Summer nail care matters more than many people think: we love showing off our hands and feet, but sun, chlorine, salt water and sand really take their toll on nails and cuticles. To keep your nails healthy and beautiful during the warm season, here are the most important tips – for fingernails and toenails.

Why nails are under extra stress in summer

• Chlorinated and salt water strip moisture and lipids from nails and skin.
• Sun and heat dry out skin and cuticles even more. UV light can also make coloured nail polish fade faster.
• Constantly switching between wet and dry makes the nail swell and shrink again – over time this makes it brittle.
• Open shoes and sand are hard on your feet: calluses and cracked heels are typical summer problems.

1. Moisture is key

• Nail oil every day: Apply nail oil to nails and cuticles morning and evening. A roller such as the BNC Nail Care Oil Roller Strawberry fits in your beach bag; for home, try e.g. BNC Nail Care Oil Tropical with a fresh summery scent.
• Hand cream after every swim: A rich cream such as the BNC Hand Cream Velvet – Rose Gold gives moisture back to the skin.
• Drink enough: On hot days in particular, enough fluids are important – for your whole body.

2. Protection from sun, chlorine and salt water

• Rinse after swimming: After swimming in the pool or sea, rinse your hands and feet with clean water, dry them well and then care for them with oil and cream.
• Don't forget sunscreen: The backs of your hands and feet get a lot of sun. Apply sunscreen and massage the rest into your cuticles.
• Protect polish with top coat: A top coat protects the colour from wear and refreshes the shine. Apply a new thin layer every few days.
• Gloves for gardening: Soil and sand roughen nails and cuticles.

3. The right manicure and pedicure routine

1. File short and round: Slightly shorter nails are practical in summer and break less often. For on the go, the BNC 3 Mini Files in a Pocket Case fit in any handbag.
2. Care for cuticles instead of cutting them: Soften them with oil and push them back gently. Injured cuticles are entry points for germs – especially at the swimming pool.
3. Cut toenails straight across: This helps prevent ingrown nails, which quickly start to press in tight sandals.
4. Remove calluses regularly: Gently and not too much at once, then moisturise well.

4. Beautiful feet for sandal season

Toenails and heels are in the spotlight in summer. Moisturise your feet thoroughly in the evening and apply a thicker layer of cream if your skin is very dry. You'll find detailed tips in our article The perfect foot care. If you notice changes to your toenails over a longer period, such as discolouration or thickening, have them checked by a doctor.

5. Nutrition for strong nails

• Eat a balanced diet: Protein, biotin, zinc and iron are important for nail quality. Summer salads with pulses, nuts and wholegrains are a good basis.
• Supplements only after consultation: Only take supplements if your doctor has found a deficiency.

Are your nails already brittle? Then also read Brittle nails – causes and what helps. For the colder months, we also have tips on nail care in winter.

Holiday checklist for your nails

• Nail oil roller
• Hand cream and foot cream
• Mini file
• Top coat for touch-ups
• Sunscreen for hands and feet

For summer colour inspiration, see Pastel nails – and to make your colour gel or shellac last, Make colour gel & shellac last longer.

FAQ: Summer nail care

Is chlorinated water bad for my nails?

Chlorine dries out nails and cuticles. Rinse with clean water after swimming and follow up with nail oil and cream.

Will gel nails last on holiday?

If well prepped and professionally applied, yes. Ideally have them done a few days before you travel and care for your cuticles regularly with oil.

Why does my nail polish fade in the sun?

UV light can bleach some colour pigments. A regularly renewed top coat protects the colour and refreshes the shine.

How often should I use nail oil in summer?

Ideally once or twice a day and after every swim.