Ava Monroe
There are many ways to grow your nails longer and stronger. Some people opt for artificial nails, such as acrylics, gels, or fiberglass wraps, which can be applied at a salon. Others prefer to focus on their nutrition, as eating foods rich in vitamins A, E, and D, as well as protein, iron, and healthy fats, can support nail growth and strength. Additionally, you can try using cuticle oil, nail hardeners, or moisturizing your hands regularly to improve nail health and encourage growth.
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What You'll Learn
Consume vitamins and supplements
Consuming vitamins and supplements can be a great way to improve nail health and promote growth. While supplements can be helpful, it is always best to consult a doctor or healthcare provider before taking any new supplement, and it is recommended to address potential deficiencies through diet first.
Biotin is a classic supplement for nail health and is essential for the production of keratin, the protein that makes up nails. A biotin deficiency may lead to brittle, weak nails. Foods rich in biotin include meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and beans. Vitamin B12 is another important vitamin for nail health, as it plays a role in iron absorption and red blood cell development. A B12 deficiency can cause blue or brownish nail pigmentation. B12 is mainly found in animal foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy.
Vitamin C is also good for nail health as it is needed for collagen production, which helps strengthen nails. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin C for nail health is 90mg for males and 75mg for females, with an additional 35mg if you are a smoker. Plant-based foods rich in vitamin C include red and green bell peppers, oranges, grapefruit juice, kiwi, and broccoli.
Other important vitamins and minerals for nail health include folate (or vitamin B9), vitamin E, zinc, and iron. Folate contributes to red blood cell formation and new cell development, and a deficiency can cause nail discolouration and ridges. Vitamin E helps with moisture retention, preventing nails from becoming dry and brittle. The recommended daily amount of vitamin E for women 14 and older is 15mg. Zinc helps with healthy cell growth and replication, and a deficiency can cause issues with the nail bed and white spots on the nails. Iron is essential for transporting oxygen to the nail matrix and promoting growth, and an iron deficiency can cause brittle or concave-shaped nails, as well as vertical ridges.
In addition to supplements, a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods is the best way to improve and maintain nail health.
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Use nail treatments
Using nail treatments is an effective way to promote nail growth and strengthen your nails. Here are some treatments to consider:
Cuticle Oil
Cuticle oil is highly recommended by manicurists and dermatologists as a treatment for growing longer nails. It nourishes the eponychium (the living tissue) and the nail bed (the flesh underneath your nail plate), acting as a glue that holds together the layers within the nail. This helps keep nails flexible and protects them from everyday wear and tear. Some popular cuticle oils include Dr. Dana's Nourishing Cuticle Oil, which contains jojoba oil and indigo naturalis, and the Cuccio Cuticle Oil.
Nail Hardeners
Nail hardeners are substances painted onto nails like polish and later removed with nail polish remover. They are useful for strengthening nails and preventing breakage in the short term. However, prolonged use of nail hardeners can make nails weaker and more prone to breakage.
Vitamin Supplements
Taking certain vitamin supplements can help support nail growth and strengthen nails. Biotin, a type of B vitamin, is highly recommended as it helps boost nail strength. Studies suggest that taking a daily biotin supplement of around 2.5 milligrams can improve nail strength within a few weeks. Additionally, addressing vitamin D deficiencies through supplements can improve nail health, as low vitamin D levels can lead to brittle nails.
Hand Cream or Cuticle Balm
Frequently applying hand cream or cuticle balm to your nails and the surrounding skin can help promote nail growth. This keeps the nails and cuticles moisturized, reducing dryness and the urge to pick at the skin, which can hinder nail growth.
Medical Treatments
In some cases, weak or brittle nails can be an early warning sign of underlying health problems, such as nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, or other medical conditions. If home remedies and nail treatments are ineffective, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can recommend treatments for any underlying conditions affecting nail growth and provide guidance on specific dietary changes or supplements to strengthen your nails.
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Try nail extensions
If you want longer nails, you could try nail extensions. There are several types of extensions to choose from, including acrylics, gels, and wraps. Acrylics are known for their durability, but they can have a strong chemical smell and may not look as natural as other options. Gels are more flexible and are considered a healthier alternative to acrylics, as they don't contain harsh chemicals. They can be used to extend the nails, but they may not be suitable for those who are hard on their nails. Wraps are a good option for those with short nails who want to add a little extra strength. They can be applied to all nails or just to patch up a tear in one nail. However, the glue used for wraps is water-soluble, so they may not be the best choice for those who spend a lot of time in water or cook frequently.
If you're considering gel nail extensions, the process typically involves painting hard gel over the natural nail and curing it with UV light. A nail form, or a sticker, is then placed under the free edge of the nail to extend its length. There is also a newer method that uses an already shaped full soft gel nail tip that is secured to the natural nail with gel. These come in various sizes and shapes, such as stiletto, round, coffin, and square.
It's important to note that gel extensions should be professionally removed to ensure safe removal without damaging your natural nails. While they can last for several weeks, both gel and acrylic extensions can potentially damage your natural nails. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the proper care required for these extensions before committing to them.
