Do My Nails Need A Break?

How Often Should You Give Your Nails a Break? Let’s Talk Nail Health.

If you love keeping your nails pretty, polished, and sparkling (especially with quick, gorgeous nail strips) - then you’ve probably wondered at some point:

“Do my nails need a break?”

Great question, friend. Great blog topic, too.

Here’s the truth: Caring for your nails isn’t about going bare for weeks at a time or depriving yourself of cute manicures. It’s about giving your nails the TLC they deserve while still enjoying your favorite sets. Think of it like self-care for your fingertips!

Let’s break it all down.

What Does It Mean to Give Your Nails a Break?

A “nail break” simply means taking time to:

💅Let your nails rehydrate
💅Replenish natural oils

💅Strengthen any weak spots
💅Nourish the nail beds and cuticles
💅Address peeling or breakage if it’s happening

This does not mean going polish-free forever. It can be as short as 24–72 hours - just enough to reset, refresh, and strengthen your natural nails before popping on your next Color Street set.

Do You Have to Take Breaks Between Sets?

Short answer: It depends on your nails.
Longer answer: Most people benefit from at least a tiny breather every now and then.

Color Street is made with real nail polish, so it’s gentle compared to acrylics, gels, and dip powders. There’s no UV light, no drilling, and no harsh bonding.

BUT even the best manicure routine can leave nails a little thirsty over time. So giving them a mini spa day (or two) between sets keeps them happy, hydrated, and strong.

Signs Your Nails May Need a Break

If you notice any of these, your nails are throwing shade and asking for some pampering:

✨ Peeling
✨ Brittle or snapping easily
✨ Vertical ridges looking more noticeable
✨ Dry or chalky texture after removal
✨ Sensitivity or tenderness
✨ Cuticles looking rough or irritated

These aren’t reasons to panic - they’re just little reminders to show your nails some love.

How Long Should Your Break Be?

Everyone’s nails are different, but here are some simple guidelines:

1. For Healthy Nails

A quick day or two between sets is usually perfect. Think of it like letting your nails drink a big glass of water before wearing polish again.

2. For Dry or Peeling Nails

Try 2–5 days with a steady routine of cuticle oil and moisturizer.

3. For Very Damaged or Thin Nails

A full week of TLC can work wonders—especially if you lean on strengthening products.

Don’t worry, this doesn’t have to be a sad, bare-nail week. You can still buff them lightly, use clear strengthener, or even rock a nail serum to give them a glossy “clean girl” look.

What Should You Do During a Nail Break?

This is where the magic happens. ✨
A good nail break is like a spa getaway for your hands—minus the overpriced cucumber water.

Here’s your mini-routine:

1. Moisturize. Then moisturize again.

Your nails need hydration the same way your skin does. Use:

💅Cuticle Oil
💅Restorative Nail & Cuticle Cream
💅Hand Lotion
💅Strengthening Nail Serum

Go wild. They love it.

2. Use a Nail Strengthener

This gives your nails extra support while they recover and grow. If you want a little shine without full color, use a clear strengthener or ridge-filling primer.

3. File Gently (No Sawing!)

Smooth the edges. Give them shape. No violence, please.

4. Keep Nails Dry for a Few Hours After Removal

Let them breathe and rebalance their natural oils before applying anything new.

5. Wear Gloves for Cleaning

Your nails will thank you by not peeling or breaking like tiny rebels.

Can You Use Color Street Too Often?

Nope - not if you:

• Remove them properly (hello, Nourish Remover)

• Moisturize (cuticle oil is your bestie)

• Take short, intentional breaks

• Keep your nails protected

You can absolutely wear Color Street back-to-back with smart habits.

If you need nail care products, Color Street offers some great bundle options:

1, Nail Care Basics $25 - Each bundle includes Strengthening Nail Serum, Nail Strengthener, Ridge Filling Nail Primer

2. Nail Pick-Me-Up $25 - Includes: Nail Strengthener to help toughen fragile nails and Restorative Nail & Cuticle Cream to help hydrate cuticles and strengthen nails.

