Add A Nail Strengthener To Your Routine
Prescription topical agents, such as Nuvail and Genadur, can help to strengthen weakened nails. While OTC nail hardeners can do the trick in the short-term, prescription strengtheners are the best choice for long-term use, since they contain chemicals that both increase the strength of the nail and trap moisture in to prevent future brittleness. Consistent and dedicated use of the nail hardeners is key for successful results, says Dr. Allawh.
Drugstore Mascaras That Never Flake
No one likes a flake. And while you can forgive your best friend who keeps ditching you to rewatch the Office, a flaky mascara is completely unacceptable. Theres nothing worse than perfectly applying your mascara only to find it rimming your eyes or all over your cheeks a few hours later. Not only it is a pain, its completely avoidable with the right p…
Check In With Your Doctor
“Vitamins and minerals are super critical to developing healthy nails,” says Dr. Kim. “In this busy world, it can be challenging to eat the right combination of foods each day. Thus, I highly recommend finding the right oral supplements to ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you need each day.” Your doctor can help you pinpoint if you have any deficiencies by discussing your diet and running blood tests.
While not every health expert sees eye to eye on the potential of collagen supplements for nail growth, Dr. Kim sees promise. Her reasoning: “To have healthy nails, you need to ensure that you have the building blocks necessary to develop healthy nails,” she says. “Numerous scientific studies recommend oral ingestion of bioactive collagen peptides.” Here’s an example of one small study where oral collagen peptide supplements such as the ones below seemed to affect nail growth rate and brittleness.
A doctor can also help rule out other potential issues that can cause brittle nails such as a thyroid issue, says Dr. Kim. Depending on your situation, they might suggest trying an Rx treatment. “There are several prescription interventions that have scientific studies demonstrating efficacy for nails such as topical application of Tazorac or Genadur,” says Dr. Kim.
Recommended Reading: How To Remove Contact Lenses With Nails
Cut Back On Gel And Acrylic Manicures
They may be touted as an easy alternative for people who have trouble growing their nails, but frequent gel or acrylic manicures can cause your nails to peel, weakening them in the process. These manicures also expose your digits to excessive amounts of acetone in the soak required to remove them, which is very drying to the nail, says Dr. Klein. If you prefer to keep these types of manicures on rotation, make sure to either give your nails time to breathe between applications or save them for special occasions.
Perfect Skin Serums And Everything You Need To Know A
Its no secret that serums are having a moment. Scroll through any skincare Insta-feed, blog or product junkies medicine cabinet, and youre sure to see the latest must-have skin serum popping up right between the cleanser and moisturizer. But what exactly is all the hype aboutand should you start to incorporate serums into your skin care regimen? To get the skinny, we reached out to Der…
You May Like: Does Hongo Killer Nail Formula Work
What Causes Damaged Nails
Everything from nail-biting to a lack of iron can affect the health of your nails. In truth, there are many reasons why we suffer from peeled, cracked, or pitted fingernails. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Fake/acrylic nails
- Allergic reactions
- Work environment
While some causes are more apparent, others can be harder to pinpoint. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you choose to go the supplement route or suspect an underlying issue.
Ditch Nail Polish Removers That Contain Acetone
A nail polish remover loaded with acetone is harsh on weak nails and can dry them out something fierce. This can cause peeling, splitting, and those unsightly white, mottled marks, says Dr. Solomon.
Her rec? Tenoverten Non-Acetone Polish Remover. Its essential oil-based, removes polish in a matter of seconds, and feels very gentle on nails and cuticles, she says.
You May Like: How To Remove Contact Lenses With Nails
Brittle Nails: Causes And Tips To Strengthen
2 Minute Read
If your nails split, peel, or are simply weak, you have brittle nails.
Brittle nails occur for a variety of reasons. They may be a normal sign of aging or the result of polishing your nails too frequently. When the weather is cold, brittle nails may result from dryness. Weak nails also can be signs of a health issue, such as hypothyroidism or anemia.
Before you assume the worst or head to the doctor, learn how to strengthen brittle nails and the reasons why you might be experiencing them.
Choose Nail Tips Over Full Extensions
All our experts told WebMD that, in general, nail extensions are bad news for nails, frequently leading to fungal or even bacterial infections — and, says Stern, sometimes to permanent damage. If you must wear nail extensions, she says, opt for just tips. While they can still cause problems, the potential for damage is less since the surface area covered is smaller.
Don’t Miss: Nails At Dollar General
Add Biotin To Your Diet
Biotin, also known as vitamin H or B7, is essential for the metabolism of proteins. As a water-soluble vitamin, it’s not stored in our bodies, and if your diet doesn’t contain enough biotin, you may notice your nails becoming brittle. Biotin can help improve nail strength, thickness, and firmness.
Biotin can be found in legumes, sardines, and cooked eggs. You can also take biotin supplements, but be sure to ask your healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your diet.
