Isla Bennett
Growing strong nails requires a combination of lifestyle changes, consistent care, and the use of appropriate products. While it is important to address any nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and using the right nail care products can all contribute to achieving stronger nails. Additionally, protecting nails from excessive water exposure and choosing suitable nail care techniques and products can also make a significant difference.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Avoid | Water, drying shampoo, UV light, nail polish remover with acetone, frequent manicures and acrylic nails |
| Use | Nail/cuticle oil, nail strengtheners, hand cream, Builder in a Bottle (BIAB), gloves, supplements, a varied diet, a glass nail file |
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What You'll Learn
Keep your nails painted to prevent breakage
Keeping your nails painted can help prevent breakage, especially if you are trying to grow your nails out. However, it is important to care for your nails properly to avoid damaging them.
Firstly, it is important to keep your nails and hands well moisturised. Nails can become brittle and weak when they lose moisture, so applying nail or cuticle oil regularly can help to strengthen them. Coconut oil can be a good option as it is a natural anti-inflammatory, which is ideal if your cuticles are irritated or inflamed.
When painting your nails, it is important to prepare your nails properly to ensure the polish adheres correctly. Nails have natural oils, usually transferred from your fingertips, which can prevent polish from sticking. To avoid this, you can swipe your nails with a polish remover before applying a base coat. However, traditional nail polish removers can be very drying, so it is recommended to shop around for a soy-based, acetone-free option with oils that leave nails moisturised. After removing your old polish, wash your hands with soap and water to get rid of any remaining film or oil before applying a new coat.
If you are trying to grow out your nails, it is recommended to keep them neat and short, which makes it harder to bite them. Biting your nails not only makes them more prone to breakage but also opens you up to infections.
In addition to keeping your nails painted, you can also take care of your nails by using a glass nail file instead of clippers and trying not to use your nails to open things.
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Wear gloves to avoid water exposure
Water is one of the worst chemicals for your nails. Prolonged exposure to water can damage your nails, making them brittle and prone to breakage and peeling. Even daily hot showers can contribute to this. Therefore, it is important to keep your nails dry as much as possible.
Wearing gloves is an effective way to avoid water exposure and protect your nails. Gloves act as a barrier, preventing water from coming into direct contact with your nails. This is especially useful when performing tasks that involve water, such as washing dishes or cleaning. Gloves can also be worn during showers to minimize water exposure.
Disposable gloves, commonly made of nitrile, are often used in nail salons by technicians to protect their hands from harsh chemicals and during services such as manicures and pedicures. These gloves are durable, resistant to many chemicals, and less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to latex gloves. Nitrile gloves are also recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for protection against numerous chemicals found in nail products, except acetone, for which latex or vinyl gloves offer better resistance.
When choosing gloves, opt for powder-free options to prevent potential contamination of the nail bed or nail polish. Additionally, ensure that the gloves fit properly and provide a comfortable grip. It is also important to change gloves between tasks or clients to maintain hygiene and avoid any cross-contamination.
By wearing gloves, you can effectively minimize water exposure to your nails, contributing to their strength and overall health.
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Take supplements to support nail growth
While consuming a variety of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients through food is the best way to improve and maintain nail health, taking supplements can help meet your needs and likely improve your nail health. Biotin supplements, in particular, have been shown to possibly help restore and strengthen brittle nails. Biotin is a B-vitamin that occurs naturally in foods such as legumes, salmon, eggs, and beans. However, it is water-soluble, meaning it is not stored in the body, so it needs to be consumed regularly.
Zinc is another important mineral required for the healthy growth of nails. Animal proteins are a great way to consume adequate zinc through your diet, and certain plant foods also pack this mineral, including pumpkin seeds, beans, nuts, whole grains, and fortified cereals. If you struggle to get enough zinc from food, you may want to consider taking a zinc supplement.
Other supplements that may support nail growth include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and calcium. Omega-3 fatty acids are critical to nourishing the nails and promoting normal moisture levels. Vitamin D helps regulate calcium levels, which is important for nail growth, and calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body, including the nails.
Before taking any new supplements, it is important to speak to your doctor, especially if you are taking medications or other supplements, to ensure they will not interact negatively.
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Use nail strengtheners and hardeners
Using nail strengtheners and hardeners is an effective way to promote healthy nail growth. These products can help heal and strengthen weak and damaged nails, and are great for at-home use between gel manicures. There are two main types of nail strengtheners: hardeners and treatments.
Hardeners create a protective barrier on the nail, making it less prone to bending and tearing. They draw out moisture to make the nail stronger. However, they can be damaging if overused, so caution and research are advised. Formaldehyde treatments, for example, react with the keratin in your nails, creating more cross-links to harden the nail. Londontown's Nail Hardener and Base Coat is a hardening polish made with rapeseed oil, vitamins A and E, and biotin, which leaves nails hydrated and nourished. It serves as an effective protective barrier between the nail and typical nail polish.
Treatments, on the other hand, nourish the nail from the inside out, allowing the nail to be flexible while providing more protection. They are better suited for long-term nail health and can be used as often as you like. Ingredients such as wheat protein, keratin, and biotin are common and effective options to look for. Nailtrition Nail Growth Treatment and Lights Lacquer Magic Strengthener are examples of keratin-enriched treatments that can help strengthen nails and promote growth.
It is important to note that addressing the root cause of weak nails, such as nutritional deficiencies or chronic conditions, may be the most effective way to repair nails. Strategies to strengthen your nails may include taking a biotin supplement, drinking enough water, eating a nutrient-dense and high-protein diet, and using nail oils and lotions.
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File nails with a glass nail file
Glass nail files are an excellent choice for anyone wanting to grow strong and healthy nails. They are made from tempered glass, which makes them both durable and long-lasting. Unlike emery boards or metal files, glass nail files are gentler on nails and help prevent splitting and damage caused by traditional emery boards. The grit on a glass nail file is fine enough that it won't cause microscopic tears, delivering a smooth finish without leaving jagged edges.
When filing your nails with a glass nail file, it is important to ensure your nails are clean and free of any polish or dirt. Wash your hands thoroughly and use a nail polish remover if necessary. Aim to file your nails once a week or adjust the frequency based on your personal needs. It is also important to trim your nails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long, which can result in breakage. A good combination of trimming and the gentle touch of a glass nail file can lead to consistently immaculate nails.
The Earthy Glass file is a popular choice, with a perfect 300 grit and an ideal 18cm length that is easy to hold when filing. Another highly recommended option is the Precision Glass Nail File by Dr. Dana Stern, a board-certified dermatologist. This file features a high-performing precision technology grit that gently shapes and contours natural nails, strengthening and sealing the nail's keratin layer to make your nails more resistant to splitting, peeling, and breakage.
Glass nail files are versatile and can be used for both natural and artificial nails. They are also naturally hygienic and easy to clean, making them a great addition to your nail care routine. With regular use, a glass nail file can help you achieve stronger, more resilient, and beautifully polished nails. Remember to handle your glass nail file with care as it can break if dropped on hard surfaces.
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Frequently asked questions
Stay hydrated, drink enough water, and avoid too much exposure to water.
Use a nourishing and hydrating hand cream to moisturize your hands and nails regularly.
Take supplements such as biotin, and eat a nutrient-dense and varied diet.
Nail strengtheners and hardeners can help your nails grow and stay strong.
File your nails regularly, but not too often. Use a glass nail file instead of clippers and file in one direction only.
