Isla Bennett
Having strong and healthy nails is a sign of good health. However, sometimes our nails aren't as strong as we'd like them to be due to various reasons such as nutritional deficiencies, chemical exposure, or certain medications. The good news is that there are plenty of easy steps and lifestyle changes you can take to grow your nails thicker. From making sure your body is well-hydrated to using the right nail care products, you can achieve stronger and healthier nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Avoid | Drying shampoo, frequent gel manicures, and nail polish |
| Use | Cuticle oil, gloves, sunscreen, nail lotions, nail files, base coat, non-acetone nail polish remover |
| Consume | Biotin, calcium, protein, water |
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What You'll Learn
- Consume vitamins and supplements, such as biotin, calcium, and protein
- Keep your nails hydrated with cuticle oil and ointments
- Avoid harsh nail treatments, such as gel polish and nail clippers
- Wear gloves to protect your nails from water and chemicals
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with sufficient protein and calcium
Consume vitamins and supplements, such as biotin, calcium, and protein
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a water-soluble vitamin that is abundant in cosmetic products. It is often marketed as a supplement for nail growth, and some studies have shown that taking 2.5 mg (2,500 mcg) of biotin daily may improve nail firmness, hardness, and thickness. However, there is limited research to support the effectiveness of biotin in healthy individuals, and it is primarily recommended for those with underlying pathologies for poor nail growth.
Calcium is another important mineral for nail health. Calcium-deprived nails tend to grow slowly, and a calcium deficiency can weaken your bones and lead to other health issues. While nail growth issues cannot be solely attributed to calcium deficiency, it is one of the top contenders.
Protein is a crucial component of nails, which are made of a hard protein called keratin. An anti-inflammatory, high-protein diet that includes lean sources of protein, nuts, seeds, legumes, and healthy fats will provide your nails with the nutrients they need to be strong and healthy.
In addition to these specific vitamins and supplements, maintaining a well-balanced diet and proper nutrition is essential for nail health. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, adequate carbohydrates, and healthy fats can promote stronger and healthier nails.
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Keep your nails hydrated with cuticle oil and ointments
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 is typically made with a blend of natural oils, such as jojoba, almond, avocado, grapeseed, peach, and sunflower oils, and is sometimes enriched with vitamins and antioxidants. Cuticle oil 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 and infection. Cuticle oil provides essential hydration to the cuticles, preventing them from becoming dry and brittle. This helps to maintain the overall health and flexibility of the nails. The vitamins and nutrients present in cuticle oil nourish the nails, promoting their strength and resilience. This can help prevent breakage and splitting, allowing your nails to grow longer and healthier.
It is recommended to apply cuticle oil at least once a day. However, you can apply it more frequently if your cuticles are particularly dry or if you engage in activities that can strip moisture from your nails, such as frequent hand washing, exposure to harsh chemicals, or the use of drying shampoos. Listen to your nails and cuticles—if they feel dry or brittle, it may be a sign that they need more frequent application of cuticle oil.
To apply cuticle oil, simply dab a small amount onto your cuticles and rub it in. Allow the oil to sit for a few minutes to fully absorb, providing maximum hydration and nourishment. You can then use a cuticle pusher or a wooden orange stick to gently push back the softened cuticles, being careful not to apply too much pressure or cause any discomfort. Finally, wipe off any excess oil with a clean tissue or cotton pad to prevent a greasy or slippery feeling.
Using cuticle oil is an effective way to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated, promoting nail growth and improving the overall health and appearance of your nails.
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Avoid harsh nail treatments, such as gel polish and nail clippers
While having a manicure can be a great self-care ritual, some nail treatments can damage your nails. One such treatment is gel polish. While it provides a hard-to-break barrier, the process of removing gel polish can be detrimental to your nail health. The removal process can leave your nails in bad shape, and the UV light used to cure the polish has been identified as a risk factor for skin cancer and can age the skin supporting your nails. If you get a gel manicure, ensure that the technician does not rough up your nail bed with a file and that they do not pull off the polish during removal.
