Caleb Foster
Healthy nails are an indicator of good health, but sometimes our nails need a little extra care. There are many ways to strengthen your nails and improve their health, from natural home remedies to professional treatments. Maintaining nail health involves a combination of proper care, diet, and hydration. While there are many options available, it is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another, and it is always best to consult a healthcare professional if you are concerned about the health of your nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Filing | File nails in one direction to prevent splitting |
| Trimming | Trim toenails regularly |
| Cuticles | Moisturise cuticles with oil to prevent dryness and seal nails |
| Nail biting | Avoid nail biting |
| Water exposure | Wear gloves when washing up to prevent water exposure |
| Nail polish | Keep nails polished at all times; use acetone-free nail polish remover; let nails be polish-free for a week after wearing polish |
| Diet | Eat a nutrient-dense diet that is high in protein; consider taking biotin supplements |
| Sun exposure | Apply sunscreen to hands before exposure to UV light |
| Footwear | Wear flip flops at the pool and in public showers to reduce the risk of fungal infections |
| Medical advice | See a dermatologist or healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your nail health |
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What You'll Learn
Use natural nail care products
Using natural nail care products is an effective way to achieve strong, healthy nails. Natural nail care focuses on nourishing your nails with vitamins and minerals, and there are many products on the market that can help you do this.
Firstly, you can use natural nail care products to supplement your diet with the right vitamins and minerals. For example, vitamin B9, B12, and iron can be found in dark green vegetables, citrus fruits, meat, and eggs. Magnesium, which is important for protein synthesis and nail growth, can be found in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, black beans, and cashews. You can also boost your vitamin C intake, which will increase collagen production, by eating citrus fruits, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Secondly, natural nail care products can help you to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated. Moisturizers and nail oils can be applied daily to prevent dry, brittle nails that are prone to breakage and infection. Cuticle oils are especially important as they help to seal your nails and prevent bacteria from entering through cracks in the skin.
When choosing nail care products, opt for those that are vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced. Some natural nail care kits contain biotin, which optimizes the repairing effect and efficiently restores the natural nail plate. These kits usually include products for strengthening and nourishing the entire nail plate.
In addition to the products mentioned, you can also use natural, non-toxic nail polishes to add a protective layer to your nails. Remember to keep your nails painted, as this helps with breakage.
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Keep nails short
Keeping nails short and well-manicured is an important part of nail care. Short nails are less likely to harbour dirt and bacteria, which can lead to infections. Here are some tips to keep your nails short and healthy:
Firstly, it is important to trim your nails properly. The best time to do this is immediately after a shower or a bath, as your nails will be softer and easier to cut. When cutting your fingernails, cut straight across the nail and then use a nail file to round the corners slightly. This will help keep your nails strong and prevent them from catching on things. As for your toenails, cutting straight across reduces the chances of getting an ingrown toenail. Toenails grow slower than fingernails, so they won't need to be trimmed as often.
Always use a nail file or emery board to smooth any rough or uneven edges after trimming. File your nails in one direction only, as filing back and forth can weaken your nails. It is also important to leave your cuticles alone. Cuticles protect the nail root, and cutting or pushing them back can make it easier for bacteria and germs to get inside your body and cause an infection.
To keep your nails healthy, it is recommended to moisturise after trimming, especially in dry weather, as dry nails are more prone to splitting. Applying oil to your cuticles and nails several times a day will also help to nourish them and prevent dryness and breakage. Additionally, avoid biting your nails, as this can give the appearance of shorter nail beds.
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Consume vitamins and supplements
Consuming vitamins and supplements can help promote nail growth and health. While dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, they can help treat deficiencies or fill nutritional gaps. Before taking any supplements, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to confirm if you have any nutrient deficiencies and to ensure the supplements are safe for you.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for the production of keratin, the protein that makes up nails. A biotin deficiency may lead to brittle, weak nails, and hair loss. Small studies have shown that taking 2.5 mg of biotin per day for six weeks to seven months improved symptoms in 63% of participants with brittle fingernails. Biotin can be paired with garlic, as the selenium in garlic is great for growth health.
