How to get the nails of a hand model (minus the weekly manicure.)

Move over, hand models.

Our hands are probably one of the most neglected parts of our bodies – and yet they are always on show, so we need to look after them.

But it doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money at the nail salon every week. In fact, you can do a few simple things each week to ensure your hands are hydrated, protected and primed to fight signs of ageing.

So here are a few simple tips to get your hands looking their best, and staying that way.

1. Wear sunscreen.

Because your hands are usually always on show, they are susceptible to UV damage.

To avoid sun spots, pigmentation and early signs of aging, lather your mitts in sunscreen. And yes, this means in winter too.

2. Say no to UV lights.

The little UV lights in nail salons work exactly like tanning beds – and they not only age the appearance of your hands, but also increase your chances of getting cancerous skin spots on them. Research has shown that as little as eight uses of a nail lamp over two years will lend enough exposure to put you at serious risk of cancer.

So if you are getting shellac more than four times a year, then you could be in trouble. One of the best ways to prevent aging on your hands is to avoid UV lights and get a different nail treatment instead.

3. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise.

Moisturising is key to looking after your hands properly, especially after you have washed your hands. Apply a little moisturiser to keep your hands soft and wrinkle-free. I recommend using Jurlique’s Limited Edition Precious Rose Hand Cream, because it is rich enough to nourish your hands, but won’t leave them feeling greasy.

It has just been released to celebrate Jurlique’s 30th anniversary, and is made from Alchemist Roses, which have been grown and hand harvested on a farm in the Adelaide Hills. It will set you back $75 for 150ml and is well worth the investment.

4. Exfoliate.

Just like on your face, your hands also build up dead skin cells, and a gentle exfoliating scrub will keep them soft. I usually just use a little of the exfoliator that I use on my face on my hands while I am in the shower. Too easy.

5. Smooth and file your nails.

One of the most common reasons for ridged nails is aging. If you have a rough nail surface, then you can smooth and file them back (I use a filing, buffering, polishing all-in-one file, and there are a few brands that make them. You just follow the file around. The steps to follow are usually numbered on the file itself).

Using the buffing file, smooth the nail surface and file the ends of your nails to give them a good shape. If you find that this isn’t quite enough to smooth your nail surface, then I’d suggest investing in a ridge filler, especially if you’re painting your nails afterwards.

6. Use a cuticle cream.

In winter, cuticle cream is a brilliant way of keeping your nail beds hydrated.

I know that the skin around my fingernails always gets dry around this time of the year, and there isn’t anything worse than peeling dry skin around the nails. So, invest in a creamy cuticle lotion that will nourish and strengthen your nails and cuticles.

How do you maintain your hands and nails?

Speaking of nails, here are some of the best Pinterest has to offer:

Awesome manicures.

Want more? Try these:

The one question everyone’s asking about gel manicures…

19 of the most amazing manicures (plus easy tutorials for how to do them at home).