How to take care of your nails if you’re over 50: expert advice

As dermatologist Anthony Rossi, MD explains, over the years, blood flow to the fingers can deteriorate, which, in turn, affects nail health. The structure of the plate often changes too: “If you look at it under the microscope, you will see that the cells are lifted – so the nails start to exfoliate and the varnish does not lie flat on it”, explains Dana Stern, MD, dermatologist.

The slowing of growth that begins after 40 years also leads to longer exposure of the nails to the environment and therefore a change in color and poorer hold. The conclusion from the experts is simple: with age, nails require more attention, these are the changes you need to make to your beauty routine.

First of all, say no to nail clippers – damage to the cuticle can lead to infection, which in turn will affect the nail matrix, which is the source of its growth. Second, moisturize your cuticles daily – medical pedicurist Marcela Correa recommends using jojoba for this, but notes that any other vegetable oil will work.

Peeling is necessary not only for the face, but also for your fingers. For exfoliation, Dr. Stern recommends using glycolic acid exfoliators once a week, do this before polishing.

Handwashing is very important for hygiene, but the combination of traditional soap and hot water can be too harsh on hands and nails after age 50. Doctor of medicine, dermatologist Ksenia Kobets recommends replacing soap with a mild cleanser and not forgetting gloves when washing dishes.

The famous manicurist Quiny Nguyen advises to throw away an emery board with a low grit, instead of buying a glass one with a high one – it is ideal for “sealing” the edge of a peeling nail.

“As we age, our nails don’t adhere as tightly to the bed anymore, and even a small injury can lead to onycholysis — separation of plaque from the skin,” says Dr. Stern.

“As you age, grooves can appear on the nails – it’s a normal and natural process,” says celebrity manicurist Simcha Whitehill, known as Miss Pop. – Do not try to remove them with polishing – you risk thinning the nail. Better to use a nail straightener.

As Ksenia explains, the condition of the nails mainly depends on the lifestyle – it is important to eat right, not to forget about physical activity and get eight hours of sleep a day. And Dr. Stern advises to become more picky and attentive: do not be afraid to ask the masters of the salon what methods of sterilization they use, and consult a doctor if your nails start to get worse – it may be a symptom of a disease.