Liam Carter
Having long, healthy nails can be challenging, especially when they are prone to cracking, chipping, and peeling. To make your nails harder, you can try a variety of methods, including using nail strengtheners and hardeners, although these should be used with caution as they can make your nails too hard and brittle. Instead, you can try natural methods such as applying cuticle oils, wearing gloves when washing up, and keeping your nails painted. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet with vitamins, minerals, calcium, and protein can help improve nail health, as well as staying hydrated and minimising the use of hand sanitizers.
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What You'll Learn
Keep nails short
Keeping your nails short is a good way to help strengthen them. Longer nails are more prone to breaking, so keeping them short will allow them time to build up strength.
It is important to know how to trim your nails correctly. Filing your nails in a back-and-forth motion can weaken them, so it is best to file them gently in one direction only. Be careful not to file the sides of your nails too much, as this can also weaken them.
If you are keeping your nails short to help them grow stronger and healthier, it is important to ensure you are getting enough nutrients to support this. Drinking enough water is essential for nail health, as without adequate moisture, nails can become brittle and break and peel easily. Staying hydrated helps your nails retain moisture and stay strong.
In addition to staying hydrated, eating a nutrient-dense and varied diet is important for nail health. A diet that is deficient in crucial vitamins and minerals can affect your nails. Protein and calcium promote nail health, as do biotin-rich foods such as vegetables, eggs, and nuts. You may also wish to consider taking a multivitamin with minerals or a biotin supplement, but be sure to check with a healthcare professional first.
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File nails correctly
Filing your nails is a great way to maintain their health and hygiene. However, it is important to know how to file nails correctly, as doing so can lead to tearing and breakage.
Firstly, it is important to choose the right nail file. There are several types of nail files available, including emery board files, sandpaper-like disposable files, and classic metal files. Emery board files are both affordable and effective, and are available in a range of grit levels, which refer to the overall roughness of the file's texture. For natural nails, it is recommended to use a file with a softer grit of around 180-240. Higher grit levels are more suitable for nails that are already broken or damaged. Metal files, while tempting, are not very gentle and can be difficult to control. Glass or crystal files are effective but inflexible and extremely rough, which can cause uneven filing or breakage.
Once you have chosen the right file, it is important to prepare your nails correctly. Always ensure your nails are clean and dry before filing. Filing wet nails can lead to breakage as the nail becomes softer and more prone to damage.
When filing, always start at the tip of the nail, holding the file perpendicular to the edge. File in one direction, using smooth strokes along the grain of your nail. Avoid using a sawing motion, as this can weaken your nails. File most shapes from the edges towards the centre, and for rounded or pointed shapes, start with the outside edges and work your way inwards.
Remember to be gentle and take your time when filing your nails. By following these steps, you can help keep your nails healthy and strong.
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Moisturise and seal nails
Moisturising your nails is a crucial step in achieving harder, healthier nails. Nails that break easily could be a sign of brittle nails, which are too hard, or weak nails, which are too soft. To combat this, it is important to moisturise your nails at least once a day.
There are many ways to moisturise your nails. Firstly, you can use a hand cream. This can be done every time you wash your hands, as water exposure can weaken the bonds of the nail's structure, making them more prone to breakage. You can also use oils, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or emu oil. Applying oil at least once a day, or even 2-3 times a day, will nourish your cuticles and help seal your nails.
Another way to moisturise and seal your nails is through a process called "nail slugging". This involves applying a thick, occlusive agent on top of your exfoliated, moisturised nail bed to seal in moisture and improve absorption. After applying your cream or oil, coat each nail in a thick layer of ointment, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor. You can even wear cotton gloves to bed to keep everything locked in.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the products you use on your nails. Some nail strengtheners and polish removers contain acetone and formaldehyde, which can dry out your nails and make them more brittle. Instead, opt for acetone-free polish removers and use nail polishes packed with vitamins and minerals, such as OPI Nail Envy and Sally Hansen Miracle Cure.
Finally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated are also key factors in moisturising and sealing your nails. Drinking enough water helps your nails retain moisture and stay strong. Eating a nutrient-dense and varied diet, rich in protein and healthy fats, can also contribute to nail health.
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Eat a nutrient-dense diet
Eating a nutrient-dense diet is essential for strengthening nails. This involves consuming a variety of whole foods that provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Here are some specific dietary tips to help you achieve harder and healthier nails:
Firstly, ensure you are consuming adequate protein. Protein is a fundamental building block for nail health. Include a variety of protein sources in your diet, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts. These foods will provide your body with the amino acids necessary for nail health.
In addition to protein, focus on incorporating foods rich in specific vitamins and minerals. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, plays a crucial role in nail strength. Biotin-rich foods include eggs, nuts, and vegetables. However, since biotin is water-soluble and not stored in the body, ensure you're consuming it daily. Other B vitamins are also important for overall nail health, so consider including whole grains, dark leafy greens, and citrus fruits in your diet.
Minerals such as calcium and iron are also essential for nail hardness. Dairy products, dark leafy greens, and calcium-fortified plant-based milk are excellent sources of calcium. For iron, incorporate lean red meats, poultry, lentils, beans, and dark leafy greens into your meals.
Finally, staying properly hydrated is vital for nail health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your nails retain moisture and stay strong. Dehydration can lead to brittle, weak nails that are prone to breakage. So, make sure you're meeting your daily water intake goals to support nail hardness and overall health.
Remember, a balanced and nutrient-dense diet is a key pillar of healthy nails. By incorporating a variety of whole foods and ensuring adequate hydration, you'll be well on your way to achieving the nail strength and hardness you desire.
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Take biotin supplements
Taking biotin supplements is one strategy you may consider to strengthen your nails. Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is one of the B vitamins. It is needed for your cells to function properly, helping them turn fat, glucose, and protein into energy. Biotin also plays a role in gene regulation and cell communication.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of biotin for nail growth, some studies suggest that it may be beneficial for individuals with low biotin levels or biotin deficiency. For example, a recent study from Switzerland showed a 25% increase in nail plate thickness in patients with brittle nails who took biotin supplements. Out of 35 patients who took daily biotin supplements, 22 (63%) showed clinical improvement.
It is important to note that biotin is water-soluble and not stored in the body, so it needs to be consumed daily. Most people get enough biotin through their diet, with sources including fish and seeds. However, if you are considering taking biotin supplements, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking medications or have a chronic condition.
Additionally, keep in mind that taking too much biotin can interfere with the accuracy of certain lab tests. Overall, while biotin supplements may help strengthen your nails, a well-rounded approach that includes a nutrient-dense diet, adequate hydration, and other lifestyle changes may be more effective in improving nail health.
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