Caleb Foster
There are many ways to grow your nails and make them stronger. One of the most important things to note is to treat your nails with care. Using a glass nail file instead of clippers and applying cuticle oil regularly can help strengthen nails. Additionally, water is the worst chemical for your nails, so it is recommended to wear gloves when cleaning or doing the dishes. Maintaining a nutritious diet that includes vitamins and folic acid can also help improve nail growth and strength.
How to grow your nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail care | Use nail/cuticle oil regularly, especially jojoba-based oil |
| Use a glass nail file instead of clippers | |
| Try not to use your nails to open things | |
| Wear gloves when cleaning, doing the dishes, or showering to avoid water exposure | |
| Use a nail strengthener | |
| File your nails a bit every few days | |
| Keep your body hydrated by drinking enough water | |
| Take vitamins and supplements, such as prenatal vitamins, hair vitamins, or folic acid (Vitamin B9) | |
| Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet with adequate protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources, carbohydrates, and healthy fats | |
| Avoid nail biting and cutting your nails too short |
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What You'll Learn
Consume vitamins and nutrients
Consuming vitamins and nutrients is essential for healthy nails. The food we eat has a massive impact on our health and overall well-being, and this includes the health of our nails. Dry, cracked, and brittle nails can indicate a lack of nutrients, while strong, shiny nails can point to a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that hydrates and regenerates growth in nails that are thin and brittle. It is found in orange foods like cantaloupe, carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash, as well as broccoli, liver, and tuna. Vitamin A is also known to be good for the skin.
Vitamin C is another essential nutrient that our bodies cannot produce. It is crucial for the production of collagen, which gives shape and strength to many tissues, including fingernails, hair, and teeth. Citrus fruits like oranges, strawberries, and kiwis are excellent sources of vitamin C, but bell peppers, green vegetables, and tomatoes contain even higher levels of this nutrient.
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect nails from oxidative stress and environmental damage. It also improves blood circulation to the nail bed and aids in moisture retention, preventing nails from becoming dry and brittle. Nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, and vegetable oils are all good sources of vitamin E.
Iron is essential for oxygen transportation to the cells, including those responsible for nail growth. An iron deficiency can lead to brittle, thin nails or vertical ridges in the nails. To increase your iron intake, eat red meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, dried fruit, dark chocolate, or dark, leafy greens.
Zinc is required for healthy nail growth and plays a part in protein synthesis, including keratin, a primary component of nails. A lack of zinc can cause white spots on nails and slow nail growth. Animal products like poultry, beef, fish, and eggs are great sources of zinc, but it can also be found in chickpeas, black beans, almonds, and cashews.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that aids in converting food into fuel for the body. It is essential for the production of keratin and can strengthen brittle nails, helping them grow longer and stronger. Liver, egg yolk, dairy, salmon, avocado, sweet potato, nuts, seeds, and beans are all excellent sources of biotin.
In addition to these vitamins, consuming adequate protein and omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for nail health. Nails are primarily made up of a protein called keratin, so a low-protein diet may result in weaker nails. Omega-3 fatty acids help lubricate and moisturize nail beds, preventing dry, brittle nails. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of both protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but you can also find them in beans, legumes, tofu, eggs, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and certain vegetables.
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Use cuticle oil
Using cuticle oil is an effective way to improve the health and appearance of your nails. It is a moisturising product that can be used to hydrate and heal damaged nails and cuticles. Cuticle oil is typically derived from vegetable oils, such as sunflower oil, olive oil, and sweet almond oil, and can also contain vitamins and citric acid. For example, vitamin E is an antioxidant that conditions skin and nails and helps fight and prevent skin damage.
Cuticle oils with smaller molecules, such as jojoba oil, are more easily absorbed by the nail plate. Jojoba oil is particularly effective because its molecules are almost identical to our own sebum. This means it can penetrate through the nail plate more easily than oils with larger molecules, such as coconut oil.
Applying cuticle oil can increase circulation around your nails, stimulating nail growth and helping your nails grow in stronger and healthier. It can also protect your nails and cuticles from trauma and improve their overall health and longevity. Cuticle oil can be used regularly to protect your nails from the demands and wear of everyday life, including excessive sun, water, and cold exposure.
To apply cuticle oil, use a cotton ball, applicator, or brush to dab a few drops of oil onto each cuticle. Then, massage the oil in for a few minutes to ensure that it is fully absorbed. Cuticle oil can also be applied after manicures to protect your nails from chipping or fading too soon and to create a smooth, healthy, and strong base for polish.
