Isla Bennett
There are several ways to grow your nails longer, faster. One way is to use acrylics, gels, and wraps to give the illusion of longer nails. Gels, for example, can be applied to give an even and glossy look. Another way is to use acetone to remove nail polish as it is less drying than regular nail polish remover. Additionally, trimming your nails with clippers rather than filing them can help prevent further damage and allow your nails to grow longer. Being mindful of your hand movements and adapting to doing certain tasks with your knuckles instead can also help your nails grow longer by reducing potential damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| File nails | Use a normal emery board with a grit of 180 or higher. Glass nail files are longer-lasting and easy to clean, but a soft file prevents tearing or splitting. |
| Nail products | Acrylics, gels, and fiberglass wraps are commonly used to create the appearance of longer nails. Gels are more difficult to remove than acrylics. Builder gel (BIAB) helps nails grow stronger and longer by adding a protective layer. |
| Nail care | Avoid picking or biting nails. Be mindful of how you use your hands to avoid breaking nails. |
| Vitamins | Prenatal vitamins or hair, skin, and nail vitamins may help nails grow longer. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a glass nail file to file your nails a bit every few days
Glass nail files, invented in 1997 in the Czech Republic, are made from tempered glass, which makes them both durable and long-lasting. They are gentler on nails than traditional emery boards, which can be quite harsh on natural nails, especially if they are thin. Glass nail files are also finer and more effective at shaping, and can be used in multiple directions without causing breakage. They are also more hygienic than traditional files as they are non-porous and can be easily sanitised with a simple rinse of warm water or an alcohol-based sanitiser.
To use a glass nail file to make your nails longer, start by ensuring your nails are clean and free of any polish or dirt. It is also important that your nails are completely dry as wet nails are more prone to tearing or peeling. If your nails are long, you may want to trim them with nail clippers first, but only cut them to slightly longer than your desired length.
Next, decide on the shape you want your nails to be, such as square, round, or almond. You can use the shape of your cuticles as a guide. Then, begin filing your nails from the outside edge towards the centre, moving in one direction. It is recommended to use the file back and forth for a rough shape and then in only one direction when finishing to keep the mesh of the nail keratin from fraying.
Using a glass nail file a bit every few days can help you achieve longer, stronger, and less brittle nails. They are a great tool to add to your manicure routine and can even be used to gently exfoliate the skin around your nails. Remember to disinfect your glass nail file with an alcohol wipe after each use for optimal cleanliness.
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Take prenatal vitamins or hair, skin and nail vitamins
Taking prenatal vitamins or hair, skin and nail vitamins can be an effective way to promote nail growth and improve the overall health of your nails.
Prenatal vitamins are designed to meet the nutritional needs of pregnant women, but they can also offer benefits for hair, skin, and nail health. These vitamins typically contain higher amounts of specific nutrients, including folic acid, iron, and calcium. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, plays a crucial role in healthy cell growth and is essential for the development of skin, hair, and nails. While folic acid is commonly associated with prenatal vitamins, it is also found in dark, leafy greens like spinach and natural folate sources like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, avocados, and black-eyed peas.
Additionally, prenatal vitamins often include biotin, a water-soluble vitamin that belongs to the B-complex family. Biotin is known to promote nail and hair growth and has been studied for its effectiveness in treating brittle nail syndrome. It is worth noting that some individuals have reported experiencing increased pimples or acne with biotin use, although the reason for this side effect is not yet fully understood.
If you are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant, simply adopting a well-rounded diet may provide you with sufficient biotin and folic acid. Foods like eggs, salmon, and sunflower seeds are excellent natural sources of biotin. However, if your diet is lacking or you are unable to meet your nutritional needs through food alone, taking prenatal vitamins or hair, skin, and nail vitamins can be a worthwhile option to support nail growth and overall nail health.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new vitamin or supplement regimen to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. Additionally, while prenatal vitamins can promote nail health, it is also crucial to protect your nails from external damage by being mindful of your daily activities and using appropriate tools, such as a nail brush, to maintain nail hygiene.
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Get builder gel (BIAB) to add a protective layer to your nails
If you want to add a protective layer to your nails, get builder gel (BIAB). This type of gel nail polish strengthens and lengthens nails while protecting them from further damage. It is a more durable and long-lasting option than regular gel nail polish, which typically only lasts for about two weeks and can weaken nails, making them brittle and flaky.
Builder gel is a thicker gel that requires more skill and experience for application. It is applied with small, horizontal strokes to ensure the polish goes across the entire nail, and it is built up to the desired thickness and shape in several coats, curing between each layer. The flexibility of builder gel means it is less likely to cause breakage and can help reinforce and protect weak or damaged nails, allowing them to grow out more securely.