If you're interested in doing nail extensions at home, there are a few options to consider. Some people have had success with UV glue and fake nail sets, which are affordable and easy to apply. Others have recommended using polygel with forms or gel tips to create nail extensions. Builder in a bottle is another option for those seeking stronger natural nails. Keep in mind that any extension building comes with a learning curve, and you'll need to be careful to avoid getting the product on your skin.
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Improve nail care routine
Improving your nail care routine can help you achieve longer and healthier nails. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Nutrition
Eating a nutritious diet is essential for maintaining healthy nails. Include foods rich in vitamins A, E, and D, as well as protein, iron, and healthy fats. These nutrients support nail growth and strength. Consider taking biotin supplements, which have been shown to improve nail health significantly.
Moisturise
Regularly moisturising your hands and nails helps maintain hydration and protects your nails from environmental stressors. Use a nourishing and hydrating hand cream or lotion and massage it into your nails and cuticles. This will keep your skin supple and soft while promoting nail growth.
Cuticle Care
Taking care of your cuticles is crucial. Apply cuticle oil to keep your nails flexible and strong. Cuticle oils with ingredients like jojoba oil and vitamin E can nourish and strengthen your nails and the surrounding skin.
Filing Technique
When filing your nails, always file in one direction. Avoid filing back and forth, as this can create tiny tears that lead to breakage. Use a glass nail file to gently shape your nails and prevent further damage.
Protection
Apply a strengthening top coat to your nails to add an extra layer of protection. This will help reinforce your nails and prevent them from breaking or chipping. You can also use nail hardeners, but be cautious as they can sometimes make your nails too hard.
Limit Nail Polish and Remover
Frequent use of nail polish and nail polish remover can dry out your nails and disrupt their natural growth. Limit their use and always remove nail polish with an acetone-free remover to minimise potential damage.
Exercise
Believe it or not, regular exercise can also promote nail growth. Aim for at least 30 minutes of daily exercise or 150 minutes per week to keep your body and nails healthy.
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Avoid damaging behaviours
To achieve longer nails, it is important to avoid behaviours that can damage your nails and hinder their growth. Here are some tips to avoid such damaging behaviours:
Be mindful of your hands and nails when going about your daily activities. Adjust your habits to reduce the impact on your nails. For example, use your knuckles instead of your nails when performing tasks such as opening cans, flicking light switches, or unbuckling seat belts. Keep your nails out of harm's way when reaching into purses, bags, or drawers, as they can accidentally get scratched or broken.
Avoid nail-biting and picking at your nails. Nail-biting can cause your nails to become shorter and uneven, and it can also transfer bacteria from your mouth to your nails, leading to possible infections. If you struggle with nail-biting, consider using nail polish with a bitter taste or applying a clear, bitter-tasting coating to deter biting. Picking at your nails can lead to peeling and further damage. Instead, trim your nails with clippers when you notice any peeling, and consider using a glass nail file for gentle shaping.
Limit the use of harsh nail polishes and nail polish removers. Some nail polishes and removers can contain chemicals that can dry out your nails and make them more prone to breakage. Choose nail polishes that are gentle and nourishing, and always use an acetone-free polish remover to minimize nail damage. Additionally, give your nails a break from polish now and then to allow them to breathe and recover.
Be cautious when using artificial nail enhancements such as acrylics, gels, or wraps. While these options can provide the appearance of longer nails, they may not always improve the health of your natural nails. After removing these enhancements, your nails may feel thinner and more brittle due to the filing and chemical processes involved. If you choose to use nail enhancements, ensure you take proper precautions and give your nails breaks in between applications to allow them to recover.
Avoid using your nails for tasks that can damage them, such as opening cans or packages. Use tools like a bottle opener or a pair of scissors instead. Also, be cautious when washing dishes or handling strong chemicals, as prolonged exposure to water and harsh substances can weaken your nails. Wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when performing such tasks to protect your nails and keep them healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to grow longer nails, including:
- Eating a nutritious diet rich in vitamins A, E, and D, as well as protein, iron, and healthy fats.
- Taking biotin supplements.
- Using nail lacquers or nail hardeners.
- Maintaining a consistent skincare routine and keeping your nails and cuticles moisturised.
- Using acrylic nails, gel nails, or fiberglass wraps to add length and protect your natural nails.
Here are some tips to maintain the health and strength of your nails:
- Keep your nails moisturised and avoid using acetone-based nail polish removers, as they can dry out your nails.
- File your nails regularly to maintain their shape and prevent splintering.
- Avoid biting your nails and use bitter-tasting polish or stickers as a deterrent if you need to.
- Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning with strong chemicals to protect your nails from damage.
Yes, there are natural ways to promote nail growth and strength:
- Eat a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocado, eggs, lean meat, whole grains, and sweet potatoes.
- Incorporate foods that encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as kefir, miso, live yoghurt, and kimchi.
- Stay hydrated and minimise alcohol consumption and refined sugar intake.
- Use natural nail care products such as cuticle oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil to moisturise your nails and cuticles.