How To Strengthen Weak Nails
Rachael Grant
In an ideal world, wed all have naturally strong nails that require minimal maintenance, the truth is, not everyone knows how to care for them. The easiest way to fix thin nails is to treat them with gentle, nourishing products and leave them alone once in a while. If this attitude is easier said than done, it can be helpful to understand why your nails dont like certain behaviours and how to get the maximum from a beautiful manicure. It is time for some basic nail education on how to strengthen weak nails!
View this post on Instagram
Also Check: How Much Money Do Nail Techs Make A Year
Make A Diy Cuticle Oil
Hemp oil contains magnesium and vitamin E, both of which can help strengthen your nails and keep your cuticles soft.
Massage a few drops of hemp oil into your nails and cuticles or create your own DIY cuticle oil: Blend one tablespoon each of hemp oil, jojoba oil, and apricot kernel oil with a quarter teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
Push Your Cuticles Back
As mentioned, cuticle care is crucial. But beyond oil, Lim mentions regularly pushing your cuticles back can keep them from overgrowing. “When becomes thick and overgrows onto the nail, it’s tough to push back. You don’t want to ever get to that point,” she says. “When that happens, your cuticles are prone to cracking and infection.” Ouch.
You don’t have to get too meticulous about it a great tip is to gently push them back every couple of days after stepping out of the shower, as the nails will be softened from the spray. Not to mention, pushing your cuticles back helps your polish last longerjust in case you’ve decided to go for an at-home mani.
Recommended Reading: Liquid Nails Caulk Gun
Going Short Can Strengthen Nails
“Whether you realize it or not, when you have long nails you’re constantly hitting them on your keyboard, the door, you name it. People underestimate how much of an impact this has,” says Tuttle.
Keep your nails short and give them a chance to grow out stronger and healthier than before. The other upshot: Nails that aren’t in great shape look healthier when they’re shorter, adds Holford.
Bannon adds that giving yourself a mini “manicure” even if it’s just as simple as filing your nails every two to four days can prevent breakage and snags. If your nails are really in need of some T.L.C., repeat these manis for two to four weeks to see results and stronger nails.
RELATED: The 10 Best Nail Art Ideas for Short Nails
Stay Away From Drying Products
This is a catch 22, because keeping your hands clean is just as important as keeping them healthy. A lot of people use hand sanitizer to clean their hands when there isnt a sink available. Sanitizers usually contain high amounts of alcohol, which dry your hands out in the process. If you are going to use a product like this, try to grab one that also contains aloe vera or some other moisturizing agents.
Read Also: How Do You Remove Impress Nails
Take Breathers Between Manicures
Bottom line: Your nails need to breathe. Constant use of polish, even non-toxic polish, can weaken the nail, says Dr. Solomon. If you find that your nails have become especially fragile , give them a month off from nail polish to allow them to grow and strengthen. Applying a keratin treatment between manicures, such as CND RescueRXx, can help nourish your nails during the hiatus.
How To Tell If You Have Strong Nails
In most cases, you can tell if your nails aren’t quite up to snuff simply by looking at them. “Youll know if your nails are not as healthy and strong as they need to be if they fray at the end, break, peel, or just fail to increase in length,” says Dr. Nazarian. In other words, if you can’t pick up a dumbbell without losing a tip, it’s probably a sign that your nails need a little TLC.
Also Check: Take Out Contacts With Long Nails
A Dozen Tips For More Beautiful Nails
Long, strong, healthy nails are possible — if you don’t fall prey to myths and old wives tales! Three experts tell you what you need to know.
Like a great new haircut or a terrific skin care regimen, healthy, well-manicured nails are an integral part of a neat, pulled-together appearance – one that can work as an asset in both the social and the business world.
Unfortunately, experts say both men and women fall prey to myths and old wives’ tales about how to care for nails. Another pitfall: many of us rely on the guidance of salons, some of which may not be doling out the best advice — or treatments.
To help set the record straight — and get you on the road to beautiful nails — three top dermatologists offer these 12 tips for achieving healthy, well groomed, elegant nails.
How To Strengthen Weak Nails: Stronger And Thicker
Brittle nails can be a problem they are unaesthetic but can also signify a hidden lack of vitamins or nutrients. By paying attention to the condition of your nails, you can get insights into your overall health. However, most thin nail problems are easy to fix. But the results are not quick and may need your persistence. Here is what you can do to strengthen nails visibly:
View this post on Instagram
You May Like: How To Remove Contact Lenses With Nails
Whats The Difference Between Nail Polish And Nail Gel
Before 2012, you could only get a gel polish manicure done at a salon. This was because to set the gel, you needed access to an LED nail lamp. However, gel polish eventually became available in home formats and LED lights were soon sold to the public. People love using nail gel because it doesnt chip as easily as nail polish does.
Better yet, once the gel polish has been set, it cannot be nicked. Nail polish, on the other hand, chips easily and can take a long time to dry. The majority of our picks fall under the nail polish umbrella. However, is somewhat of a hybrid. In other words, it gives off the gel look and feel without needing to be set with an LED light.