If you are applying builder gel to natural nails, you can build up the gel to your desired thickness and shape. However, if you are extending your nails, you will need to apply nail tips or forms before applying the gel and creating the length.
The removal process for builder gel typically involves filing or soaking off the gel, which requires more time and effort and can make nails dry or brittle. It is important to note that if you have severely damaged nails, it is best to avoid builder gel until your nails have healed as applying gel to severely damaged nails can cause additional stress or infection.
Builder gel manicures can cost anywhere from $40 to $80 or more, depending on your location, the salon you visit, and the colour, design, and length you choose. While builder gel nails can be achieved at home, there is a learning curve to perfecting the technique.
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Use acrylic nails, gels, or fiberglass wraps
Acrylic nails, gels, and fiberglass wraps are all tried-and-true methods for achieving longer nails quickly. Each method has its own unique process and benefits.
Acrylic nails are a popular choice for nail extensions and can be particularly useful for those with oily nail beds, as gel does not adhere well to oily surfaces. The process involves applying acrylic powder to the nails, which can be left clear or coloured with glitter or dye. Acrylic nails typically last for about two weeks before requiring a refill.
Gels are another effective way to lengthen nails. Builder gels are commonly used to sculpt extensions, and they come in a variety of colours. These gels can be left as is or painted over with gel polish or regular lacquer. To remove gel nails, some types can be soaked off using acetone, while others, like hard gel, must be filed off. Gel nails require curing with an LED/UV lamp.
Fiberglass nails are a less common method for adding temporary length to nails. This technique involves using a thin, cloth-like material that is secured to the nail with resin glue. The fabric is then shaped using an emery board or nail drill, and a final layer of acrylic powder or gel nail polish is applied. While fiberglass nails provide a very natural look, they are more delicate and may chip or lift sooner than other options.
All three methods are safe when done correctly and can help you achieve the desired nail length and appearance. However, it is important to properly remove these nail enhancements to avoid damaging your natural nails.
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Be mindful of what you're doing with your hands
Growing your nails can be a tricky business, especially when you're trying to speed up the process. One of the most important things to be mindful of is your day-to-day activities and how they might impact your nails.
A key step is to be aware of what you're doing with your hands. It sounds simple, but it's easy to forget and accidentally damage your nails. For example, when reaching into a purse or bag, be careful not to bend or snap your nails against any hard surfaces or objects. The same goes for drawers, car doors, and even when buckling and unbuckling your seatbelt. Using your knuckles instead of your fingertips can help protect your nails from potential damage.
Household chores and cleaning products can also be harmful to your nails. Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can weaken and dry out your nails, so it's a good idea to wear rubber gloves when cleaning or doing the dishes to protect your hands and nails. This is especially important if you're using products that contain dehydrating chemicals or fragrances, as these can easily penetrate and damage your nails.
Hand sanitizers and certain shampoos can also have a similar effect. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can dry out your nails, leading to brittleness. Try to avoid getting sanitizer on your nails, and if you use a shampoo that is drying or meant for oily hair, consider switching to a different type for a couple of weeks to see if it makes a difference.
In addition to being mindful of your daily activities, it's also important to keep your nails moisturized. Cuticle creams or oils can help with this, and it's recommended to apply them at least once per day, massaging them into the base of the nail. Look for products containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which attract moisture, along with occlusive ingredients like shea butter.
Finally, consider taking a break from manicures, especially those that involve gels, acrylics, or dips. While these may make your nails feel stronger initially, the consistent pressure on the nail matrix can cause the nail to grow out thinner over time. The harsh removal process, which often involves a long soak in acetone, can also weaken the nail.
By being mindful of your daily activities and their potential impact on your nails, you can help speed up the process of growing your nails and keep them strong and healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no scientifically proven method for making nails grow faster. However, taking good care of your body through proper nutrition and the following tips to strengthen your nails can help them grow strong and long over time:
- Eat a well-balanced diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean sources of protein, an adequate amount of carbohydrates, and plenty of healthy fats.
- Take a biotin supplement daily to help strengthen nails.
- Avoid nail biting and cutting your nails too short.
Here are some tips to take care of your nails and help them grow:
- Use cuticle oil on your nails at least once a day. Jojoba-based cuticle oil is recommended as its molecules can penetrate the nail plate and be absorbed easily.
- Apply clear gel before nail polish to prevent staining.
- Be mindful of what you do with your hands, especially when reaching into a purse, bag, or drawer, as this can cause breakage.
Yes, there are some home remedies that may help nails grow. For example, you can try taking prenatal vitamins or a quality hair, skin, and nails vitamin. You can also apply a thicker oil like coconut oil or olive oil to your nails.
