rays

An afternoon of gardening ahead? Like the skin on your face, your nails can also suffer damage from UV rays. Indeed, they can dry out your nails, making them brittle and fragile. Don’t forget to wear gloves when exposed to the sun for a long period; this will help keep your nails healthy and your manicure and nail art looking good longer too!

Looky Tip: In addition to gloves, use specific moisturizing products for your nails and hair after each sun exposure. You can find a selection of these products at one of the Looky Boutiques and online. Regular manicures with proper care will help keep your nails healthy all summer long.

It’s also essential to protect not only the skin on your face and your hair but also your hands from harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen (SPF) to your hands can help prevent sun damage.

Looky Tip: A simple trick to remember this often-neglected area is to use the leftover sunscreen from your face on your hands! Adding this practice to your beauty routine will ensure complete protection for your skin and nails, keeping your hands looking beautiful.

4. Apply your nail polish indoors

We often get asked: Looky, can I apply my gel polish outside? Unfortunately, it’s not recommended for several reasons. Firstly, the UV rays from the sun can interfere with the curing process of the gel polish, leading to uneven results and a less durable finish. Additionally, UV rays can also cure the polish in the bottle, making the product unusable more quickly. For the best results, make sure to apply your gel polish in a well-lit and ventilated space but out of direct sunlight and away from outdoor elements.

Looky Tip: When applying your gel polish indoors, ensure the ambient light is sufficient for a perfect result. Use the quality products available in our online shop to guarantee an impeccable manicure.

5. Opt for gel polish alternatives

 

If you’re looking for an alternative to regular gel polish, no-lamp polishes are an excellent option for both manicures and pedicures. We particularly love them for creating a summer pedicure because they offer long-lasting wear and withstand summer activities like the beach and pool well. These polishes provide a shiny and durable finish similar to gel but without the need for a UV lamp to cure. They are perfect for use at home or on the go as they air dry and are easy to apply.

Looky Tip: Our beauty experts at Looky can recommend the best non-lamp polish products for a perfect manicure and pedicure all summer long. Feel free to contact us!

 

Let’s Soak Up the Sun!

By following these tips, you can enjoy the summer while keeping your beautiful nails healthy. Don’t forget to apply your gel polish indoors, maintain a strict hydration routine, and protect your nails from external aggressions like the sun and pool chlorine. With these practices, your nails, manicure, and nail art will remain flawless all summer!

Looky Tip: For even more personalized advice and suitable products, don’t hesitate to visit us at the Looky Boutique in Mercier. We will be delighted to help you protect your nails from the sun and keep them in perfect health. Check out our list of services and prices here.