Gloves and mittens can sometimes tear at our nails. If your nail splits, cracks or tears on the edge, drop a small amount of nail glue on the nail where it is damaged and then lay a tiny piece of facial tissue over the nail glue. Let the nail glue dry and gently buff to smooth. The benefit of using tissue rather than fabric is that when the tissue dries over the glue, it will become clear. If you use a fabric, like silk, you will see the individual stitches in fabric.
If you can’t make it into the salon to be pampered, you can make your own moisturizing treatment for your hands and feet that will counteract the drying effects of the cooler temperatures:
1) Take one cup of regular oatmeal and ½ cup of regular milk and heat up over the stove.
2) Stir until cooked, add sugar to thicken the mixture, and then let cool a bit.
3) When the mix is thickened, apply to hands and feet. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. The oatmeal soothes dry, itchy skin, and the milk acts as an exfoliant to help get rid of dry and dead skin cells.
4) Finish off with pure shea butter as a moisturizer or a product that contains shea butter.
If you don’t have the time for an at-home creation, pick up a pre-made treatment, like Atopalm’s Moisturizing Hand Treatment ($18 at www.atopalm.com). This hydrating formula is designed to soften the hands while reducing visible signs of aging. Moisturizers and antioxidants work to diminish dryness and dullness, while other ingredients tackle telltale signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. With regular use, the hands will become softer, smoother, brighter, and more comfortable.
