The Mistake You May Be Making With Your Nails If You Have Older Hands

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As you get older, your beauty routine changes to fit the new challenges that come with age. For example, your older eyes might require waterproof eyeliner because they're more prone to being watery. And as your hair texture changes due to hormones and environmental factors, you may want to switch up your hairstyle to remain chic. Even the way you maintain and shape your nails may need to change to suit your older hands. 

One big mistake you might be making with your nails as you get older is sticking with a square nail shape, according to Lisa Kon, founder of Lisa Kon Nail Studios and Nail Product Line. "[The shape's] sharp edges can emphasize wrinkles and make fingers appear shorter and broader," Kon exclusively tells Women, adding that the square look appears heavier, which can draw unwanted attention to joint stiffness or swelling.

"In my experience, the most flattering nail shape for aging hands is the almond shape," Kon says. "It offers a soft, elongated silhouette that brings elegance to the hand while drawing attention away from common signs of aging, such as prominent veins or skin laxity. Almond nails have a timeless appeal and suit a wide range of hand types." Plus, short, rounded nails can even have health benefits. Shape isn't the only thing to consider, though.

Older hands are proof of a long-lived life, in which every wrinkle and fine line is deserved, so you want to keep them looking their best. When it comes to color, Kon recommends staying away from dark matte polishes. "[These] can make the hands appear dull and highlight imperfections," she says. Instead, stick to soft tones like pinks and muted reds, or even lean into the Bella Hadid-pioneered "grandma nails" trend of coral tones. A Red-vival City and Tempura-ture is Rising by OPI are great shade options if you're planning to rock the coral look, while Glazed N'Amused, also by OPI, will meet all your iridescent style needs.

You may also want to avoid excessively long nails, as they not only draw too much attention, but could appear disproportionate on older, more delicate hands, Kon says. The nail expert also suggests steering clear of heavy acrylics and bulky overlays, "which can exaggerate the appearance of aging," she says.

One thing you should embrace is protecting your nails and nail beds. "Consistent cuticle care and hand hydration are also key to maintaining a youthful look," says Kon. While you can keep your hands moisturized and cuticles in tip-top shape with products like Sally Hansen's Cuticle Massage Cream, coconut oil can also do the trick if you prefer products you already have at home. And yes, you should be moisturizing with cuticle oil every day.