From DIY to Salons: Everything You Need to Know for Beautiful, Healthy Nails All Summer Long.
Summer Nail Care:
Summer is here, and with it comes sandals, vacations, nights out with friends, and lazy days at the pool. Whether you’re hitting the beach or lounging by the water, you want your nails looking their best. That’s why many people choose to get their nails done.
There are many reasons why, including:
Self-care: Getting your nails done can be a way to take care of yourself and practice self-care. It can make you feel pampered and relaxed, and can be a way to treat yourself to a little luxury.
Aesthetics: Many people get their nails done because they want them to look beautiful and well-maintained. A fresh manicure or pedicure can give you a boost of confidence and help you feel put-together and polished.
Special Occasions: Nail services are often popular for special occasions like weddings, proms, or other formal events. Having your nails done can be a fun and festive way to celebrate a special occasion.
Relaxation: Nail salons often offer a calming and soothing environment that can be a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. For some people, getting their nails done is a way to relax and unwind.
Socialization: Going to the nail salon with friends or family members can be a fun and social activity. It can be a way to spend quality time together while also getting pampered.
Types of Manicures/pedicures
Summer is the perfect time to show off your manicure and pedicure. With the bright sunshine and long days, you’ll want to make sure your nails are looking their bestBut how do you choose the best type of manicure or pedicure for the season? Here are some types of manicures and pedicures that are perfect for summer.
Types of Manicures/pedicures:
Classic Manicure and Pedicure: If you’re looking for a traditional and reliable option, a classic manicure and pedicure is always a good choice. This includes filing, buffing, and shaping the nails, as well as cuticle care and a relaxing hand and foot massage. You can add a pop of color with a bright polish or go for a more natural look with a clear coat.
2. Gel Manicure and Pedicure: For longer-lasting results, a gel manicure and pedicure may be the way to go. This type of manicure uses a special gel polish that is cured under a UV light, resulting in a chip-free finish that can last up to three weeks. This is perfect for anyone who wants to avoid frequent touch-ups and keep their nails looking great all summer long.
There is some concern about the potential health risks associated with getting gel manicures that require curing under UV or LED lamps. These lamps emit UV radiation which can cause skin damage over time. The amount of UV radiation emitted by these lamps is relatively low, but the cumulative effect of repeated exposure over time may increase the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
To mitigate these risks, many salons now use LED lamps instead of traditional UV lamps, as they emit a lower level of UV radiation. Additionally, there are some steps you can take to minimize your exposure to UV radiation during gel manicures. For example, you can apply sunscreen to your hands and fingers before getting a gel manicure, or wear protective gloves that cover your hands and fingers while the nails are being cured.
3. Dip Powder Manicure: Dip powder manicures are becoming increasingly popular due to their long-lasting durability and versatility in design. The process involves dipping your nails into a colored powder and then sealing it with a clear topcoat. It provides a stronger alternative to gel manicures without harming your natural nails. With this type of manicure, you can enjoy your summer activities without worrying about damaging your nails.
4. French Manicure and Pedicure: The French manicure and pedicure is a timeless style that adds elegance and sophistication to your look. It involves painting the tips of your nails with a white polish while leaving the rest of the nail natural or painted with a sheer nude color. This is a great option for those who want to keep their nails simple yet chic.
5. Nail Art: For those who want to add a little extra flair to their nails, nail art is a fun way to express your creativity. From simple designs like polka dots and stripes to more intricate designs like florals and geometric patterns, there are endless possibilities when it comes to nail art. This type of manicure is perfect for those who want to stand out and make a statement.
Nail health:
In addition to choosing the right type of manicure or pedicure for summer, it’s important to take care of your nails all year round. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy nails:
Here are some tips for maintaining healthy nails and beautiful summer nails:
1. Keep Your Nails Clean and Dry: Make sure to wash your hands regularly and dry them thoroughly to prevent bacteria from accumulating under your nails. Avoid leaving wet nail polish on your nails for too long as this can cause fungal infections.
2. Moisturize Your Nails and Cuticles: Nail health starts with hydration. Use a moisturizer or cuticle oil to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated. This will help prevent them from becoming dry and brittle, and reduce the risk of developing hangnails or other nail-related infections.
3. Protect Your Nails:
Protect your nails from harsh chemicals and detergents by wearing gloves when doing household chores or working with chemicals. The same goes for nail polish removers containing acetone and other harsh chemicals. Instead, opt for natural nail polish removers that contain safe ingredients
4. Eat a Balanced Diet:
A healthy diet is important for overall health, including your nails. Make sure to include plenty of protein, biotin, and vitamins A, C, and E in your diet. These nutrients can help promote nail growth and strength by providing essential nutrients.
5. Avoid Biting Your Nails:
Biting your nails can lead to infections and weaken your nails. If you’re prone to biting your nails, try applying a bitter-tasting nail polish to discourage the habit.
