Liam Carter
Growing your nails out can be a gradual process that requires patience and consistency. However, there are several ways to promote nail growth and strength. This includes using cuticle oil regularly, taking vitamins such as biotin, and maintaining a well-balanced diet. It is also important to groom your nails regularly and use a gentle nail file to keep them smooth and prevent snagging. In addition, using nail-strengthening products and protective layers such as builder gel can help prevent chipping and breakage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use of nail/cuticle oil | Coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, jojoba oil |
| Nail filing | Glass nail file |
| Avoidance of nail trauma | Use knuckles to open things |
| Diet | Folic acid, vitamin B9, biotin |
| Nail treatments | OPI Nail Envy, builder gel (BIAB) |
| Nail grooming | Clipping, trimming, buffing |
| Hydration | Water |
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What You'll Learn
Use cuticle oil regularly
Using cuticle oil regularly is an important step in achieving healthy and strong nails. Cuticle oil is a moisturising product for your nails and cuticles, commonly made from vegetable oils, and sometimes containing vitamins and citric acid.
Cuticle oil helps to improve the health and appearance of your nails, and can also protect your nail polish. It is particularly useful for those with dry cuticles, as it helps to keep the nail flexible and can help to keep the layers of keratin bonded together. Jojoba-based nail oils are often recommended as the oil can penetrate through the layers of keratin, whereas other oils sit on top and do not have the same effect.
You can purchase cuticle oil with added vitamins and antioxidants, such as Vitamin E. Simply dab a little onto each nail bed and rub it in, or use a brush for application. You can also use coconut oil on an old toothbrush to massage the oil into your cuticles and nail beds. Aim to get oil on your nails at least once or twice a day, and ideally every night.
Regular hand lotion is fine for the skin on your hands, but it is not as effective for the skin around your nails or the nails themselves. Lotion can easily be washed away, whereas oil can last through handwashing.
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Take vitamins and supplements
Taking vitamins and supplements can help to strengthen nails and promote growth, especially if you are experiencing vitamin deficiencies. Biotin supplements, for example, have been shown to strengthen brittle nails and improve their growth. Biotin is most concentrated in organ meats, egg yolk, dairy products, yeast, salmon, avocado, sweet potato, nuts, seeds, and even cauliflower. If you are a vegetarian, you may want to consider taking a biotin supplement.
Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is another important vitamin that repairs and multiplies the cells that make up nails, thus speeding up growth and promoting overall nail health. Folic acid deficiencies may cause discolouration and contribute to brittle and weak nails. Foods rich in folic acid include beans and whole grains, but you can also buy folic acid supplements over the counter.
Vitamin B12 plays a role in iron absorption, as well as the development of red blood cells, which are necessary for keeping nails strong and healthy. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in discolouration and pigmentation.
Zinc is also required for the healthy growth of your nails. Animal proteins are a great way to consume adequate zinc through your diet, though certain plant foods pack this mineral as well.
Vitamin C is needed to make collagen, which lends nails their strength, shape, and resistance to breakage. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin C in adults is 90mg daily for males or 75mg daily for females. If you are a smoker, bump this up by 35mg.
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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 with a slightly gritty texture on one side, which is used for filing. Glass files are a lot finer than traditional emery boards, making them perfect for those with weak or brittle nails.
When filing your nails, it is important to start from the outside edge and move into the centre. This technique will give you a smooth finish and more control over the shape you are trying to achieve. Be sure to disinfect your glass nail file with an alcohol wipe after each use to keep it clean and avoid any potential nail infections.
Glass nail files are also a more sustainable option, as they can last up to a year. This makes them a more cost-effective and eco-friendly choice than traditional emery boards, which need to be replaced frequently.
If you are looking to grow your nails out, using a glass nail file can help to keep the sides of your nails from splintering. It is also important to be mindful of how you use your hands, as activities such as opening cans or flicking light switches can cause nails to break.
Overall, glass nail files are a great option for those looking to improve the health and strength of their nails, especially if you have weak or brittle nails.
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Avoid nail polishes with acetone
While nail polish allows you to express yourself through colour and design, it is important to be mindful of the products you are using. Acetone is a potent solvent that is often found in nail polish remover and is responsible for dissolving nail polish quickly. However, it is extremely harsh on fragile nails and can dry them out, leading to peeling, flaking, and splitting.
To promote nail growth, it is recommended to avoid nail polishes that contain acetone. Instead, opt for modern nail polishes that are fortified with vitamins and fatty acids to keep your nail beds nourished and healthy. These non-acetone polishes are formulated to be gentle on your nails while still providing long-lasting colour and shine. By choosing acetone-free nail polishes, you can avoid the negative side effects associated with acetone and support the health and strength of your nails.
Additionally, when removing nail polish, consider using acetone-free removers or natural alternatives. Natural nail polish removers, such as those containing grape seed oil or glycerin, are effective in removing nail polish while being kinder to your nails and skin. They may take a little longer to work, but they are a worthwhile investment in the health of your nails.
If you do use acetone-based nail polish, it is important to take extra care of your nails before and after application. Coat the skin around your nails with a moisturising oil or cream to create a protective barrier. After removing the polish, be sure to wash your hands and apply a nourishing nail and cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails and prevent dryness.
Finally, maintaining a healthy diet and taking supplements can also contribute to nail growth and strength. Include foods rich in folic acid, such as beans and whole grains, or consider taking a hair, skin, and nails vitamin supplement to provide your body with the nutrients it needs for optimal nail health.
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Use a builder gel (BIAB)
Using a builder gel is a great way to protect, grow and strengthen your nails. Builder In A Bottle (BIAB) is a gel-like nail polish that works similarly to a normal gel polish but has a thicker consistency, providing a strong and durable layer. It is perfect for short to mid-length manicures and can be used to create a strong extension that lasts just as long as acrylics, without any damage.
Builder gel is applied as an overlay to your natural nails. It dries to form a strong and durable layer, so you don't have to worry about chipping your nails. BIAB will last for around three to four weeks, after which you should get them removed and re-done or infilled, similar to acrylic nails.
To apply builder gel, you must first clean your nails and cuticles. Then, shape and buff your nails to help the base coat adhere. Typically, a bead of builder gel is then applied gently to the nail to build up and strengthen the apex of your nail (the highest point on your nail bed). It is important to brush the polish in horizontal strokes so that it properly adheres to the nail. You can also use a base gel to help the builder gel stick better.
To make your builder gel nails last longer, you can try flash curing. This involves curing each nail for 30 seconds and then curing your whole hand for 90 seconds. You can then apply a top coat and cure and wipe your nails with alcohol.
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Frequently asked questions
Growing nails is a gradual process and there is no way to rush it. However, there are some things you can do to help the process along:
- Use a glass nail file instead of clippers
- Moisturise with cuticle oil or nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil
- Take a nail strengthener or biotin supplement
You should also be mindful of what you're doing with your hands. Try to use your knuckles for tasks like opening cans or flicking light switches, and avoid using your nails to open things.
You could also try a builder gel (BIAB), which adds a protective layer to prevent chipping and breaking.
