Nail health often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves. For salon owners and nail technicians, educating your clients about how important healthy nails are can set you apart from the competition. Well-maintained nails are both aesthetically pleasing and add to your overall well-being.
Lots of people face common nail-related problems that can affect their daily lives. From brittle nails to fungal infections, these issues can be a nuisance and, sometimes, even a sign of underlying health issues.
Getting this message across to your clients can boost their trust in your expertise and services. That’s why we’ve put together a handy list of some top tips for reducing nail damage, as well as a few crucial dos and don’ts for healthy nails.
Things that Increase Nail Damage
Figuring out what causes nail damage is the first step on the road to preventing it. Giving your customers an insight into which everyday habits and salon treatments might harm their nails can make a big difference.
What everyday habits cause nail damage?
Daily activities can take a real toll on nail health. Some of these might be unavoidable. For example, frequent hand washing and exposure to water can weaken nails, making them more susceptible to splitting or breaking. Manual tasks like gardening, cleaning, or even typing can also chip away at their integrity. Bad habits like nail-biting, peeling off polish, and using nails as tools can be damaging, too.
These actions can lead to weakened nails and even, in some cases, infection. Giving your salon customers the lowdown on how these things increase nail damage and encouraging them to take mitigating steps where possible can go a long way. Suggest that they wear gloves when washing the dishes, cleaning, and gardening. Instead of using nails, suggest opening cans and stiff containers with a teaspoon.
Bad salon treatments can be a hindrance rather than a help.
Proper salon treatments can enhance the appearance and health of nails, but improper techniques and bad products can cause harm. Acrylics, gels, and nail extensions can weaken nails if not applied and removed correctly. Over-filing and aggressive cuticle treatments can be damaging, too.
It’s really important to emphasise the need for sterile tools and avoiding harmful chemicals. Encouraging your customers to avoid home treatments and to choose salons that prioritise safety and quality can massively help protect their nails.
What Are Some Tips for Reducing Nail Damage?
Preventing nail damage starts with adopting a comprehensive care routine. But what are some key do’s and don’ts for healthy nails?
Make sure your clients are moisturising.
Regular moisturising keeps your clients’ nails and cuticles hydrated. This can reduce the chances of dryness and splitting. Recommend hand creams and cuticle oils that nourish and protect the nails.
Try using protective coatings.
Using nail hardeners and base coats can add another layer of protection. These products help to strengthen nails and prevent breakage.
Avoid using harsh chemicals where possible.
Advise your clients to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals like acetone and household cleaners. These substances can strip nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry and brittle.
How Can Diet and Nutrition Improve Nail Health?
A balanced diet plays a vital role in maintaining healthy nails. Highlight the importance of consuming vitamins and minerals that promote strong nails.
The importance of a balanced diet.
Try suggesting that your clients add sources of biotin, vitamin E, and zinc to their diets. These nutrients are great for keeping nails strong and healthy.
What are some nail-friendly foods?
Ingredients like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and fish are excellent for promoting nail health. Consider suggesting meals and snacks that incorporate these foods.
What Are some Health-Oriented Nail Treatments to Offer Your Clients?
Using organic products.
Explore the popularity of organic and eco-friendly nail products. Coincidentally, these are usually free from harmful chemicals and are better for both nails and the environment.
Trying waterless manicures.
Chat about how waterless manicures can help in reducing fungal and bacterial infections. By removing water, these manicures often offer a more hygienic alternative.
Opt for keratin-based treatments.
Introducing keratin-based nail strengthening and hydration therapies is a great tip for reducing nail damage. These treatments replenish the natural protein in nails, making them stronger and more resilient.
LED/UV light treatments.
Explain the benefits of using LED/UV light treatments for gel nails. They can cure nails faster and more effectively, resulting in longer-lasting manicures.
Nail detox programs.
Emerging nail detox programs are aimed at restoring natural nail health. These programs involve periods of rest and recovery for the nails, allowing them to rejuvenate and grow stronger.
Looking to Keep Your Clients Healthy and Safe?
In a salon environment, it’s not just your clients’ nails that need to be kept healthy. The risks of inhaling harmful airborne fumes and dusts are not to be underestimated and can lead to serious health conditions. From headaches, nausea, and discomfort to potentially life-threatening illnesses, it’s crucial that you’re utilising the right fume and dust extraction systems to keep your staff and clients safe.
At VODEX, we’ve built our business around protecting people from harmful fumes and dusts. Since our inception over ten years ago, we’ve specialised in extraction systems for a range of industries, from artisan workshops to jewellers and, of course, the beauty sector.
To find out more about how we can support your salon to be as safe and healthy as possible, call us on +44 (0)1489 899 070 or get in touch through our website today.
