How to Prevent Dry Cuticles in Autumn - Your ultimate guide to soft an

As the air turns cooler and the days get shorter, your hands and nails start to feel the change too. Autumn might bring cosy jumpers and pumpkin spice everything, but it also means drier air, chilly winds, and central heating - a recipe for dehydrated skin and dry, cracked cuticles.

Here’s how to keep your hands perfectly soft and your cuticles nourished all season long.

1. Moisturise - and Then Moisturise Again

The biggest secret to healthy autumn cuticles? Hydration.

Just like your face needs extra moisture in autumn, your cuticles crave it too. Use a cuticle oil or nourishing elixir every day - ideally after washing your hands or before bed.

Try: Semilac Nail & Cuticle Elixir Oils, enriched with natural oils and vitamins. Massage a few drops into your nails and surrounding skin to keep them supple and hydrated.

Pro tip: Keep one oil in your handbag and another on your bedside table - that way, you’ll never forget to apply it.

2. Choose a Rich Hand Cream

A lightweight lotion won’t do the trick when temperatures drop. Switch to a thicker, buttery hand cream with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or almond oil like Semilac Care Sweet & Flowery Hand Cream. Apply it after every hand wash to protect your skin barrier.

Bonus tip: Once or twice a week, apply a generous layer of hand cream, put on cotton gloves, and leave it overnight - your skin will feel like silk by morning.

3. Protect Your Hands Outdoors

Cold air and wind can strip moisture from your hands in minutes. Before stepping outside, always wear gloves - not just for warmth, but for protection.

Even short walks can make your cuticles dry and sensitive. And don’t forget to wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes - detergents can be just as harsh as the cold.

4. Be Gentle with Your Manicure Routine

Over-filing or excessive cuticle cutting can make dryness worse. Instead, use a soft file, avoid harsh removers with acetone, and gently push back your cuticles using a wooden stick after a warm soak.

Follow up with cuticle oil immediately after your manicure to lock in moisture and prevent irritation.

5. Support Your Skin from Within

Beautiful nails and healthy cuticles start with good nutrition. During autumn, include foods rich in vitamin E, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet - such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and salmon.

And don’t forget to drink plenty of water! Hydrated skin heals and regenerates faster, even when it’s cold outside.