How to Care for UV Gel Nails in Colder Weather Using Semilac Products

As the seasons change and temperatures drop, our beauty routines need adjusting – and this includes nail care. Colder weather can take a toll on UV gel nails, causing dryness, peeling, and even brittleness. However, with a few key tips and high-quality Semilac products, you can ensure your UV gel nails remain as stunning and resilient as ever during the winter months.

Here’s a guide on how to care for your UV gel nails during colder weather using Semilac products.

Hydration is Key

Cold temperatures and indoor heating can dehydrate both your nails and cuticles, leading to chipping and peeling. To combat this, hydration should be a top priority.

Use Semilac Cuticle Oil: Regularly applying the Semilac Nail & Cuticle Elixir will keep your cuticles soft and moisturised. The elixir is infused with nourishing oils that prevent dryness and ensure your nails look well-groomed.
Drink plenty of water: Hydration from the inside is equally important. Ensure you're drinking enough water daily to support healthy nail growth.

Protect Your Hands and Nails

Exposure to cold air, wind, and extreme temperature changes can weaken your nails. Make sure you protect your hands whenever you’re outdoors.

Wear gloves: Always wear gloves when you head outside during colder months. Whether it’s wool or leather, gloves create a barrier against harsh weather conditions that can strip moisture from your hands and nails.
Apply hand cream: Regularly use a nourishing hand cream such as Semilac's Regenerating Hand Cream to maintain the skin's moisture levels. Applying it after washing your hands and before wearing gloves is a great way to lock in hydration.

Strengthen Your Nails

Winter can cause your nails to become brittle, so strengthening them is essential to prevent breakage and splitting.

Use Semilac Vitamin Base: Apply a strengthening base coat like Semilac’s Sensitive Care Base before applying your UV gel polish. It contains vitamins E, which nourish your nails and prevent them from becoming weak or brittle. This base coat also creates an even surface for your UV gel application, prolonging the lifespan of your manicure.
Limit exposure to harsh chemicals: Try to avoid overexposing your nails to household cleaning products, as these can damage both your UV gel manicure and natural nails. Wear gloves when cleaning to reduce direct contact with these harsh chemicals.

Seal and Protect Your UV Gel Nails

A UV gel manicure is generally more durable than regular polish, but cold weather can still affect its longevity. Ensuring a solid, protective finish is crucial for making your manicure last.

Apply Semilac Top Coat: Always finish your UV gel manicure with a top coat such as Semilac Top No Wipe or Top Mat Total. This top coat not only seals your colour but also provides a protective layer against environmental factors like moisture and temperature changes.
Reapply top coat: After about a week, you can refresh your manicure by reapplying a layer of Semilac’s top coat. This keeps the shine and protection intact, extending the life of your gel nails.

Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure

While cold air can dry out your nails, so can excessive heat. Indoor heating systems and hot showers can dry out both your skin and nails, so it's essential to strike a balance.

Avoid overly hot water: Keep showers and handwashing water lukewarm. Hot water can weaken your UV gel nails, leading to premature chipping or lifting. Similarly, don’t use high heat when drying your hands – gently pat them dry instead.

Be Gentle with Your Nails

Winter weather may also make you more prone to nail breakage, so it’s essential to avoid activities that could damage your manicure.

Avoid using your nails as tools: Use a tool rather than your nails to open packages or scratch off labels. Your UV gel nails are strong, but cold weather can make them more susceptible to breakage if not handled carefully.
Take care with filing: If you need to file your nails, use a fine-grit file and gently file in one direction. Filing aggressively can weaken the structure of your UV gel nails, especially in colder weather.

Repair and Maintain Regularly

Even with the best care, winter may cause the occasional chip or lifting, so knowing how to repair your nails quickly and effectively is essential.

Touch up with Semilac Base Coat: If you notice any lifting or small chips, lightly buff the area and reapply Semilac’s Base Coat before applying your Top Coat to reseal the UV gel. This will help maintain the overall look and prevent further damage.
Schedule regular appointments: If you’re getting your nails done professionally, maintain regular appointments during winter. Regular maintenance will keep your nails looking flawless and ensure any issues are promptly addressed.

Final Thoughts

With the right care and attention, UV gel nails can stay beautiful and strong throughout the colder months. By incorporating quality Semilac products into your winter nail care routine, you’ll not only protect your nails from the harsh winter elements but also ensure they remain glossy, healthy, and vibrant. Follow these tips, and your manicure will look fresh and flawless, no matter the weather!