How to Take Care of Nails in Winter: 7-Step Winter Nail Care Routine

Tools and materials:

• Cuticle oil 
• Acetone
• Cotton swabs
• Glass file
• Cuticle pusher (optional)
• Base coat
• Top coat
• Nail polish
• Hand moisturizer

1. Remove nail polish

Let’s start with the basics. Winter nail care is best done on natural nails. So, if you have nail polish or gel, go ahead and remove it.

First, apply some oil to your cuticles. This will help you not dry your cuticles once you apply acetone. 

To learn more about what oil I use, you can read my previous tutorial on DIY Cuticle Oil for Nail Growth - My Secret Recipe.

Next, remove your nail polish with acetone. I use a cotton pad for this.

If you’re wondering, I use 100% pure acetone, which I know not everyone likes because it's harsh and drying, but this is why I use cuticle oil before and after.

Now, onto the next step! 

2. Apply nail oil

Apply a generous amount of nail oil to your cuticle area and rub in the oil. Leave it on for a few minutes. 

Tip: You can apply cuticle oil even if you have nail polish on your nails. 

3. Push back cuticles

Once you’ve applied nail oil, go ahead and push back your cuticles. I’m using my clean nail for this step, but you could also use a clean cuticle pusher.

4. File your nails

Using a glass nail file, go ahead and file your nails to your desired length. 

Tip: If you're using a regular nail file (not glass), be sure to file in one direction. 

5. Apply a base coat

Next, go ahead and apply your favorite base coat. This is the most important step for any manicure, in my opinion. It helps prevent nails from staining and breaking. 

6. Apply nail polish 

Next, apply your favorite nail polish and top it off with an excellent top coat to seal the deal! 

7. Apply hand cream

Winter calls for a lot more moisturizing, and that’s why you should make it a habit to apply your favorite hand cream several times a day. 

How to take care of nails in winter

This is how to care for your nails during the winter! No chips, breaks, or dryness! Investing extra time during your winter nail care routine will make a world of difference.

Thanks for joining me, and I’ll see you again with more nail care tips!