Sadly mermaids, it is true that salt water, sand and heavy diving equipment do not mix well with manicures.
However, you can still maintain a beautiful set of nails while scuba diving by choosing the right type of manicure! So continue reading to discover the best manicure for scuba diving and how to keep your nails shining beneath the waves.
Gel Manicures:
When it comes to the best manicure for scuba diving, gel manicures are a top pick.
Gel polish is known for its durability and long-lasting shine. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice for scuba divers:
- Chip-Resistant: Gel polish is less likely to chip or peel, especially when assembling heavy scuba gear.
- Longevity: Gel manicures can last up to two weeks or more.
- UV Protection: Some gel polishes offer UV protection, shielding your nails from potential sun damage.
I have tried a huge variety of different nail polishes throughout my scuba diving career and the only way for my manicure to stand the test of time is by using Gel polish.
Extra tip:
Try to avoid touching sand, sand is gritty and can take the shine off the gel polish.
Short:
Sorry girlies, while a gel manicure can hold its own, it is essential to keep your nails short for scuba diving. Short nails are less likely to snag on dive gear and make it much easier to get into that wetsuit!
As someone that has done it several times, it is very painful catching a long nail on a cylinder valve or a fin strap (ouch!)
Consider Scuba diving gloves:
Consider wearing scuba diving gloves to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your nails.
Scuba diving gloves are also a great idea if you are diving in a rocky area and want an extra level of protection. I recommend trying on the gloves before you buy them, as I prefer gloves made from more flexible material for easy handling of my air gauge and inflator hose.
Pre-Dive Care:
Before your dive, take a few extra steps to ensure your manicure stays in tip-top shape. Moisturise your hands and cuticles to prevent dryness and cracking during the dive.
Post-Dive Maintenance:
After you have finished your dive, give your nails a little love!
- Rinse your hands with freshwater to remove any salt or sand from the dive.
- Reapply hand and cuticle moisturiser to replenish lost moisture.
- Consider using a nail strengthener to keep your nails strong and resilient.
Regular Touch-Ups:
While gel manicures are durable, they sadly aren’t invincible. Over time, you will experience growth at the nail bed. Schedule regular touch-up appointments with your beauty salon to keep your nails looking their best for your next scuba diving adventure!
Stay Salty! X