Liam Carter
Natural nails are having a moment, with celebrities like Sofia Richie and Rosamund Pike showcasing their bare, healthy nails. If you're looking to grow your natural nails, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, limit exposure to harsh chemicals like nail polish removers containing acetone, and opt for gentler alternatives. Secondly, incorporate protein into your diet, as it is essential for nail growth. You can also take keratin supplements or apply it topically to build strength and resilience. Additionally, use a glass nail file instead of clippers and file in one direction to prevent splintering. Apply cuticle oil regularly, especially those rich in phospholipids, such as sunflower, canola, or jojoba oil, to improve nail brittleness and flexibility. Finally, consider using builder gel (BIAB) to add a protective layer and prevent your nails from chipping or breaking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail care | Wear gloves while cleaning, washing dishes, and showering to prevent nails from becoming brittle due to water exposure. |
| Nail filing technique | File nails in one direction, using long, gentle strokes from the outside edge to the centre to avoid splintering. |
| Nail products | Use builder gel (BIAB) to add a protective layer and prevent chipping and breaking. Opt for non-acetone nail polish removers or add glycerin or oil (coconut, olive, etc.) to acetone to counteract dryness. |
| Nail health | Take prenatal vitamins or hair, skin, and nail vitamins with keratin to strengthen nails. Eat a balanced diet and increase vitamin B9 (folic acid) intake to repair and multiply nail cells, promoting growth. |
| Cuticle care | Apply cuticle oil regularly, especially jojoba oil, to moisturize and protect nails. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a glass nail file instead of clippers
Glass nail files are least likely to damage your nails. Metal nail files, for instance, are very abrasive and can easily tear and damage natural nails. Glass files are gentle on the nails and easier to clean. They also have a fine grit that prevents nail splintering.
When using a glass nail file, start from one of the outside corners and file toward the centre. Avoid filing back and forth across the entire nail tip, as this can damage the nail. Filing in one direction, using long, swift but gentle strokes, will give you a smooth finish and more control over the shape.
If you are using nail clippers, clip one corner of the nail, then the other corner, and finally, the middle. If you clip all at once, the nail can crack due to the pressure on the nail plate. Clippers can be difficult to control and it is harder to make a precise cut with them.
Glass nail files are a great alternative to clippers as they are less likely to damage your nails. They are also easier to use than clippers, especially for those with a non-dominant hand.
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Take a keratin supplement
Keratin is the main protein that makes up your nails. It is produced naturally by your body and is also found in animal fur, feathers, hooves and horns. Taking a keratin supplement could help build strength and resilience, much like it does for your hair.
There are two ways to take keratin: orally or by applying it topically as an oil. You can also increase your keratin intake by eating more protein-rich foods. This is important for your overall health and nutrition, as well as for nail growth.
If you are considering taking a keratin supplement, it is a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider first to discuss any risks and benefits.
In addition to taking a keratin supplement, you can also promote nail growth by using a builder gel (BIAB) to add a protective layer to your nails and prevent chipping and breaking. You can also try to be mindful of what you do with your hands, as opening parcels and other similar activities can cause nails to break.
It is also important to note that nutrient deficiencies can affect nail growth and strength. In addition to biotin, vitamin B9 (folic acid) is important for nail growth and health, as it repairs and multiplies the cells that make up nails. A deficiency can cause a pigment change and make nails rigid and brittle.
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Wear gloves when cleaning or washing up
Water is one of the worst things for your nails, so it's important to protect them when cleaning or washing up. Wear gloves when you're doing any kind of cleaning, especially washing dishes. You can even wear gloves in the shower if you want to take extra care of your nails.
This is because water can get into your nails and weaken them, making them more prone to chipping and breaking. It's also important to note that harsh chemicals in cleaning products can be very damaging to your nails. Wearing gloves will create a protective barrier between your nails and these chemicals, keeping them strong and healthy.
