Skip These Nail Trends If You Have Older Hands

As we age, our beauty routines need to change, but it may surprise you to learn that this also includes opting out of certain nail trends. To understand what to steer clear of if you have older hands, Women spoke exclusively to celebrity nail artist and founder of Exclusive Nail Couture, Max Estrada, for some insight into this dilemma. "Very pale, chalky nudes or milky whites can sometimes make hands look washed out rather than fresh, depending on the person's undertone," he exclusively tells Women, which means saying goodbye to milk nails. That certainly checks out per our guide on what nail colors to avoid if you have older hands, but Estrada helps further by pointing out what nail trends to turn to instead. 

Per Estrada, deeper, richer colors are the way forward. He also notes that the classic French manicure works well with older hands, as well as animal prints and different visual effects. He notes, "Tortoiseshell and animal prints are especially fabulous! They're practically neutrals in fashion, and they don't have an expiration date. A velvet cat-eye finish adds luxurious depth without needing a complicated design." Estrada emphasizes that any nail polish shade works if it complements your skin's undertones. "I don't believe a nail color automatically becomes off-limits at a certain age," he shares, adding, "The answer isn't to stop wearing color; it's to find a more flattering version." But aside from color and design trends, Estrada believes shape and length are also crucial.

Aging doesn't mean adopting a more reserved look. And for older hands, keeping your nails trimmed and short isn't necessary — nor is it the most flattering. While there are short nail designs for women over 40 that feel sophisticated, Estrada strongly advises going in the opposite direction for nail length. "The idea that older women must retreat into short, neutral nails is completely outdated," he tells Women exclusively, continuing, "I actually think a longer, glamorous manicure can give hands a wonderful sense of energy and style." Not only does a longer nail provide more space for you to play around in, but it also makes your hands look slender and graceful.

Additionally, our resident expert cautions against opting for square-shaped nails. Instead, Estrada notes that delicate, softer nail shapes are much more suitable for older hands. "An oval, almond, or softly tapered shape can create a more elongated, elegant appearance," he says. And for a further aesthetic boost, Estrada stresses the importance of taking good care of your hands through cuticle care and constant moisturizing. It's clear that getting older doesn't entail confining yourself to dull nail trends, and there's never an age restriction to looking and feeling your best.