RUBY’S GUIDE TO NAIL CARE

Beautiful nails don’t just happen - they’re the result of care, technique, and investing in the right tools. As we age, our nail growth can start to slow and our collagen levels naturally reduce, leaving our nails more brittle, prone to breakage and discoloured. Repeated exposure to harsh chemicals and cosmetics can also worsen the problem over time..

Filing properly, nourishing your cuticles, and remembering nail care doesn’t stop at your hands (don’t forget your feet!) can transform your everyday grooming chore into a small, luxurious ritual. Here are my top-tips to elevate your nail care routine -

File in one direction… 

Whilst nail clippers can be useful to reduce the length of your nail, they can leave us with sharp, jagged edges. A well-shaped nail starts with filing. The goal isn’t just a pretty edge - it’s important to think about nail health. Smooth, sealed edges prevent splitting, snagging, and peeling, which means longer-lasting manicures and stronger nails.

Ruby’s tip: Always file in one direction, starting at the edge and moving toward the centre. Avoid the back-and-forth sawing motion that causes your nail to tear. Though if must, only ever file in this way with a glass file.

Glass is always better…

Not all nail files are created equal. While traditional emery boards can leave nails rough and prone to breakage, glass files give a clean, smooth finish. They seal the nail’s edge as you file, preventing fraying and cracks.

Why is glass SO good? 

• Gentle: Less stress on fragile nails. Avoiding the bumpy edges of an emery board that can cause micro tears, the etched glass smoothes the nail edge.
• Durable: Unlike disposable files, glass lasts for years. Whilst initially they may seem pricier, you won’t have to keep re-purchasing - it’s an investment.
• Hygienic: Easy to clean in-between uses.

My must-have tools…

It’s been over twenty five years since I launched the first glass nail files in the UK with Ruby & Millie, and they truly are a game-changer.

"Millie Kendall and I launched the first glass files in the UK as Ruby & Millie... and we still regularly receive messages to say they are still going strong over twenty years later." - Ruby Hammer

My Nail Files offer gentle abrasion that prevents tearing and splitting while shaping, and they’re durable, hygienic, and sustainable - lasting for years. They can be sanitised and reused again and again with over 10,000 hours of filing time you will never need another file… unless of course you drop it.

My Nail Kit is perfect for on the go nail care, containing a mini nail file and cuticle pusher. Compact enough to fit in the smallest of bags, it ensures your nails are looking healthy, elegant, and professionally maintained wherever you may be. 

Hand Care Essentials…

Healthy nails begin with healthy hands. After filing, take time to nourish your hands - this is what takes nail care from a mundane task to a self-care ritual to look forward to.

• Hand Cream: My favourite is from 79 Luxe. Rich yet easily absorbed, it helps to reduce inflammation and boost collagen production. Massage it into knuckles, between fingers, and along the nail beds for supple, hydrated skin.
• Cuticle Oil: Hydrated cuticles = stronger, healthier nails. My go-to is Solar Oil, brush the oil over the nail surface and massage it into the cuticles using gentle, circular motions.

Don’t Forget Your Feet!

I have always groomed from top to toe and the changing of the seasons makes me conscious of my bodies needs... Feet are often neglected, especially during the winter, but they deserve the same care as our hands. Regular grooming keeps them looking and feeling their best, all-year round.

My Foot File is built to last a lifetime (unless you drop it). The chemically etched glass is perfect for removing hard, dry, flaky skin gently whilst remaining hygienic, and easy to store in a bathroom without fear of it rusting or needing batteries like other foot files. Simply use, wash, and it's ready to reuse. Finish off with a rich foot cream/balm, for feet left feeling salon-fresh.

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Professional results aren’t about complexity or expensive treatments - they’re about consistency, technique, and quality care. With a glass file, nourishing balm, and cuticle oil, you’ve got a fool-proof routine that keeps nails, hands, and feet looking polished every day. Self-care starts at your fingertips (and toes) 💅🏾