Self-Care Manicure Top Tips for New Mums
Nails by Caroline (@nailsbycaroline_)
Postpartum can manifest differently for women, and many new mothers find themselves particularly affected by changes in their hair, skin, and nails. This is especially true for those who cherished self-care rituals, like salon visits, before their baby'Thans arrival. There is something so refreshing about looking down on your hands and seeing a clean and fresh manicure.
As a nail artist and soon to be mum myself, I wanted to share with you some inspiration that can help you get that low maintenance manicured feeling for longer.
Be strategic with your colour choice
Pick a neutral shade as your base which effortlessly complements your skin tone, this will allow the gel to grow out seamlessly rather than opting for something bolder which will require more regular visits to the salon to maintain. As much as time for yourself is so important as a new mum, it is equally as important that it is sustainable within your new routine.
A French polish finish is the perfect way to add a little something extra without the need for nail art, it’s classic and timeless! The perfect way to keep your natural nails looking tidy for longer.
Dolly BIAB by The Gel Bottle Inc is a personal client favourite!
Pick a length and shape which works for your new lifestyle
Long sharp shapes might not be the most practical for life with a new baby. You may want to pick a shape which is a little shorter and softer yet still complements your natural finger shape beautifully. Opting for a more natural approach with the use of a BIAB product as an overlay on your natural nail can be the perfect alternative to match your new lifestyle which may now demand a lot more from your hands than pre-mum life.
Keep nail art simplistic and minimalist
Plain isn’t for everyone, sometimes having a little fun on your nails can make you feel brighter. As a new mum picking something that will work day-to-day but will also ensure your manicure maintains a clean and fresh look for longer is a great choice. Sticking to your neutral base of choice with a little *extra* rather than always a simple French manicure can be a great alternative and is a super popular choice for my new mum clients.
Hydration, hydration, hydration
This will keep your new mani looking fresher for longer, reducing the need to visit the salon as often. A nail aftercare routine can really benefit the longevity of your gels and ensure less breakdown between what might have to be a longer stretch between appointments. Invest in a good quality hand cream and cuticle oil!
5 tips on at-home maintenance!
Getting to the salon might be the last thing on your mind as a new mum, you may not want to leave your new little bubble, or you may simply not have the time in your new routine. So here are five quick tips on how to create that salon feeling whilst in the comfort of your own home:
Prepare Your Nails: Start by removing any existing nail polish with a gentle nail polish remover. Then, trim and shape your nails using a nail clipper and file. Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher or orange stick to create a clean nail bed.
Soak and Exfoliate: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of gentle liquid soap or bath salts. Soak your hands for a few minutes to soften the skin and cuticles. After soaking, gently exfoliate your hands and nails with a scrub to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Moisturise: Apply a generous amount of hand cream or cuticle oil to your hands and nails, massaging it in thoroughly. Hydrating your nails and cuticles will keep them soft and prevent dryness and cracking.
Apply Nail Polish: Start by applying a clear base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better. Once the base coat is dry, apply two thin coats of your chosen nail polish colour, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. For a professional-looking finish, use thin, even strokes and try to keep the polish away from the cuticles.
Finish with Topcoat: Once your nail polish is dry, apply a clear topcoat to seal in the colour and add shine. This will also help prevent chipping and extend the life of your manicure. Allow the topcoat to dry completely before using your hands.
Bonus Tip: For a spa-like experience, consider adding aromatherapy oils to your soaking water, playing relaxing music, and lighting candles to create a soothing atmosphere.
With these tips, you can create a beautiful at-home manicure that rivals the results you'd get at a salon.
Lastly, at home option I always recommend to my clients is Peacci (@peaccibrand). They have a gorgeous range of polish shades, and they also offer a matching SKIN range with a scrub and hand mask! You can shop Peacci through their own website at ASOS and via Amazon making it super easy to get your hands on.
