Isla Bennett
Long, strong nails can be achieved with the right care. Nails can become brittle and break easily when they are exposed to water for too long or when they are used to open or pick at things. To avoid this, you should keep your nails moisturised with oils and creams, and avoid harsh chemicals. You should also eat a nutrient-dense diet with folic acid and biotin-rich foods, such as whole grains, bananas, and avocados.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Avoid | Soaking nails in water for extended periods |
| Using nails to open, peel, or scrape things | |
| Harsh chemicals | |
| Gel and acrylic nails | |
| Use | Cuticle oil regularly |
| Glass nail file | |
| Nail strengthener | |
| Soft nail file | |
| Chemical-free lotions | |
| Acetone-free nail polish removers | |
| Sunscreen on hands | |
| Vaseline Healing Jelly or a petroleum jelly-based ointment | |
| Gloves when washing dishes | |
| Eat | Folic acid-rich foods (fish, red meat, cheese) |
| Biotin-rich foods (whole grains, bananas, avocados) | |
| Collagen peptides |
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What You'll Learn
Consume vitamins and minerals
Consuming vitamins and minerals is essential for achieving long, healthy nails. A diet that is deficient in crucial vitamins and minerals can affect your nail health. Vitamins and minerals can help repair and care for your nail growth.
Vitamin C is essential for nail health as it helps in the production of collagen, which keeps nails strong and supports faster growth. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli. Vitamin E is another critical nutrient for nail health, as it is an ultra-hydrating oil that helps heal and promote new nail growth. Vitamin E also provides hydration to the nail beds and the surrounding skin, reducing nail brittleness. Almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach are excellent sources of vitamin E.
Vitamin B, particularly B-7 and B-12, are also important for nail health. These vitamins help supply essential fatty acids to the nails, keeping them hydrated and improving their texture. Foods rich in vitamin B include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Vitamin D is another critical nutrient for nail health, as it strengthens nails and encourages growth, reducing weak and peeling nails. Vitamin D also works together with calcium to support nail health. Exposure to sunlight is an excellent way to increase your vitamin D levels, and dietary sources include fatty fish and egg yolks.
Minerals are also crucial for nail health. Calcium keeps the nail bed healthy and supports nail growth. Most milks and juices are calcium-fortified, making it easy to include calcium in your diet. Magnesium is another vital mineral for nail health, known for its anti-stress properties. A lack of magnesium can lead to poor nail growth and unsightly nail ridges. Pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate are delicious sources of magnesium.
Zinc is an essential mineral that contributes to overall nail health and supports nail growth. A zinc deficiency can lead to white spots on nails, inflammation of the cuticles, and poor nail growth. Lean meat, seafood, peanuts, turkey, and dark chocolate are excellent sources of zinc. Iron is another critical mineral, as it keeps nail beds healthy and ensures the proper amount of oxygen reaches the nails.
Biotin, a water-soluble vitamin, is also widely recommended for nail growth. Those with biotin deficiencies often experience brittle nails. Clinical trials have shown that biotin supplements lead to improvements in nail firmness, hardness, and thickness. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any supplements, as biotin may interfere with certain laboratory tests.
In addition to specific vitamins and minerals, it is crucial to maintain a well-balanced diet rich in proteins, iron, and other essential nutrients to support overall nail health. Staying hydrated is also an important part of nail care, as it helps keep nails healthy and flexible.
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Use nail strengtheners
Using nail strengtheners is an effective way to heal and grow your nails. They help fortify cuticles and harden nails, protecting them from peeling and breaking with regular use over time. The best nail strengtheners promote hydration and flexibility, creating a protective coat to seal in moisture.
There are many nail-strengthening treatments available that can help turn weak, brittle nails around. Look for ingredients like keratin, wheat protein, calcium, and biotin for the best results. For instance, Olive & June's Nail Strengthener is packed with plant-based ingredients, including celery seed extract, which helps heal and condition the nail's surface. It also reduces those stubborn white marks and ridges.
If you're looking for a product that strengthens and supports nail growth while masking imperfections, try ORLY Nailtrition Nail Growth Treatment. For a high-shine finish, the keratin-enriched Lights Lacquer Magic Strengthener is a good option. You could also try Duri's intensive growth treatment, which uses hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, and calcium to promote flexibility, reduce brittleness, and create a protective coat.
For a nourishing formula that supports cuticle health, try the CND Nail Strengthener RXx Daily Keratin Treatment, which is enriched with sweet almond oil. This ensures nails are hydrated and flexible enough to prevent breakage.
