Top tips for healthy nails they don't tell you at the salon from luxury podiatry and foot care brand founder Margaret Dabbs

We sat down with Margaret Dabbs, who founded her eponymous luxury podiatry and foot care brand - whose Nourishing Nail and Cuticle Serum Pen is featured in the limited edition Female Founders Edit -  to hear why she’s thrilled to be part of an empowering beauty box celebrating female talent…

What is the story behind Margaret Dabbs London?

I saw a gap in the market to launch cosmetic podiatry as a new category in beauty and wellness, with both treatments and effective yet luxurious foot products. Beauty products didn’t work and pharmaceutical formulations were unpleasant to use, so I set about sourcing ingredients from around the world and mixed formulas to use initially in my own clinic. We have since extended our range to include feet, hands, nails and legs.

What three words would you use to describe your brand?

Luxurious, innovative and effective.

What made you want to create the Nourishing Nail & Cuticle Serum Pen?

This was one of my original formulations and is a problem solver – a treatment remedy to treat, repair and promote healthy hands and feet. The pen application was designed for convenience and ease of use, allowing users to nourish and hydrate their nails and cuticles on the go. 

Why did you choose this particular product to go into the box?

It’s perfect for weak and dehydrated nails, especially those that are thin, ridged, or damaged. It’s also non-greasy and incredibly simple to apply. The pin-point dispenser guarantees exact precision, minimising wastage and ensuring an efficient application process.

What top tip would you give to your younger self?

Slow down and enjoy every day as it comes.

How will you be celebrating International Women’s Day this year?

This International Women’s Day I’ll be celebrating the incredible women who contribute to the heart and soul of Margaret Dabbs London. Our company is a powerhouse of talented, dedicated women, both at the head office and in our clinics. It’s inspiring to witness their commitment and hard work every day.

While I’ll spend the day much like any other, surrounded by these phenomenal women, I’ll take a moment to acknowledge and toast to our collective successes. A glass or two of champagne will certainly be in order.

Why was it important to you to be included in the Female Founders Edit? 

It represents a celebration of women’s entrepreneurial spirit and achievements in the beauty industry. This platform not only highlights the diversity of beauty products but also showcases the innovation, dedication and unique perspectives that female entrepreneurs bring to the table. By participating, I contribute to a narrative that recognises and supports the accomplishments of women in business, fostering empowerment and creating a more inclusive and inspiring beauty community. 

Who is your female role model?

Queen Elizabeth II –  her lifelong dedication to her country demonstrated resilience, commitment and a sense of duty unmatched. Her ability to adapt to changing times was also truly admirable.

What’s your top tip for healthy nails?

Have regular professional medical pedicures and manicures and follow up with our formulations, which help to deliver salon-quality results in your own home. It’s also important to exercise, try to stay fit and healthy, drink plenty of water, reduce the intake of alcohol and get lots of sleep, all of which will promote overall nail health. 

How can you slow down the signs of ageing on your hands?

Regular use of products like Margaret Dabbs London Repairing Hand Cream will target the signs of ageing and minimise moisture loss from the skin of the hands. Ensure hands are protected from sunlight and the use of an overnight hand mask and treatment gloves will make a huge difference at slowing the visible signs of ageing.

Find the Margaret Dabbs Nourishing Nail & Cuticle Serum Pen – plus nine other brilliant products, worth over £270 in total – in the Female Founders Edit for £60.

Want to read more about the Margaret Dabbs Nourishing Nail & Cuticle Serum Pen? Click here to see the full reveal >