3. Nail Therapy $34 - Includes: Strengthening Nail Serum to help restore brittle, worn out nails and Restorative Nail & Cuticle Cream to help hydrate cuticles and strengthen nails.

4. Hand & Nail Care Best Sellers $35 - Each bundle includes Nail Strengthener, Restorative Nail & Cuticle Cream. Ridge Filling Nail Primer, Nail Polish Remover, and Hand Lotion

5. Hand & Nail Renewal $36 - Includes: Strengthening Nail Serum to help restore brittle, worn out nails and Hand Lotion to nourish and moisturize hands.

6. Complete Manicure System $82 - Includes: Nail Polish Remover to gently and effectively clean nails; Ridge-Filling Nail Primer to conceal imperfections for a smoother base; Toffee Nut nail strip; Plumping Top Coat to give a thicker, gel-like finish to your nail strips; Restorative Nail & Cuticle Cream to help hydrate cuticles and strengthen nails; and Hand Lotion to nourish and moisturize hands.

The Bottom Line: Listen to Your Nails

Your nails are surprisingly chatty - they’ll tell you when they’re feeling fabulous and when they’re begging for a break. A short reset between sets helps:

💜 Maintain nail strength
💜 Prevent peeling
💜 Reduce breakage
💜 Improve the look of future manicures
💜 Keep your hands happy and healthy

Even 48 hours of TLC can make a world of difference.

And When You’re Ready … Bring on the Sparkle Again!

After giving your nails a little breather, pop on your next set feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to show off your gorgeous mani.

Healthy nails + cute nail strips = the ultimate power duo.

Ready to Treat Your Nails to Something New?

Once your nails are refreshed, hydrated, and feeling fabulous, it’s the perfect time to slip into a brand-new set that makes you smile. Whether you want bold sparkle, a clean neutral, or something seasonal and fun, I’ve got plenty of gorgeous options waiting for you. You can browse all the newest releases, classics, and nail-care must-haves right here: SHOP LINK Treat your nails kindly, give them a little love between sets, and they’ll reward you with stronger, healthier, prettier manis every time! Let’s keep those fingertips sparkling, friend. 💅✨

Until next time!
xoxo
Dawn

Click for ALL of my Links

5 Crafting Trivia Facts Every Creative Should Know

If you love crafting as much as you love a good “Did you know?” moment, you’re in the right place. Crafting isn’t just about glue sticks, paper cuts, and glitter showing up three weeks later - it has a rich, fascinating history packed with fun facts that every creative soul should know. Let’s test your crafty IQ and spill the answers too (because we’re helpful like that 😉).

1. Trivia Fact: Which craft is one of the oldest in human history?

Answer: Weaving

Weaving dates back over 12,000 years, making it one of the very first crafts humans ever mastered. Long before Pinterest boards and craft rooms, people were weaving fibers to create clothing, baskets, and shelter. Every time you tie ribbon, use twine, or add texture to a project, you’re basically honoring ancient crafters. Respect. 🧵

2. Trivia Fact: What common household item was originally invented for crafting?

Answer: Washi tape (paper tape)

Washi tape was originally created in Japan for arts and crafts, not decorating planners or hoarding in drawers (no judgment). Its lightweight paper design makes it easy to tear, reposition, and layer - basically crafting perfection in tape form. And yes, buying it “just in case” is completely justified.

