Caleb Foster
While there is no magic bullet for nail growth, certain products can help strengthen nails and prevent breakage, creating an optimal environment for growth. One such product is nail polish, specifically gel polishes, which can provide a hard coating to protect nails and allow them to grow. These polishes often contain nourishing ingredients like hydrolyzed wheat protein, calcium, and keratin, which reinforce brittle nails and boost flexibility. Additionally, a knowledgeable nail technician can offer advice and recommendations for weak nails, ensuring the safe application and removal of gel polish, which, if done improperly, can weaken nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, calcium, celery seed extract, rosemary leaf extract, sage leaf extract, keratin |
| Benefits | Strengthens nails, prevents breakage, reduces brittleness, seals in moisture, provides a protective layer, encourages healthy nail growth, repairs nails |
| Application | Easy to apply, dries quickly, smooth and glossy finish |
| Considerations | May cause dryness if it comes into contact with skin, potential allergic reactions |
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What You'll Learn
Keratin-replenishing formulas
The hard part of the nail, called the nail plate, is made primarily of a protein called keratin. This is the same protein that makes up hair. Chronically weak nails might be lacking keratin, so replenishing it can help strengthen nails and stop breakage.
Another product is the Lights Lacquer Magic Strengthener, which contains keratin and is designed for once-a-week application, leaving a high-shine finish.
Nail-Aid also produces a "keratin 3-day growth" polish, which one user said helped strengthen their nails.
Keratin nail treatments are also available in salons. These treatments are progressive and should be done every 2-3 weeks to see results.
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Hydrolyzed wheat protein
While hydrolyzed wheat protein is generally considered safe for most people, some individuals with celiac disease have expressed concerns about its presence in nail polishes. This is because celiac disease can cause increased skin sensitivity and a greater predisposition to eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Some people with celiac disease may, therefore, choose to avoid products containing hydrolyzed wheat protein to prevent potential skin reactions.
It is worth noting that some testers have reported that certain nail polishes with strengthening properties can cause dryness when they come into contact with the skin. Thus, it is important to exercise caution when applying such products and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.
Overall, hydrolyzed wheat protein-containing nail polishes can be a useful tool for individuals seeking to improve the strength and appearance of their nails.
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Calcium
Nail plates, which comprise the hard part of the nail, contain only trace amounts of calcium, which likely originates from the water used for handwashing. Calcium is only present on the surface of the nail plate, not in its deeper layers, suggesting that it does not contribute to nail growth or strength. Oral ingestion of calcium, in the form of supplements, is not recommended for nail health as there is no evidence to support this claim.
While calcium-based nail products may not directly enhance nail growth, they can help prevent nails from becoming brittle, peeling, cracking, or chipping. The calcium in these products forms a protective barrier that strengthens the nails and promotes thicker growth.
It is important to note that while calcium may not be the primary factor in nail growth, maintaining overall nail health involves various factors, including a balanced diet with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, moisturizing the hands and nails can support nail growth by preventing dryness and reducing the risk of infections.
In conclusion, while calcium-containing nail products may offer some benefits for nail strength and protection, there is limited evidence to suggest that calcium plays a significant role in nail growth.
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Moisturising
There are many nail care products on the market that claim to moisturise and nourish the nails and the surrounding skin. These products often contain ingredients like collagen, vitamin E, avocado oil, shea butter, and hydrolyzed wheat protein. Some nail polishes are also packed with vitamins and minerals.
To moisturise your nails effectively, you can follow these steps:
- Exfoliate your nails: Just like exfoliating your skin, exfoliating your nails can help remove dead nail cells and improve the absorption of moisturisers. Glycolic acid is a good option for exfoliating the nail plate as it breaks down the bonds of the keratin in the nail cells and helps hold onto moisture.
- Apply a moisturiser: Use a hand lotion, cuticle cream, or oil to massage into your nails and the surrounding cuticles. You can also use a hydrating base coat for all-over hydration. Make sure to pay attention to your cuticles, nail beds, and tips, as these areas all need to be nourished.
- Seal in moisture: Try the K-beauty trend of "nail slugging" by applying a thick, occlusive agent like Vaseline or Aquaphor on top of your exfoliated, moisturised nail bed. You can also wear cotton gloves overnight to lock in moisture.
- Prevent water exposure: Water can weaken the nails, so always dry your nails thoroughly after swimming or showering. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to prevent water and cleaning products from sitting on your nails.
In addition to external moisturising, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help with nail growth and health.
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Strengthening polishes
It is important to note that no specific nail polish, such as a gel or powder, can improve nail health. In fact, some products, particularly those that require harsh methods for removal, may have adverse effects on nail health. The acetone that people use to remove gel nails, for example, can weaken nails.
However, good gel polish brands may be more expensive than other brands, but they can be worth it for their contribution to healthy nails. Sometimes it is best to invest a little more in a product that has been formulated to nurture your nails than to save money on a different brand and then have damaged nails from gel polish. A knowledgeable nail technician should be able to offer you advice and give you recommendations for your weak nails.
Some strengthening polishes contain ingredients such as hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, and calcium, promoting flexibility, reducing brittleness, and creating a protective coat to seal in moisture. Other key ingredients in strengthening polishes include celery seed extract, rosemary leaf extract, and sage leaf extract.
One tester shared that a strengthening polish gave her the longest nails she's had in her life. She noticed that her nails felt stronger than they ever had, and when she stopped applying the polish, her nails were still in pristine condition a week later.
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Frequently asked questions
Keeping nails moisturized and maintaining a healthy diet can help nails grow.
Nail polishes can help nails grow by providing a hard coating that protects nails and allows them to grow stronger.
Hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, and calcium are some key ingredients that promote nail growth and reduce brittleness.
Strengthening polishes are the best for nail growth as they provide a protective coating and contain extra nourishing ingredients.
Keeping nails filed and maintaining their shape can help prevent snagging and breaking, allowing nails to grow.