Another way to avoid damaging your nails is to avoid using nail clippers. Clippers can create tiny cracks and tears in your nails that you may not be able to see, but that will lead to further breakage. Instead, use a nail file, which leaves a smooth edge and a more desirable shape. If your nails grow too long, you can use a clipper to cut off most of the length and then file the rest down to your desired length. Filing your nails a little bit every week or two can help keep them from breaking.
In addition to these nail treatment considerations, it is essential to keep your nails and body well-hydrated. Cuticle oil can help with this, as it hydrates the cuticle and nail bed, and it is an important step in nail care. Applying ointment-level thickness moisturizers to your hands can also help. Drinking plenty of water is also crucial for nail health.
Finally, consider taking supplements to support nail health. Biotin, also known as vitamin H and vitamin B7, can help strengthen nails. As it is water-soluble and not stored by the body, daily consumption is necessary. You can also add a B vitamin supplement to your routine, but be sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you take medication or have a chronic condition.
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Wear gloves to protect your nails from water and chemicals
Water and chemicals can damage your nails, making them weak and brittle. This is something to be mindful of, especially if you want thicker and stronger nails.
One way to protect your nails from water damage is to wear gloves when washing dishes or doing other household chores that involve water. Try to keep your hands out of the water when taking a bath, as too much soaking can weaken your nails over time. If you work in a lab or another setting where you're regularly exposed to chemicals, it's crucial to wear the appropriate gloves to safeguard your nails and skin from harm.
In addition to wearing gloves, you can apply oil or balm to your fingertips and cuticles before donning gloves, especially if you plan to wear them for an extended period. This creates a protective barrier, preventing your nails from absorbing water and potentially reducing the damage caused by water exposure. Oiling your nails and cuticles also helps keep them moisturized, which is essential for nail health.
If you frequently use nail polish, gel polish, or artificial nails, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with these products. The chemicals in nail polishes, lacquers, and removers can be potent enough to cause sickness or skin irritation. Therefore, when handling such products, it is recommended to wear gloves, such as disposable nitrile gloves, to safeguard your nails and skin. Additionally, giving your nails occasional breaks from polish and artificial enhancements can help them recover and strengthen.
By taking these precautions and wearing gloves when appropriate, you can help protect your nails from water and chemical damage, promoting healthier and thicker nail growth.
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Eat a healthy, balanced diet with sufficient protein and calcium
Eating a healthy, balanced diet with sufficient protein and calcium is essential for nail health. Nails are primarily made of a hard protein called keratin, so consuming enough protein is critical for strong, healthy nails. Lean beef and pork, chicken, turkey, eggs, and fish are all excellent sources of protein. For vegetarians and vegans, lentils, peanuts, nuts, and dairy products like cheese and milk are good alternatives.
In addition to protein, including various fruits and vegetables in your diet is also vital for nail health. These foods provide the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy nails. For instance, vitamin D is essential for nail health, and a deficiency can cause dry and brittle nails. Eggs and salmon are excellent sources of vitamin D, and fatty fish like salmon are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy cell development and nail growth.
Calcium is another important nutrient for nail health. While there is limited research on the direct impact of calcium on nails, it is known to strengthen bones, and some believe it may have a similar effect on nails. Additionally, iron is crucial, as a deficiency can lead to brittle or dented nails. Lentils and beans are excellent sources of iron and biotin, which can help promote thicker nails.
Overall, a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods is key to supporting nail health and thickness.
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Frequently asked questions
Make sure your nails are hydrated by using cuticle oil or ointment.
Biotin, also known as vitamin H and vitamin B7, can help strengthen nails.
Wear gloves when washing dishes or doing other tasks that involve water, and try to keep your hands out of the water while bathing.
It depends on how fast your nails grow naturally, but nails can take 4 to 6 months to grow out completely.
Avoid nail polishes with harsh ingredients like toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP, as these can dry out your nails.
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