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Avoid water and harsh chemicals
Water and harsh chemicals are your nails' worst enemies. The longer your nails are exposed to water, the more brittle they become. Water softens the nails, making them weak and flexible, causing them to bend or break easily. So, try to avoid soaking your nails in water for extended periods. Take shorter showers or hold your hands out of the bath. If your nails will be in contact with water for a long time, it is advisable to apply a base coat of polish on them and trim them down.
It is also important to protect your nails from harsh chemicals. The products you use on your hands and nails can significantly impact your nail health. Avoid using harsh soaps and always wear gloves when washing dishes to minimize exposure to water and soaps that can dry out your nails. Opt for chemical-free lotions and acetone-free nail polish removers, as these won’t break down your nails’ natural barrier.
To keep your nails strong and healthy, it is essential to maintain proper nail care. Regularly apply cuticle oil or nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil to your nails and cuticles to promote growth and strengthen them. You can also use a petroleum jelly-based ointment, such as Vaseline Healing Jelly, to help trap moisture and strengthen your nails.
Additionally, consider taking biotin supplements or including biotin-rich foods in your diet, such as whole grains, bananas, and avocados. Biotin promotes strong and healthy nail growth, and can help address brittle nails prone to peeling and breakage.
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Apply cuticle oil regularly
Applying cuticle oil regularly is a great way to keep your nails healthy and strong. Cuticle oil helps to hydrate the cuticle and the nail bed, which is essential for nail growth. Well-moisturised nails are less likely to break and chip, and will grow long and healthy.
There are many cuticle oils available on the market, but you can also use natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil. Simply massage the oil into your nails and cuticles, and you'll soon notice a difference in the strength and appearance of your nails. You can also use cuticle balm, such as Dior's Creme Abricot, to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated and healthy.
If you don't have access to cuticle oil, you can use a nail strengthener or nail cream to achieve similar results. These products are designed to fortify your nails and prevent breakage. OPI Nail Envy and Sally Hansen Diamond Strength are popular options, and you can also find nail strengthener formulas from brands like Nailtiques.
It's important to remember that your nails are delicate, and they can easily become brittle and weak when exposed to water and harsh chemicals. So, when applying cuticle oil, make sure your nails are clean and dry. Try to avoid soaking your nails in water for too long, and always wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning to protect your nails from harsh soaps and chemicals.
By incorporating cuticle oil into your nail care routine, you'll be able to grow and maintain strong, healthy nails. It's a simple step that makes a big difference!
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File nails with a glass nail file
Glass nail files, invented in 1997 in the Czech Republic, are made from tempered glass and are a great option for those wanting to grow their nails without breakage. They are more gentle than traditional emery boards, which can be harsh on thin nails, and are better at preventing splitting and breakage. Glass files have a finer grit, making them ideal for those with weak or brittle nails.
When filing your nails with a glass nail file, it is important to first prepare your nails. Wash your hands thoroughly to remove any dirt or oils that could get in the way of a close file. Dry your hands and nails completely with a clean towel. Select a high-quality glass nail file that is clean and free from any cracks or chips. Hold the glass nail file at a slight angle to your nail and begin filing.
Glass nail files offer a more precise filing surface, sealing the keratin layers at the edge of the nail, which helps prevent splitting and peeling. This results in healthier, stronger nails with a sleek, smooth finish. Unlike traditional emery boards, which can cause damage when used in a back-and-forth motion, glass nail files can be used in both directions without causing the layers of keratin to shred, which can leave the edge thinner and more prone to peeling and chipping.
Glass nail files are also more durable and long-lasting than traditional emery boards, making them a more sustainable option. With proper care and cleaning, a high-quality glass nail file can last for years. To clean your glass nail file, rinse it under warm water and use a soft brush with mild soap or 70% isopropyl alcohol for deeper cleaning. Allow the file to air dry or pat it dry with a clean towel before storing it.
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Frequently asked questions
Avoid exposing your nails to water for extended periods, as this can make them brittle and weak. You should also avoid harsh chemicals and opt for chemical-free lotions and acetone-free nail polish removers. Use a glass nail file instead of clippers and try not to use your nails to open things.
Consuming vitamins A, C, and B9 (folic acid) can help strengthen your nails and support their growth. Biotin supplements and biotin-rich foods such as whole grains, bananas, and avocados may also help promote strong and healthy nails.
Applying cuticle oil or balm regularly can help prevent breakage and strengthen your nails. You can also try nail-strengthening products such as OPI Nail Envy, Sally Hansen Diamond Strength, and Nailtiques Formula 2.
