Isla Bennett
Growing long, strong nails is a dream for many, but it can be challenging to achieve. The key to growing long nails is to ensure they are healthy and strong, which can be done in several ways. Firstly, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for nail health. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial, and using cuticle oil or nourishing oils like coconut oil can promote nail growth and strength. Moisturising the hands and nails regularly is also beneficial, protecting the nails from environmental stressors and keeping the skin supple. When filing nails, it is recommended to use a glass or crystal nail file instead of traditional emery boards to avoid microscopic tears that can lead to splits and breakage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vitamins and Supplements | Prenatal vitamins, hair, skin and nails vitamin, keratin supplements |
| Nail Products | Nail strengthener, cuticle oil, hand lotion, base coat |
| Diet | Protein, biotin, iron, zinc, folate, leafy greens, nuts, beans, eggs, lean meats, fish |
| Actions | Wear gloves when washing up or cleaning, moisturize hands, massage nails and cuticles with oil, file nails with a glass nail file, do not use nails as tools |
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What You'll Learn
Use nail/cuticle oil regularly
Using nail/cuticle oil regularly is an essential step in maintaining nail health and appearance. Cuticle oil is a specialised product designed to nourish and moisturise the cuticles, which are the thin strips of skin at the base of your nails. It helps to soften and hydrate the cuticles, preventing them from becoming dry, cracked, or damaged. By regularly applying cuticle oil, you can promote healthy nail growth, improve the overall appearance of your nails, and protect them from breakage, infection, and trauma.
Cuticle oil is typically made with a blend of natural oils, such as jojoba, almond, avocado, coconut, olive, or argan oil, and may be enriched with vitamins and antioxidants, such as Vitamin E and essential oils. The oil can be applied with a cotton ball or brushed onto the cuticles. Only a few drops are needed as most oils work best in small amounts. Gently massage the oil into the cuticles and surrounding skin to keep them hydrated and promote nail growth.
It is recommended to leave the oil on for at least 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to fully absorb. However, you can leave it on for longer, even overnight, by wearing gloves or finger cots to prevent the oil from transferring. Regularly massaging your nails and cuticles with nourishing oils can promote growth and strengthen your nails. Cuticle oil can also help protect your nail polish for a lasting shine.
While cuticle oil isn't necessary for nail health, it is an excellent treatment for dry nails and cuticles. Using cuticle oil regularly can help keep your nails strong and healthy, allowing them to grow longer and healthier.
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Take supplements
While there is no proven way to make your nails grow faster, taking certain supplements can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking, giving them the best chance of healthy growth.
Biotin is an important type of B vitamin that allows the body to turn food into energy. Several human studies suggest that taking a biotin supplement daily can help strengthen nails and even increase nail thickness and hardness. Some scientists say that a dose of 2.5 milligrams of biotin daily can improve nail strength in just a few weeks. Biotin can be found naturally in foods, but you can also buy biotin supplements online.
Calcium supplements are another option to consider. Nails are made of protein, and consuming too little protein in your diet may adversely affect nail health. Calcium supplements that contain vitamin D are preferable. People at risk of calcium deficiency should consider supplementing their diet with this essential mineral.
Folic acid supplements are also available over the counter. Foods like beans and whole grains are rich in folic acid.
In addition to supplements, a well-balanced diet that includes high-quality protein, a variety of fruits and vegetables, along with good sources of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and D, can provide the building blocks needed for healthy nails.
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Moisturise your hands
Keeping your hands and nails moisturised is essential for nail health and growth. The nail is 1000 times more permeable to water than the skin, so water exposure can weaken the nail's structure, compromising its ability to retain hydration. Therefore, it is important to wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning and to apply moisturiser to your hands and nails immediately after they have been exposed to water.
There are many different products on the market designed to moisturise your hands and cuticles, and perfect your at-home manicure. GLOSSLAB salon owner Rachel Apfel Glass recommends coconut oil for hydrating hands and nails, as it makes your manicure last longer. She suggests applying coconut oil once or twice a day to reap its full moisturising benefits. You can also use your regular hand cream on your nails, or opt for a nail-specific cream like Londontown's Kur Restorative Nail Cream, which contains vitamin E to strengthen nails and prevent cracking.
Dermatologists recommend rubbing petroleum jelly, vitamin E, or cuticle cream into your cuticles at night. Applying a moisturising cream or hand balm to your nails daily will help keep them from drying out and cracking. Moisturising products that contain urea, phospholipids, or lactic acid will help prevent cracking.
Buffing your nails gently will boost circulation to your nail bed, and massaging your fingertips every day will increase circulation to the skin around your nails, keeping it healthy and preventing it from cracking and peeling.
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Wear gloves when cleaning
Water is one of the worst enemies of your nails. To prevent water damage, it is recommended to wear gloves when cleaning, doing the dishes, or even showering. Wearing gloves while cleaning can help protect your nails from harsh chemicals and nail products, and prevent the spread of infections.
Disposable nitrile gloves are a popular choice for nail technicians as they do not ruin your nails or manicure. They are also beneficial as they can be discarded after a single use, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. However, wearing gloves for extended periods may cause a damp environment, leading to the formation of natural skin yeast, which is detrimental to nail health. Therefore, it is essential to change gloves frequently, wash your hands, and let them dry before putting on a new pair.
To further protect your nails, you can apply a base coat or nail polish, creating a barrier against water. Additionally, maintaining well-hydrated nails with oils such as jojoba oil or other nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil can promote nail growth and strengthen them.
Wearing gloves while cleaning is a simple yet effective way to protect your nails from damage and keep them healthy and strong. By combining glove use with other nail care practices, such as using cuticle oil and nail strengtheners, you can create an optimal environment for your nails to grow longer and healthier.
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File your nails with a glass nail file
Glass nail files are a great way to keep your nails healthy and strong. They are made from tempered glass and have a slightly gritty texture, which is used for filing. The fine grit of the glass gently seals the keratin layers at the edge of the nail, helping to prevent splitting and peeling. This type of nail file is also super durable, easy to clean, and a more sustainable choice for both personal and professional use.
To use a glass nail file, start by washing 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. Then, select a high-quality glass nail file that's clean and free from any cracks or chips. Hold the file at a slight angle to your nail and grip it firmly but comfortably to maintain control. Decide on the shape you want your nails to take, then gently sculpt your nails' edges. After achieving the desired shape, use the glass nail file to smooth out any rough edges. Lightly file the tips, too, to ensure they're even and snag-free.
It's important to note that glass nail files may not be the best option for everyone. While they are excellent for natural nails, they may not be strong enough for shaping thick nails or removing gels. In those cases, a classic nail file or emery board might be a better choice. Additionally, glass nail files should be disinfected with an alcohol wipe after each use to maintain optimal cleanliness.
By incorporating a glass nail file into your nail care routine, you can achieve healthier, stronger, and longer nails. The gentle yet effective filing action of the glass nail file helps to seal the keratin layers, reducing the chances of breakage and promoting nail growth.
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Frequently asked questions
You can't grow your nails in a day, but here are some tips to help you grow your nails over time.
Glass or crystal nail files are best as they create a perfectly smooth, split-free edge.
Try to avoid using your nails as tools, and wear gloves when cleaning or doing chores to avoid water damage.
Nail strengtheners or hardeners can help protect your nails. You can also try cuticle oil and hand lotion to keep your nails and cuticles strong and healthy.
Yes, a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can contribute to healthier nail growth. Try incorporating foods like eggs, lean meats, fish, beans, nuts, and leafy greens.
