Summer Nail Care Tips: Keep Your Nails Healthy in the Heat

When the temperatures rise, so do the risks to your nails. Whether it's poolside lounging, sandy getaways or just sticky commutes, summer brings a whole new set of challenges for both natural nails and enhancements.

As a nail tech, this is your cue to educate your clients - and upsell where relevant - on the best summer nail care routine to maintain flawless nails all season long.

Why Does Nail Care Matter More in Summer?

Just like your skin, your nail plate and cuticles are more vulnerable in the heat. Sun exposure, chlorine, sea salt, and higher sweat production can cause dryness, discolouration, lifting and brittleness - especially on gel, BIAB or acrylic nails.

According to the British Journal of Dermatology, nail plates can lose up to 15% of their moisture content during hotter months, leading to splitting and breakage if hydration isn’t maintained.

Top 5 Summer Nail Care Tips (for Clients to Know & Nail Techs to Share)

1. Hydration Is Non-Negotiable 💧

Dehydrated nails = brittle, breakable nails. Just like your skin, nails need hydration from both inside and out. Encourage clients to drink plenty of water daily and use a hydrating cuticle oil morning and night.

Stat to share: A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that consistent use of cuticle oil can reduce nail breakage by 42% over a 4-week period.

Have you tried our MUSE Nail & Cuticle Oil? It's fast-absorbing, nourishing, and perfect for year-round nail health.

2. Don't Skip SPF on Hands ☀️🖐

Many clients forget the impact of UV rays on their hands and nails. Direct sunlight can lead to:

• Premature ageing on the backs of hands

• Yellowing of gel or BIAB nails

• Weakened natural nail structure

UV exposure is one of the most common causes of colour fade and premature lifting on gel nails. Applying SPF 30+ before heading out should become a daily habit.

💡 Tip for techs: Recommend SPF formulated for hands or offer mini tubes as retail add-ons.

3. Chlorine, Salt & Sand = Nail Enemies 🏖️

Water might be great for relaxing, but chlorine and salt water strip the natural oils from your nail bed and cuticle, weakening the overall nail structure. Add sand abrasion and you're left with a recipe for peeling, lifting and discolouration.

Recommend:

• Wearing gloves if clients plan to swim soon after a fresh set

• Rinsing hands in clean water after the pool or sea

• Reapplying cuticle oil after beach or pool sessions

A 2022 industry study showed that 72% of clients who wore enhancements while on beach holidays experienced premature lifting or breakage without proper care.

4. Don’t Stretch Appointments ⏳

Skipping infills might feel convenient in summer, but it puts nails at risk. Overgrown enhancements weaken structure, expose more natural nail underneath, and increase chances of snapping or water getting trapped.

Encourage clients to stick to their 2–3 week refill schedule, especially before holidays or heatwaves.

💡 Tip for Techs: Why not promote a “pre-holiday maintenance” mini-infill or quick tidy-up service for regulars.

 

5. Summer Doesn’t Mean DIY Is Safe 🧰

It’s tempting for clients to fix a chip or lift themselves - but it almost always causes more harm than good. Picking, peeling or filing at home with the wrong tools can lead to nail plate thinning and long-term damage.

Instead, recommend:

• A glass nail file for gentle shaping

• A cuticle oil pen for on-the-go hydration

• Visiting you for professional removal or repairs

Did you know, 3 out of 5 clients who attempt their own gel removal cause visible nail trauma, according to a 2021 Nail Professionals Survey.

 

Bonus Tip for Nail Techs: Upsell Nail Care Kits

Why not offer clients a mini “Summer Nail SOS” kit at checkout? Bundle items like:

• Cuticle oil

• Travel glass file

• SPF hand cream

• Nail brush or buffer

Add a printed aftercare card with your salon branding and social handles to keep clients loyal.

In Summary: Healthy Nails = Happy Clients This Summer

Summer nails aren’t just about the design - they're about prep, protection and smart aftercare. Share these expert-backed tips with your clients to help them enjoy longer-lasting manicures and reduce breakage, lifting or damage.

Want tools and products that keep up with the heat? Shop MUSE essentials here and get summer-ready with high-performance prep tools, cuticle oils and EFile bits.