If you don't like the feeling of gloves or find it impractical for certain tasks, there are some alternative ways to protect your nails. You can apply a base coat or coloured polish to create a barrier between your nails and water. This is a good option if you don't want to wear gloves all the time, but it's important to choose a good quality, dermatologist-approved nail polish that won't dry out your nails.
Another way to protect your nails is to keep them well-hydrated with cuticle oil. Jojoba oil is an excellent choice as its composition is very similar to the skin's natural oil, so it will absorb quickly and easily. Well-hydrated nails are less likely to chip or break, and they will also look and feel healthier.
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Use a builder gel to prevent chipping and breaking
Using builder gel is an effective way to prevent your natural nails from chipping and breaking. Builder gel is a product that can be applied to natural nails to create a protective layer, adding strength and length. It has a thicker consistency than regular gel polish, which allows for easy shaping and sculpting of the nail.
The gel undergoes a curing process when exposed to UV light, triggering a chemical reaction known as polymerization. This reaction transforms the liquid gel into a solid, sturdy, and long-lasting coating on the nail. The flexibility of builder gel also makes it less likely to break, and its high self-levelling properties ensure a smooth foundation layer.
When using builder gel, it's important to follow the instructions of your chosen brand. Some brands require a primer or base coat, while others can be applied directly to the nail. You can build up the gel to your desired thickness and shape by applying several coats and curing between each layer.
Builder gel can be used on its own for a non-chip overlay or with nail tips to create extensions. It is a versatile product, allowing you to create various nail enhancements, including overlays, extensions, and even sculptures. It is also long-lasting, keeping your nails flawless for several weeks.
While builder gel provides added strength, it's important to remember that it's not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools, and reach for the proper tools instead. Regular maintenance is also key to prolonging the lifespan of your builder gel nails. This includes gently pushing back your cuticles and applying cuticle oil to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated.
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Increase your vitamin B9 intake
Increasing your vitamin B9 intake is an important step in achieving healthy, strong nails. Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or folate, is an essential vitamin that supports nail growth and health. A deficiency in this vitamin can cause changes in nail pigmentation, as well as make your nails rigid and brittle.
To prevent a deficiency, it is recommended that adults consume 400 mcg of folate per day. This can be achieved through a balanced diet that includes foods rich in vitamin B9. For example, dark, leafy greens such as spinach and asparagus are excellent sources of folate. Additionally, legumes like beans, peas, and lentils are also good sources. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, are another way to boost your vitamin B9 intake, as well as their ability to improve iron absorption when paired with plant-based iron sources.
If you find that incorporating these foods into your diet is challenging, you may want to consider taking a vitamin B9 supplement. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to ensure it is right for you.
In addition to focusing on your vitamin B9 intake, there are other steps you can take to support nail growth and health. For example, maintaining a well-balanced diet that includes adequate protein is essential for nail growth. You can also try using nail strengtheners or hardeners to reduce the chances of breakage. Additionally, wearing gloves when cleaning or doing dishes can help protect your nails from harsh chemicals and water exposure, which can dry out your nails and affect their health.
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Frequently asked questions
Always file in one direction, using long, swift but gentle strokes. Start from the outside edge and move into the centre for a smooth finish and more control over the desired shape. Glass nail files are recommended as they are gentler on the nail and prevent splintering.
Nail strengtheners or hardeners can help reduce the chances of breakage. Look for products that contain keratin and silicon to promote nail growth.
Yes, prenatal vitamins or hair, skin, and nail vitamins are often recommended. You can also increase your intake of vitamin B9 (folic acid) as this repairs and multiplies the cells that make up nails, promoting growth.
Nails are made of protein, so ingesting more protein through your diet or supplements can help.
Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to avoid prolonged exposure to water, which can be damaging. Use cuticle oil to keep nails moisturised and protected. Try to avoid using your nails to open things, and be mindful of how you use your hands throughout the day.