Even then, nail polishes are the preferred method due to their easy removal. A few cotton balls and a nail polish remover is all you need. Sadly, the same cannot be said about most gel polishes. To remove gel polish you need to soak your fingernails in remover for a few minutes which can seriously dry out your natural nail. Luckily, Pink Armor Nail Gel can be removed with regular nail polish remover!
Use Gloves Whenever Needed
Excessive hand washing can be damaging to your nails as constant exposure to soapy or hot water can soften your nails, making them brittle and weak. In addition, constant contact with water can cause nail splitting, which may lead to a condition known as onychoschizia.
Similarly, nails exposed to the dry winter weather often become brittle. This happens especially when temperature fluctuations occur while moving indoors to outdoors or vice versa. Your nails expand and contract periodically according to the temperature they are in. These repetitive changes can weaken the cells, making the nails prone to breakage.
Therefore, wear gloves to protect your nails from water- or weather-caused damage. Use cotton-lined rubber gloves while working with water, such as during gardening, doing the dishes, or housecleaning. Wearing gloves also prevents dirt from getting into your nails, preventing infections.
Additionally, make sure to wipe your nails dry after swimming or showering to keep them dry and prevent bacterial growth.
Also Check: How Much Does Nail School Cost
Home Remedy Nr 3 Horsetail
Add one teaspoon of dried horsetail stemsin two cups of boiling water. Steep it for about 10 minutes and finally drinkit as a herbal tea to cure brittle nails and enhance nail growth. If you dontlike the taste, add some honey. Soaking your nails in this mixture can alsohelp you to grow long and strong nails.
Try A Targeted Supplement
Hair, skin, and nail supplements aren’t breaking news , but if you choose the right formula, these types of supplements can help strengthen your nails. And you can only imagine my satisfaction when I realized Hanna and I have the same favorite.
“As far as supplements go, I’m obsessed with Killer Nails from Hum Nutrition,” she shares. “I noticed a significant difference in just a few weeks of using it.” Um, same.
You May Like: How To Use Essie Gel Nail Polish
Protect Your Nails From Chemical And Uv Exposure
In case you didn’t know: Your nails can experience sun damage, too, turning them yellow, brittle, or dimpled. To protect your tips, experts recommend a UV filter polish that’s able to absorb the rays .
On the chemical front, it’s important to be mindful of any harsh ingredients seeping into your nails. You might have swapped your acetone polish remover, sure, but think about other ways your nails are exposed to chemicals on the daily. For example, if you have traditional dish soap in your kitchen, perhaps wear gloves while cleaning to avoid drying out the nails. “It might be a small step, but over time you’ll notice the difference in your health and the appearance of your nails,” says Lin.
The Best Nail Growth Treatments And Strengtheners
The world might be starting to reopen, but our nails on the other hand, are still in hibernation mode. To get them nail-art-ready, invest in a nail treatment that’s designed to promote growth and strengthen, so you’re ready for your full diary of social obligations.
We tested some of the best available, to see which ones really deliver results. Below are the ones we rate.
How we test
We asked over 1,000 women to trial over 42 brands of nail growth treatments and strengtheners for a one-month period the products ranged from oils to polishes to creams.
For nail growth products, testers assessed whether they prevented breakages and peeling, if they helped with growth, and if nails were left looking healthier and stronger.
For strengthening treatments, testers noted whether the products helped with any flakiness, as well as if they had an impact on smoothness and strength.
Both types of product were also judged on how easy they were to apply, their drying time and how often they needed to reapply.
Recommended Reading: Proclearz Para Que Sirve
What If My Nails Get Worse
The last thing anyone wants is for their already damaged nails to take a turn for the worst. So, taking the time to select the best nail strengthener for your individual needs is key. If your nails are severely damaged, using a nail hardener with formaldehyde is something you should be wary of as it may cause a burning sensation to ensue. However, this is extremely rare.
Chances are, most nail products will cause discomfort when applied onto cracked or infected fingernails. For this reason, its important to improve the health of your nails via a natural nail hydrator like before applying a nail hardener.
To be safe, apply the product of your choice to a small portion of your nail and allow it to dry before tackling the rest. Should you experience discomfort at any point, or should your nails get worse over time, contact your dermatologist.
Upgrade Your Nail Polish Remover
When your manicure shows signs of chipping, it’s all too easy to pick up any old bottle of nail polish remover. But those containing high concentrations of acetone is extremely harsh on fragile nails and can dry them out almost instantly cue peeling, flaking and splitting.
Your best bet? Go acetone-free. These formulas might be gentler, but don’t underestimate their ability to leave your nails perfectly clean even after a jet-black mani. There are heaps of gentle yet effective formulas out there with the muscle to whip off remnants of polish in moments.
You May Like: How To Get Dried Nail Polish Out Of Clothes