Quality Nail Polish for beautiful summer nails
In addition to choosing the right type of manicure or pedicure, and taking care of your nails, the quality of nail polish does matter! While the $2 polish might be convenient, understanding that there are health risks to getting your nails dones- especially with low quality polish. Not only do breathe in the nail polish (not to mention removers, top coats, and treatments) while we paint our nails, but our nails and skin can absorb the chemicals in nail polish.
People should focus on using non-toxic, organic, and vegan nail polish for several reasons:
Health Benefits: Traditional nail polish often contains harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, which can be toxic and cause health problems. Non-toxic, organic, and vegan nail polish are made with natural ingredients that are safer and healthier for your nails and body.
High Quality: Non-toxic, organic, and vegan nail polish has come a long way in recent years and now offers high-quality formulas that are just as effective and long-lasting as traditional nail polish. With vibrant colors, glossy finishes, and chip-resistant formulas, you won’t have to sacrifice quality for safety.
Ingredients to avoid:
1. Formaldehyde: This chemical is a known carcinogen and is often found in nail hardeners and some nail polishes.
2. Toluene: This chemical is commonly used as a solvent in nail polish and has been linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
3. Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): This chemical is used as a plasticizer in some nail polish and has been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues.
4. Camphor: This ingredient can be toxic in large amounts and can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
5. Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP): This chemical is often used as a flame retardant and has been linked to hormone disruption.
6. Formaldehyde Resin: This chemical is a byproduct of formaldehyde and can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
7. Ethyl Tosylamide: This ingredient has been banned by the European Union due to its potential to cause antibiotic resistance.
Overall, it’s important to read the ingredients list when buying nail polish and avoid any products that contain these harmful chemicals. Look for non-toxic, organic, and vegan nail polish brands that use natural, safe, and healthy ingredients.
Our Favorite Brands of Nail Polish for Beautiful Summer Nails :
1. Zoya – Zoya is a popular brand that offers a wide range of vegan, non-toxic, and 10-free nail polishes. Their formula is free from formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), camphor, and other harmful chemicals. They also have a variety of shades and finishes to choose from.
2. Butter London – Butter London is another popular brand that offers non-toxic and 8-free nail polishes. Their formula is free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP. They also offer a range of shades, including classic and trendy colors.
3. Ella+Mila – Ella+Mila is a vegan and cruelty-free brand that offers non-toxic, 7-free nail polishes. Their formula is free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), and xylene. They also have a range of shades and finishes to choose from
4. AILA Cosmetics – AILA Cosmetics is a vegan and cruelty-free brand that offers non-toxic, 8-free nail polishes. Their formula is free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, sulfates, parabens, and petrochemicals. They also offer a range of shades and finishes, including glitter and metallic.
5. Pacifica – Pacifica is a beauty brand that offers non-toxic and 16-free nail polishes. Their formula is free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, camphor, formaldehyde resin, xylene, and parabens. They also offer a range of shades and finishes, including matte and shimmer.
6. Essie: Essie nail polishes have been tested with the strictest regulations in the world, wherever our products are sold. 100% vegan – no animal derived ingredients – and 8-free nail polishes. While there is no standardized definition for 8-free nail polishes, essie defines 8-free as nail polish formulated without the following eight ingredients: formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene and triphenyl phosphate.
7. Hermès’ signature nail polish: It feels shockingly luxurious, and is 8-free. “On the luxury end, Hermès’ nail enamel is impressive with 71 percent of its ingredients from natural origin,” says celebrity podiatrist Marion Yau, whom you can find on YouTube as Miss Foot Fixer. “It is made without formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP.”
Beautiful Summer Nail Colors:
some of the most popular summer nail colors that include non-toxic brands!
Coral:
This playful and vibrant shade is perfect for summer. It’s a great choice for both fingers and toes and works well with a variety of skin tones.
Also: Hermès Les Mains Nail Enamel in Rouge Exotique (pomagrante orange)
Greens:
Our Favorite:
WKF: A cool mossy green for surprise and delight in mani form.
Or try this! Amazing GARDEN PARTY
You cant’ go wrong with The Mint A sweet and refreshing pastel mint green.
Nudes:
Nude: You can’t go wrong with nude, ever!
Amazing Nude: Mums The Word
Or Try Steady On.
Finally, My Favorite, Champagne Princess
Blues:
Sky Blue: Light and breezy, sky blue is a versatile summer nail color that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Our favorite: Waterloo Blue
And The Beautiful and Luxurious Vert Écossais
Yellows:
Bright Yellow
Favorite Butter London – Bit of Sunshine
Also Love Bright & Focused
And SandCastle
Overall, there are many beautiful and trendy nail colors to choose from this summer. Whether you prefer bold and bright shades or soft and subtle pastels, there’s a perfect color for every preference and occasion.
Love the idea of DIY Summer nails?
Get ready to rock your summer nails with our FREE ultimate guide!
We’ve gathered all the essential non toxic (pregnancy safe!!) products you need for at-home nail care and the hottest nail trends of the season. From vibrant shades to trendy designs, this guide has everything you need to create salon-worthy summer nails from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a nail art pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ve included links to all the products you’ll need to make it easy and convenient. Don’t miss out on this must-have guide – download it now and get ready to show off your stunning summer nails!