A great manicure starts with a great canvas, so try these manicurist-approved methods to get the perfect base
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This year has brought many new and exciting nail looks and trends. From modern gel formulas like Japanese and builder formulas to revamps of classic designs , there are myriad ways to experiment with manicures. No matter how you choose to wear your nails (even if you prefer to go bare), it's important to care for your nail health.
The short answer is yes, but it is completely natural, and nail aging looks different on everyone. "Just like our skin and hair, our nails can naturally change as we age," says Giorgia Capella, head of product and education at The GelBottle. "
You may notice that nails become more brittle, thinner, or prone to splitting and peeling, while some people experience increased ridging or a change in texture,” she adds. “Nail growth can also slow down over time. These changes are completely normal, but they can mean our nails need a little more care and protection as we get older."
Margaret Dabbs , hand, foot, and nail expert, adds that "collagen production naturally decreases [with age], which affects the strength and resilience of the nail plate."
Hormonal changes also play a role. "[The time around] menopause can accelerate these changes significantly, as reduced estrogen levels affect both moisture levels and the overall integrity of the nail," Dabbs shares.
Small, everyday things do add up and make a difference. It seems obvious, but Capella suggests keeping nails at a comfortable length for you, filing away any snags, avoiding using nails as tools, and protecting your hands from prolonged exposure to water and harsh cleaning products.
Both experts agree that hydration is also key. "Adopt a dedicated nail care routine and stick to it,” Dabbs says. “I always recommend our Nourishing Nail and Cuticle Serum Pen , applied little by little and often throughout the day. Keep one on your desk, one in your handbag, and one by your bed. The cuticles in particular need consistent nourishment as we age, as dry, neglected cuticles compromise the nail's ability to grow back healthy and strong.” She’s also a fan of crystal nail files because they can help prevent micro-splits that lead to peeling and breakage—though results depend on not overfiling the nails.
"If your nails are naturally brittle or prone to breaking, I’m a big believer in giving them additional support," Capella says. " HypoFix+ from The GelBottle Inc . is a fantastic two-step option for brittle nails, helping to support the natural nail at your nail appointment, while maintaining a beautiful, healthy-looking finish."
Experts wax poetic about never peeling off your gel polish at home, no matter your age, but especially for older hands. "Peeling or scraping off gel at home is one of the most damaging things you can do to an aging nail," says Dabbs. Always have it applied and removed professionally, and avoid aggressively filing or buffing the nail plate, as it can thin and damage it. If you remove your gels at home, follow the correct protocols and take extra time to gently file them off.
If nail strength is an issue, Capella recommends exploring BIAB or builder gel. "It provides a much stronger, longer-lasting base than a traditional gel manicure and can be worn beautifully on its own, or used as a base for gel c…