When you prioritize your skincare routine, makeup application is infinitely easier since you're starting with a smooth canvas. Similarly, focusing on the health of your nails makes nail polish application a breeze. Sadly, ridged, brittle nails are a reality during menopause, but that doesn't mean they have to be the bane of your existence.To better understand why the "nail slugging" trend is a game changer after menopause and how it can breathe new life into your nails, Parade spoke with two nail experts and a dermatologist. We asked them how menopause affects the health of your nails and how nail slugging can potentially help.If you're not familiar with the term, you'll want to check out our step-by-step guide, which includes tips to make sure you're gleaning all the hydration benefits of the process. Since everyone's nails are different, we've also included information on who should avoid this trend along with some tips on what to do instead.If you're ready to try this nail hydration hack, you'll want to stock up on the best keratin treatments, oils and balms to make sure you have everything you need. Luckily, the pros we spoke with were happy to share their top product picks.Related: Everyone Is Requesting These 9 Toenail Colors This Summer, According to a Celebrity Nail Artist
As you age, nails also tend to grow more slowly and recover less efficiently from everyday damage. Combine that with other forces working against your nails, and ridges and brittleness are a common reality.
What Is 'Nail Slugging'—and Does It Actually Work?
Nail slugging is a moisturizing technique that's inspired by skincare slugging."It involves applying a nourishing nail oil or treatment first, then sealing it in with an occlusive balm or ointment to minimize moisture loss," Svitlana Motyl, a nail artist, educator and the co-founder of Artme Nails Studio Chicago, tells Parade.
"When it comes to the skin surrounding the nails, this approach can be very effective. It helps reduce dryness, supports skin elasticity and improves the overall appearance of the cuticle area," she explains.
"The occlusive layer helps the beneficial ingredients remain in contact with the nail plate and surrounding skin longer, improving hydration over time," Motyl says.
However, nail slugging isn't a miracle cure.
Overall, Motyl says nail slugging works best in conjunction as part of a routine that includes gentle filing, minimal prolonged water exposure, a balanced diet and wearing gloves during household chores.
Hydration, here we come! To try nail slugging at home, follow these expert-approved tips:
Wash and thoroughly dry your hands.Gently massage a high-quality cuticle oil into the nail plate, cuticles and surrounding skin.Let the oil absorb for one to two minutes.Apply a thin layer of an occlusive balm or petroleum-based ointment over each nail and cuticle.For an intensive overnight treatment, wear lightweight cotton gloves.Repeat the process two to four evenings each week, or nightly if nails are severely dry."Healthy nails need hydration, not excessive amounts of product. A thin layer applied consistently works better than applying too much at once," she says.
The 2 Best Keratin Treatments for Slugging
Before getting started on your nail slugging routine, don't forget to stock up on some hydrating products. The pros we chatted with are fond of the picks below.
1. Dermelect Makeover Ridge Filler, $20
Amazon
Shop It on Amazon"This protein-rich treatment helps reinforce fragile nails while smoothing ridges that commonly become more noticeable with age," Motyl says.
2. Manucurist Paris Nail Strengthening Serum, $15
Amazon
Shop It on AmazonRelated: The Clever Nail Cuticle Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner
The 2 Best Oils for Nail Slugging
1. Luxio Nail + Cuticle Oil by Akzéntz, $15
Akzéntz
Shop It at Akzéntz"The oil is designed for both the nails and the surrounding skin. It helps soften and condition the cuticle, absorbs well and does not leave an overly greasy residue. For nail slugging, it works well as the nourishing step before applying a balm or another occlusive product," Slynko says.
2. CND Solar Oil Nail and Cuticle Conditioner, $15
Amazon
Shop It on Amazon"CND Solar Oil is one of the most recognized professional cuticle oils in the nail industry. It is formulated with a blend of lightweight natural oils and vitamin E to condition the nails and surrounding skin," Slynko says. "It is a strong choice for nail slugging because it can be massaged into the nail and cuticle area before applying a balm to help seal in moisture."
The 2 Best Balms for Nail Slugging
1. CeraVe Healing Ointment, $11
Shop It on Amazon"CeraVe Healing Ointment combines an occlusive base with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. I recommend it because it helps lock in moisture while also supporting the skin barrier. It is a good option for dry or sensitive skin around the nails and works well as the final layer over cuticle oil," Slynko says.
2. Aquaphor Healing Ointment, $17
Amazon
Shop It on AmazonRelated: 11 Pedicure Trends That Everyone Will Be Requesting This Summer, According to Nail Techs
"It's generally safe for most people, but it should be avoided on nails that show signs of an active fungal infection, such as thickening, yellow discoloration, crumbling or separation from the nail bed, unless directed by a health care professional," Spearman warns.
"If nail changes are sudden, painful, involve multiple nails or do not improve with good nail care, a dermatologic evaluation is important to identify any underlying medical condition requiring treatment," Spearman says.
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Related: Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals a Clever Concealer Trick for Mature Skin I Wish I'd Known About Sooner
Sources:
Svitlana Motyl is a nail artist, educator, competition winner, international competition judge and the co-founder of Artme Nails Studio Chicago.Maryna Slynko is an award-winning nail educator, international judge and the founder of Slynko Beauty Bloom Studio in Overland Park, Kansas.Dr. Dara Spearman, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Indiana.Hence then, the article about got ridged brittle nails why the nail slugging trend is a game changer after menopause was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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