UV exposure from sunlight can cause nail polish to yellow and discolor. Our experts offer advice on preventing your nails from yellowing while on vacation.
Preserving Nail Polish Colour During Holiday Activities
With the summer season upon us, many of us are looking forward to spending time by the pool and soaking up the sun. However, these activities can take a toll on our nail polish, causing discolouration and fading. Here are some tips to help you maintain your nail polish colour and finish during your holiday.
Firstly, it is advisable to limit direct UV exposure to your nails. Wearing fingerless UV-blocking gloves when possible and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to your hands about 20 minutes before sun exposure can help protect your nails from the harmful effects of UV rays. Additionally, try to minimize direct sunlight and consider wearing gloves if you are in the sun for extended periods.
Another important step is to use a top coat with UV protection. A clear top coat formulated to block UV light can protect your polish from photo-oxidation and yellowing. Tinu Bello, Senior Ambassador at Mylee, explains that lighter nail polish shades, especially whites, pastels, and sheer tones, are more at risk of yellowing or discolouration when exposed to sunlight and chlorinated water. Therefore, it is important to choose a top coat that offers adequate protection against these factors.
When it comes to pool activities, chlorine can degrade polish and cause fading or discolouration. After swimming, it is recommended to rinse your nails with clean water promptly. You might also consider applying a nail dehydrator before polish application to improve adhesion and reduce damage risk from chlorine.
When choosing a nail polish, it is best to avoid polishes with strong dyes prone to yellowing and use non-acetone removers. Gel and acrylic polishes are generally more resistant to discolouration than regular polish, especially if fully cured and dried before exposure. Mavala's Gel Finish Top Coat mimics the appearance of gel nails without requiring a UV lamp, providing professional-looking, high gloss talons without compromising the structure and health of natural nails.
Before applying spray tan or sunscreen, it is a good idea to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on your nails to create a barrier against DHA or sunscreen ingredients that may stain the polish.
Lastly, it is best to avoid using nail polish remover on your nails while on holiday, as it can dry out your nails and make them more susceptible to discolouration. Instead, try to reapply the top coat every few days to maintain the color and shine of your nail polish.
By following these tips, you can minimize chemical exposure and UV-related damage, preserving your nail polish colour and finish during holiday activities involving sun, pools, and sunscreen. If you are looking for a nail polish specifically designed for sun exposure or water activities, consider products like Nailberry UV Gloss Top Coat, which uses 3D reactive technology to cure itself in natural sunlight, extending wear time, boosting vibrancy, resisting fading and discolouration, and prioritizing the health of natural nails. Mylee's MyGel Top Coat also protects polish from chipping and peeling, ensuring long-lasting talons with a glossy finish when used with an LED or UV curing lamp.
Remember, taking care of your nails during holiday activities is essential to maintaining their health and appearance. By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer activities while keeping your nails looking great!
- To preserve the colour and finish of your nail polish, consider using a nail dehydrator before polish application to improve adhesion and reduce damage risk from chlorine when engaging in pool activities.
- Incorporating a top coat with UV protection into your nail polish routine can protect your polish from photo-oxidation and yellowing, especially for lighter shades like whites, pastels, and sheer tones that are more at risk of yellowing or discolouration.
- Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly on your nails before spray tan or sunscreen ensures a barrier against DHA or sunscreen ingredients that may stain the polish, promoting a well-maintained home-and-garden aesthetic while enjoying both beauty and health during the summer.
