Liam Carter
Healthy nails are an indicator of good health, but sometimes our nails are weaker than we would like. Luckily, there are many ways to build up your fingernails, from lifestyle changes to vitamin supplements. So, if you're tired of your nails being weak, brittle, or easily breakable, read on for some doctor-approved tips to help you grow stronger, healthier nails.
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What You'll Learn
Keep them short to avoid breakage
Keeping your nails short is a good way to avoid breakage. Nails that are a little shorter are less likely to be chipped, cracked, or split. This is because long nails are more likely to catch on things and be used as tools, which can cause them to break.
To keep your nails short, it is recommended to trim them when they are soft, such as after a shower or bath. Nails are more prone to breaking when they are dry. Soaking your fingertips in warm water for a few minutes before trimming can also help.
When trimming your nails, it is important to file them in one direction, instead of using a back-and-forth motion, as this can weaken the nails. You should also be careful not to file too much on the sides, as this can also weaken the nails. Filing the edges smooth will help prevent your nails from catching on your clothing or other objects, reducing the likelihood of breakage.
In addition to keeping your nails short, it is important to keep your hands and nails well-moisturized. Applying lotion or nail and cuticle oil regularly can help protect your nails from breaking and keep them strong and healthy.
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File them in one direction with a soft nail file
Filing your nails is an important step in keeping them strong and healthy. It's recommended to file your nails in one direction with a soft nail file, as filing back and forth in a sawing motion can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage and chipping.
When filing, always use a soft nail file with a grit of 180 or higher. Grits below 180 are too harsh and can damage your nails. Crystal nail files are a good option, as they provide a smooth edge finish with a grit of around 400-600. Start by placing the file under the nail edge and gently moving it in one direction across the nail. Go easy on the sides of the nails, as filing too much can weaken them. It's important to be gentle and not apply too much pressure, as this can also damage the nail.
The benefits of filing in one direction are thought to include preventing peeling and breaking. However, some experts, like Doug Schoon, author of 'Nail Structure and Product Chemistry', argue that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Schoon's own experiments, using high-magnified photography to examine the effects of various filing techniques, showed no difference in the condition of the nail plate when filing in one direction versus a back-and-forth motion.
Despite this conflicting evidence, it's generally recommended to file in one direction as a precautionary measure to maintain nail health. Filing your nails in this way may not show immediate results, but it is a good long-term practice to keep your nails strong and prevent damage. Along with other lifestyle changes and a balanced diet, proper nail-filing technique can contribute to the overall health and appearance of your nails.
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Wear gloves when washing dishes
Wearing gloves when washing dishes is an effective way to protect your nails from damage. Firstly, the gloves act as a barrier, preventing your nails from coming into direct contact with water. Nails that are exposed to too much water can become weak and brittle, so it is important to minimise their exposure where possible. Gloves can also protect your nails from harsh soaps and cleaning products, which can dry out your nails and cause chipping and breakage.
When choosing gloves to wear when washing dishes, opt for durable, heavy-duty gloves made from rubber or another waterproof material. You may also want to consider sizing up or doubling up on gloves, especially if you have long nails, to prevent punctures. Some people also recommend padding the fingertips of the gloves with paper towels or cotton balls for added protection.
If you have a manicure, gloves can also help to preserve it by shielding your nails from the chipping and dulling effects of water and soap. However, it is still important to ensure that your nails are thoroughly dry before applying nail polish to avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to nail damage.
In addition to wearing gloves, you can further protect your nails by moisturising them regularly. Applying a cuticle oil or hand cream after washing dishes can help to seal in moisture and prevent dryness.
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Take biotin supplements and vitamin B7
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that promotes healthy cell growth and aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids that are essential for nail growth. Biotin is also known to help strengthen hair and nails and helps the body's nervous system to function properly.
While biotin deficiency is rare, taking biotin supplements and consuming biotin-rich foods may help strengthen brittle nails and improve their growth. A few small studies support the use of biotin supplements for nail growth. One study in 35 people with brittle fingernails found that 2.5 mg of biotin per day for six weeks to seven months improved symptoms in 63% of participants.
Biotin is most concentrated in organ meats such as liver but can also be found in egg yolk, dairy products, yeast, salmon, avocado, sweet potato, nuts, seeds, and even cauliflower. The current recommendation for biotin by the Institute of Medicine is that the daily adequate intake (AI) for adults is 30 μg/day. Most healthy individuals meet these requirements through a well-balanced diet, though many still take up to 500–1,000 μg of biotin supplementation daily.
It is important to note that while biotin supplements are marketed for nail growth and health, there is limited research to support the utility of biotin in healthy individuals. To date, there has been only one study that has shown decreased levels of biotin in healthy individuals, and it was confounded by multiple factors, including patient history. Therefore, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplements to ensure that it is safe for you.
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Moisturise with hand cream or cuticle oil
Moisturising your nails with hand cream or cuticle oil is an important step in building up your fingernails. Cuticle oils can extend the life of a manicure, and a moisturising cuticle oil keeps the nails flexible so they bend without breaking.
There are many hand creams and cuticle oils on the market that can help with nail strengthening and moisturising. For example, Chanel L'Huile Camélia Oil is a cuticle oil that comes in a leak-free pen and is abundant in ceramides, which are known for their intensive moisturising properties. The formula is lightweight and fast-absorbing, leaving cuticles soft and hydrated without any greasy residue.
Another option is to use a hand and nail treatment cream, such as the one by Clarins, which contains raspberry stem cell extract, red algae, shea butter, sodium hyaluronate, and vitamins A, C, and E. This formula is packed with nourishing and reparative ingredients, providing both hydration and protection.
If you are looking for a more natural option, Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream might be a good choice. It contains almond oil, cocoa seed butter, and beeswax, which help to lock in hydration, as well as vitamin E and sunflower oil, which are said to boost brittle and peeling nails.
You can also find cuticle serums, such as the Olive & June Cuticle Serum, which is mess-free and packed with moisturising avocado and jojoba oils. For a more affordable option, try the Seche Condition Keratin Infused Cuticle Oil, which is available at Amazon for $7.
Remember, it is important to moisturise your nails and cuticles regularly, especially after handwashing, to keep them healthy and strong.
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Frequently asked questions
Keep your nails short, as longer nails are more likely to break and be caught on things.
File your nails in one direction with a soft glass nail file, as filing back and forth can weaken your nails.
Avoid using your nails as tools, such as to open a soda can. Instead, use the pads of your fingers. You can also try taking biotin supplements, which can help strengthen nails.
You can moisturize your nails with hand cream or cuticle oil every time you wash your hands.