3. Trivia Fact: What color is considered the easiest for the human eye to see?

Answer: Green

Green is the easiest color for our eyes to process, which is why it’s often used in design, crafting, and creative spaces. It’s calming, balanced, and easy on the eyes - perfect for backgrounds, accents, and craft rooms where creativity flows best. Science says so, and science doesn’t lie. 💚

4. Trivia Fact: Why do crafters say glitter is impossible to clean up?

Answer: Because it reflects light in every direction

Glitter is designed to reflect light from multiple angles, which makes even the tiniest speck impossible to miss. You might think you’ve cleaned it all … but glitter knows better. Once glitter enters your home, it becomes a long-term roommate. Sparkly. Persistent. Unapologetic. ✨

5. Trivia Fact: What crafting tool hasn’t changed much in over 4,000 years?

Answer: Scissors

That’s right—scissors have been around since ancient Egypt, and the basic design has stayed surprisingly consistent. Turns out, when something works perfectly, you don’t mess with it. Every snip today connects you to thousands of years of creative history. Kind of cool for something hiding in your supply drawer, huh?

Crafting isn’t just about making pretty things - it’s history, science, and a little bit of magic wrapped up in paper, ink, and sparkle. Whether you nailed all the answers or learned something new, consider this your official permission slip to craft with confidence …and maybe share a fun fact the next time someone asks why you own 37 pairs of scissors.

Thanks for hanging out with me! Now go create something fabulous (and probably glittery). 💜✨

Until next time!
xoxo
Dawn

Traditions Aren’t Polite Suggestions - They’re Roots

I know I usually write about crafting, creativity, and colorful nails around here, but lately I’ve had a few thoughts swirling around that needed somewhere to land. With the start of a new year, I’ve found myself doing a lot of reflecting - on how things have changed, what we’ve gained, and what we may be quietly losing along the way. So today, I’m stepping a little outside my usual lane to share some thoughts that have been sitting with me, because sometimes reflection is just as important as creativity.

I was born in 1964 - right on that blurry line between Baby Boomers and Generation X. Technically? I could be placed in either group, depending on who you ask. But in real life? I relate far more to Generation X.

I grew up independent, adaptable, and resourceful - figuring things out as I went. I learned to adjust to massive changes in technology, culture, and the economy without expecting the world to slow down for me. I value hard work, common sense, and yes … manners.

What shaped that mindset wasn’t theory - it was life. I was pregnant at 17 and gave birth to my son just one month before my 18th birthday. He was born with a rare neurological condition, Sturge-Weber Syndrome, which brought seizures, developmental delays, and later glaucoma into our lives. I learned very quickly what responsibility, resilience, and perseverance really meant. I had my second baby at 20, and by 23, I was divorced and raising two children on my own. There was no time to wait for the world to be gentle or convenient - I adapted because I had to. Those years didn’t just teach me how to survive change; they taught me the importance of showing up, respecting others, and holding onto values that keep you grounded when life gets hard.

I remember life before the internet, but (although hesitantly) I embraced it when it arrived.
I respect tradition, but I’m not afraid of change.
I don’t need everything to stay the same - I just believe some things should still matter.

So while my birth year may sit on the cusp, my mindset lives squarely in Generation X. And honestly? That blend of resilience, independence, and grounded values feels like the best of both worlds. 💜

I recently came across a quote that stopped me mid-scroll:

“Traditions are not polite suggestions - they’re roots.”

And the longer I sat with it, the more I realized just how much those roots are being yanked out these days and led me to write about all of these thoughts.

Somewhere along the way, traditions stopped being seen as meaningful… and started being treated like optional extras. Like something you can opt out of because they feel inconvenient, outdated, or “not really our thing.”

Apparently now, traditions are “meant to change.” Or worse - “meant to be broken.”

Hard disagree.

When Did Common Courtesy Become Optional?

Let’s talk etiquette - because wow, has that ship sailed.

There was a time when:

• You said thank you without being reminded

• You didn’t leave someone’s house without saying goodbye

• Kids hugged grandparents, waved, or at the very least acknowledged the room

• If someone texted you a question, you responded - not three days later

• Invitations came with RSVPs (and yes, people actually answered them)

Now?

• Kids run out the door like they’re escaping a crime scene

• Messages sit unread while the sender waits for an answer

• “I forgot” has become an acceptable response

• Silence somehow counts as a reply

And if you dare to notice any of this? You’re told you’re being “too sensitive” or “old-school.”

