Nakiya Sadikot

Monsoon may bring relief from the heat, but the humidity and moisture that come with it can wreak havoc on your hair and nails. Constant dampness, sweat, and frequent hand-washing during this season strip nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage. Cuticles soften and lift, nail polish chips faster, and infections become more common if hygiene isn’t maintained.  

While most of us focus on protecting our skin and hair during monsoon, nails often get overlooked even though they need just as much attention. We spoke to Kausar, Beauty Manager at BBlunt, who shares her insights on the most common nail concerns clients bring to the salon this season, and how to treat and prevent them the right way. 

Common Nail Concerns in Monsoon 

As observed by Kausar at the salon, clients enter with common issues like brittle or peeling nails, dry cuticles, ridges, weak nails after repeated gel or extensions, and uneven nail growth. During the monsoon, excess moisture affects the health of the nails and surrounding skin. 

Lifestyle that leads to weakening nails: 

  • Frequent exposure to water and cleaning chemicals  
  • Using nails as tools 
  • Nail biting  
  • Aggressive filing  
  • Incorrect removal of gel or extensions 

“At a salon, the treatment should ideally be selected after looking at the condition of the natural nail rather than simply following a trend” she advises. 

Nail Treatments for Common Concerns  

  • Vitamin E oils: Hydrate dry nails and cuticles 
  • Keratin strengtheners: Help condition peeling and splitting nails 
  • Protein-rich hardeners: Give additional support to thin, flexible nails 
  • Biotin restorative treatments: Help condition nails that have become weak after repeated gel services 
  • Nail slugging/intensive oils: Provide deep hydration to dry nails and cuticles 
  • Strengthening serums: Provide targeted care for weak or damaged nails 
  • BIAB/structured gel: Adds strength and structure to the natural nail and can be a good option for clients wanting to grow their nails while protecting them 
  • Spa manicure or pedicure: Helps assessing concerns and recommend the right treatment rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach while also taking care of hydration and maintenance 

Russian Manicure vs. Regular Manicure  

A Russian/E-file manicure is what uses specialised tools to carefully refine the cuticle area and create a very clean finish. A regular manicure generally involves manual cuticle grooming and nail care. The most important factor to distinguish between the two is the professional’s technique, hygiene and understanding of the natural nail. If performed correctly, these services can be a part of a good nail-care routine. 

Everyday Nail Care Tips from Kausar 

“If your nails are visibly thin or damaged, give them some time to recover and avoid picking or peeling products off. Keep them short, use cuticle oil daily and opt for professional treatments focused on hydration and strengthening” she notes.  

“I also recommend having your nails assessed by a professional before choosing your next service. Sometimes a simple manicure or nail spa treatment with proper aftercare is all that is needed; in other cases, a strengthening service such as BIAB may be more suitable. Consistent salon care combined with good home care gives the best results” she says.  

Adding cuticle oil and a good hand or foot cream to routine will make things so much better and easier. However, home care works best when combined with regular professional maintenance. A manicure or pedicure allows us to properly clean, shape, moisturise and care for the nails and cuticles. 

Major Dos and Don’ts to Maintain Healthy Nails  

Dos:

  • Keep nails clean and dry 
  • Moisturise your cuticles regularly 
  • Use gloves while doing household work 

Don’ts: 

  • Avoid peeling gel polish yourself or cutting the cuticles aggressively 

Monsoon nail care doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does call for a little extra attention. As Kausar notes, the right treatment depends on the condition of your natural nails, so a professional assessment always helps before choosing a service. Combine that with consistent home care: cuticle oil, moisturiser, and gentle handling, and your nails will come out of the season healthier and stronger.