Vitamin B12 and folate (vitamin B9) are also important for nail health. They play a role in red blood cell formation, new cell development, and iron absorption. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in unusual nail pigmentation, while a folate deficiency can cause nail rigidity and brittleness. Adults require 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 and 400 mcg of folate per day. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy, while folate can be obtained from leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains.
Vitamin C is another crucial nutrient for nail health as it aids in collagen production, which helps strengthen tissues. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C can increase iron absorption and promote nail growth. Vitamin D is also important, as some people with low vitamin D levels have reported having flimsy, weak, and peely nails.
In addition to vitamins, consuming omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements can be beneficial for nail health, especially for those who may not obtain enough from their diet. L-glutamine supplements have also been recommended by dietitians for overall health, which may include nail health.
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Moisturise nails
Healthy nails are nourished and hydrated. Moisturising your nails is key to achieving this. Dry nails are prone to splits, breakage and peeling, and can also lead to your cuticle cracking, increasing the likelihood of infection.
There are many products on the market designed to strengthen and moisturise your nails. You can use any type of cream that you would normally use on your hands, or you can opt for nail- and cuticle-specific creams and oils. Look for ingredients such as avocado oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, vitamin E and cactus flower extract. Coconut oil is also a great way to keep your hands and nails moisturised.
If you are looking for an intensive treatment, you could try a hand mask. These are similar to face sheet masks and are infused with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peach extract, shea butter and vitamin E.
When applying your chosen product, make sure you massage it into your nails and cuticles. This will reduce peeling and brittleness, as well as stimulate blood circulation to encourage healthy nail growth.
For an extra boost of moisture, try 'nail slugging'. After applying your cream or oil, coat each nail in a thick layer of ointment, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor. You could even put on some cotton gloves to keep everything locked in and leave it on overnight.
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Avoid harsh chemicals
Keeping your nails healthy and strong is important, and there are several ways to do this without the use of harsh chemicals. Nails are made of keratin, a type of protein, and when your body is low on keratin, your nails become weak and brittle. Exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals and drying nail products can cause nail problems. Therefore, it is important to avoid nail polishes and removers that contain acetone, as well as products that contain formaldehyde, sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, opt for natural nail hardeners with ingredients like jojoba oil, almond oil, vitamin E oil, and coconut oil, which can help to moisturize and strengthen your nails.
In addition to using natural products, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to avoid harsh chemicals and promote healthy nail growth. This includes wearing flip-flops in public showers and pools to reduce the risk of fungal infections, as well as wearing gloves when washing dishes or doing chores that involve submerging your hands in water to protect your nails from excessive moisture.
It is also important to be mindful of the products you use on your hands and nails. For example, sunscreen can help protect your hands from UV damage, and using a paper clip or the pads of your fingers to open things can help prevent breakage. Additionally, consider taking a biotin supplement, which has been shown to improve nail strength and growth, and eating a nutrient-dense diet that is high in protein.
By following these tips and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can help promote healthy and strong nails.
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Frequently asked questions
You can make your nails stronger by applying oil to your cuticles several times a day. Lemon juice and olive oil make a great natural remedy for strengthening nails. You can also take biotin supplements, which have been shown to improve nail strength and growth.
To prevent your nails from breaking, avoid using them as tools. Opening cans or reaching for things in small spaces can lead to breakage and chipping. Keep your nails trimmed and filed, and consider keeping them shorter as they are less likely to chip or crack.
Nails can become brittle when they are too dry and lack moisture. Avoid nail hardeners and manicures as these can make your nails more prone to breaking. Instead, use natural oils like jojoba oil or coconut oil to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated and flexible.
If you suspect you have a nail infection, see a dermatologist. In the meantime, you can try a natural remedy by making a paste with baking soda and water and gently scrubbing your nails once a week.
Yes, you can make some changes to your diet and daily habits. Eat a nutrient-dense diet that is high in protein and consider taking supplements like calcium or vitamin B. Drink enough water throughout the day and remember to apply sunscreen to your hands before exposure to UV light.
