Here’s Exactly How to Detox Your Nails (The Right Way)

Don’t get us wrong, we love getting our nails done, but there are certain times where we notice that they still need some serious TLC. If your fingernails are sadly peeling away or if you’ve chewed them down to a stub, it’s time you join us in a detox challenge. As hard as it may be to take a break from the polish (we’re having withdrawals) your poor nails will be forever grateful. Here to help us on the nail road to recovery are three supreme experts — NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Bruce Katz, LA-based cosmetologist Linda Tran of Zenii Skin & Nails and nail expert Kait Mosh. Ahead, we break down exactly how to detox your nails in just ten days.

Remove and Replenish
First thing’s first, time to remove that chipped and flaking polish. What you may not realize is that many nail polish removers are acetone-based, which can dehydrate nails and cause them to be brittle. “The first thing I do is tell my patients to stop using acetone-based removers,” says Dr. Katz.

Now that your first step in the polish detox challenge is up, it’s time to soak. “Once your nails are clean, it’s time to restore moisture by soaking your fingers in warm water for 10-15 minutes every night,” says Dr. Katz. Add slices of lemon or a few drops of The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Beautifying Oil to the lukewarm water for extra hydration and brightening power.

Care for Those Cuticles
“A lot of us tend to forget this, but moisturizing our cuticles is extremely important to our nail health,” says Tran. Dry off hands after your daily soak and massage Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil into your nails and around your cuticle area each day. Once the oil has fully absorbed, you need to seal in the moisture. “Apply a thick moisturizing cream to your nails and leave it on overnight — this will allow the moisturizer to get into the nail and keep it hydrated,” says Dr. Katz. We suggest using Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve to form a glove-like protective barrier around your hands and nails while you sleep.

Extra Strength Solution
By morning, your nails should be dry and refreshed. Give them a quick wash and in place of colored polish, you’ll be using a strengthening treatment. Don’t fret, friends — you can still achieve shine by using a clear nail strengthener, says Tran.

Apply Essie Millionails to your nails, avoiding the cuticle area, every other day for one week. Once the week is up, remove the treatment with a non-acetone–based polish remover and start the regimen again! This is something you can definitely do for more than just ten days.

Protect Your Progress
Now that your nails are on the path to recovery, it’s more important than ever to steer clear of stripping agents. “Keep hands out of water as much as possible. When doing dishes, gardening, and similar activities — use gloves!!” says Kait. As we manicurists like to say: Treat your nails like jewels, not tools.

Recap
Remove any polish with an acetone-free remover and be sure to soak hands in lukewarm water each day. Apply a cuticle oil nightly and seal in moisture with a thick cream before bed! Keep hands out of water, and according to Mosh, it’s also important to keep the edges of your nails smooth with a good file to help them grow long and strong (no snags here)! Do this for ten days and then you can reward yourself!

Nail Polish Haven
It’s been a long journey (or so it seemed!), but now your nails are strong and ready for a treat — your favorite polish. Be sure to use a quality base and top coat like essie All in One Base Top Coat and integrate the nail-care challenge into your routine every so often to keep those nails strong.

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