Busy Isn’t a Personality Trait

The most common excuse I hear is, “Everyone is just so busy and stressed.”

Listen - I believe people are busy. Life is full.
But being busy doesn’t mean being oblivious.

A quick “thanks.”
A simple goodbye.
A two-second response that says, “I got this, I’ll answer soon.”

Those aren’t time-consuming. They’re basic human decency. Being stressed doesn’t cancel out manners.

Traditions Weren’t the Problem

Here’s the part that really gets me.

Older generations aren’t refusing to change - they’re refusing to pretend that respect no longer matters. Traditions weren’t about control or rigidity. They were about teaching values:

• Respect for elders

• Appreciation for effort

• Presence in the moment

• Accountability

Today, many parents have decided etiquette isn’t important - or worse, that expecting it is “too much.” Kids aren’t taught to acknowledge adults, say thank you, or follow basic social courtesies because we don’t want to make them uncomfortable.

But here’s the truth:
Discomfort is how values are learned.

We’re Not Raising Independent - We’re Raising Unaware

When we stop teaching traditions and etiquette, we don’t raise free-er kids - we raise disconnected ones. Kids don’t magically learn gratitude. They don’t intuitively understand respect. They learn it by watching and being guided.

Traditions were the framework that taught those lessons. And when we throw them out entirely, we shouldn’t be shocked when the results look … messy.

Roots Don’t Hold You Back - They Hold You Accountable

Roots don’t stop growth. They keep it upright. They remind us that relationships matter, words matter, and how we show up matters.

You don’t have to keep every tradition exactly the same - but discarding them altogether is how we lose the things that once held families and communities together.

A Not-So-Gentle Reminder

Maybe it’s time we stop pretending this is just “the way things are now.” Maybe it’s time we start asking:

• Are we modeling gratitude?

• Are we teaching kids to acknowledge people?

• Are we confusing convenience with progress?

• Are we expecting older generations to change - while excusing younger ones from learning?

Because traditions aren’t about the past. They’re about the foundation. And etiquette isn’t old-fashioned - it’s timeless. And honestly? The world doesn’t need less tradition and manners. It needs a whole lot more of them - served with intention and a little backbone. 💥💜

And let’s get one thing straight. Being told that we “can’t adjust to change” is laughable.

Generation X has adapted to more change than just about any generation alive.

We didn’t just witness change - we survived it!

We lived through political upheaval, shifting family structures, and the normalization of dual-income households.
We weathered recessions in the 70s, 80s, and 90s - and then got slammed again by the Great Recession.
We watched college costs explode and debt become a way of life.

Technologically? Please.

We went from:

• Vinyl, 8-tracks, and cassettes → CDs → MP3s → streaming

• Manual Typewriters → electric typewriters → personal computers

• Wall phones, pay phones → Pagers → smartphones

• A handful of TV channels → endless on-demand content

• The birth of the internet → dial-up → broadband → social media → everything online, all the time

We adapted to corporate restructuring, job instability, and the constant expectation to do more with less - all while being told to somehow maintain “work-life balance.”

So no - this isn’t about resisting change. It’s about refusing to mistake progress for the erosion of respect.

We’re not holding onto traditions because we’re stuck in the past. We’re holding onto them because we know what happens when everything meaningful becomes optional.

We’ve changed.
We’ve evolved.
We’ve adjusted.

We just refuse to believe that evolution requires abandoning gratitude, manners, and human connection. That’s not outdated. That’s grounded.

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read my thoughts. Whether you found yourself nodding in agreement, quietly reflecting, or even raising an eyebrow or two, I truly appreciate you being here. Conversations like this don’t have to be loud to be meaningful - they just have to be honest. If this post sparked a thought, a memory, or a different perspective, I’d love to hear it. Respectful feedback and real conversation are always welcome around here. 💜✨

Until next time!

xoxo
Dawn

ALL of my Links