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Wear gloves
While wearing gloves can protect your nails from the negative effects of water, it is important to consider the potential downsides of glove-wearing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals were required to wear gloves for extended periods, which led to some experiencing fingernail issues.
Gloves made of materials like nitrile, rubber, polychloroprene, or vinyl are non-breathable. Prolonged use of such gloves creates a moist and warm environment, promoting the growth of natural skin yeast, which can cause nail problems. Candida onycholysis is one such issue, characterised by an irregular border between the attached and unattached portions of the nail. Those who sweat at work or have hyperhidrosis are particularly susceptible to this problem.
To mitigate these issues, it is recommended to let your hands dry out as much as possible between glove-wearing periods. Keeping nails short aids in quicker drying. After removing gloves, wash your hands and nails, dry them thoroughly, and then dip your nails in rubbing alcohol to combat yeast and moisture. Additionally, avoid injuring the skin around your nails, such as by biting or aggressively cutting hangnails.
While wearing gloves can help protect your nails from water damage, it is important to be mindful of the potential for nail issues if gloves are worn for extended periods, especially in warm and moist environments.
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File nails with a glass nail file
Glass nail files are an excellent choice for anyone wanting to grow their nails. They are made from tempered glass, making them durable and long-lasting. They are gentler on nails than metal files, helping to prevent splitting, and create a smoother finish without leaving jagged edges.
To file your nails with a glass nail file, start by selecting a high-quality nail file, such as the Earthy Glass file or the Dr. Dana Glass Nail File, which are both gentle on nails and help prevent splitting. Ensure your nails are clean and free of any polish or dirt. Wash your hands thoroughly and use nail polish remover if necessary.
When filing your nails, follow the natural shape of your nails and file in one direction only. Avoid sawing back and forth, as this can cause damage to the nail. File slowly and gently, taking care not to apply too much pressure, as glass nail files are delicate and can break if dropped on hard surfaces or used to pry things open.
It is recommended to file your nails once a week for effective maintenance, but adjust this frequency based on your personal needs and nail growth. In addition to filing, it is important to trim your nails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and prone to breakage. Aim to trim your nails every two weeks, or sooner if needed.
By incorporating a glass nail file into your nail care routine and following these steps, you can achieve stronger, healthier, and more beautiful nails.
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Moisturise your hands
Water exposure weakens the structure of your nails, compromising their ability to retain hydration. Therefore, it is important to moisturise your hands and nails regularly. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to protect your nails from water and chemicals. After water exposure, apply a moisturising cream or hand balm to your nails and massage it in to reduce peeling and brittleness and stimulate blood circulation. You can also use cuticle-specific creams and oils, such as jojoba-based cuticle oil, to moisturise your nails and cuticles.
When choosing a moisturiser, look for products containing urea, phospholipids, or lactic acid to help prevent cracking. Oils, such as sunflower oil and Brazil nut oil, are also effective in increasing nail flexibility and combating dryness. You can even use natural oils like coconut oil or olive oil to moisturise your nails.
In addition to external moisturising, it is important to consider your diet. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, soy, eggs, and seeds, can help prevent dry and brittle nails.
Exfoliation is another important step in nail care. Just like the skin on your body, your nails can benefit from gentle exfoliation to remove dead cells and improve nail health.
Finally, protect your hands and nails from the sun by wearing sunscreen or using creams with sun protection. This will help keep your hands and nails looking and feeling their best.
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Frequently asked questions
Treat your nails with care and keep them hydrated. Use a glass nail file instead of clippers and try not to use your nails to open things.
Applying a cuticle oil regularly can help with nail growth. You can also use nail lacquer and nail slugging to improve nail health.
Eating nutritious foods can improve nail, hair, and skin health. Incorporating fats, iron, protein, and vitamins A, E, and D into your diet can be beneficial. Folic acid (vitamin B9) can also help repair and multiply the cells that make up nails.
Opening parcels, improper removal of gels, certain medications, and an unbalanced diet can all contribute to fragile nails. Water is also bad for your nails, so it is recommended to wear gloves while cleaning or washing dishes.
Maintaining regular appointments with a manicurist can help your nails grow and stay healthy. You can also try using Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) or builder gel to add a protective layer to your nails and prevent chipping or breaking.
