Caleb Foster
Strong and healthy nails are an indicator of good health. However, sometimes our nails are weak and brittle. This could be due to various reasons, including vitamin deficiencies, chemical exposure, and chronic conditions like hypothyroidism. To strengthen nails, it is important to address the root cause. Strategies to achieve this include drinking enough water, eating a nutrient-dense and protein-rich diet, and using nail lotions and oils. Additionally, consistent use of nail strengtheners and treatments can help. Maintaining proper nail care practices, such as moisturising the nails and avoiding the frequent use of nail polish, can also contribute to stronger nails.
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What You'll Learn
Diet and supplements
Firstly, ensure you are consuming enough water throughout the day. Water helps your nails retain moisture, preventing them from becoming brittle, breaking, or peeling easily.
Secondly, consider taking a biotin supplement. Biotin is one of the B vitamins, also known as vitamin B7. It helps strengthen nails and hair and supports the proper functioning of the body's nervous system. However, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before taking biotin supplements to ensure they are safe for you and do not interfere with any medications you may be taking.
Additionally, focus on eating a nutrient-dense and varied diet rich in protein. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to brittle nails. Include protein sources such as baby spinach, which has been anecdotally linked to improved nail health. A well-rounded diet ensures your body, including your nails, receives the crucial vitamins and minerals it needs. Consider taking a multivitamin with minerals to supplement your diet.
Furthermore, incorporate collagen peptides into your daily diet. Collagen has been proven to enhance nail and skin health. You can also use nail oils and strengtheners, such as cuticle oil, to help repair, nourish, and moisturize weak nails.
Finally, if you are experiencing persistent issues with your nail health, consider consulting a healthcare professional or dermatologist. They can help identify any underlying conditions or nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to weak nails and provide personalized advice and treatment options.
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Moisturising and nail care
Moisturising is key to maintaining strong and healthy nails. Nails that are not properly hydrated are more prone to breakage, peeling, and splitting. Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential for nail health, as it helps nails retain moisture and stay strong.
To prevent moisture loss, it is important to frequently moisturise your nails and the surrounding skin with a hand cream. Ointments, such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment, can nourish your nails and protect them from future damage by locking in moisture. Cuticle oils are also highly beneficial for nail health, helping to repair, nourish, and moisturise weak nails. Jojoba oil, applied to the cuticles and the underside of the nails, can be particularly effective.
In addition to moisturising, it is important to consider the products you use on your nails. Nail polish removers that contain acetone can be harsh and cause dryness, peeling, and white marks. Instead, opt for an acetone-free nail polish remover, and give your nails a break from polish every once in a while to allow them to breathe and strengthen. Base and top coats can be helpful when your nails are weak, providing an additional protective barrier from dehydration and breakage.
While over-the-counter nail hardeners can provide short-term results, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist if you are concerned about your nail health. They can determine if there is an underlying issue and prescribe a prescription-strength nail treatment if necessary.
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Underlying health conditions
While nail abnormalities are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions.
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can cause nail abnormalities. For example, vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nail discoloration, and iron deficiency has been linked to brittle nails. Eating a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, typically ensures adequate intake of these nutrients.
Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, have been associated with nail changes. Dry, brittle nails that frequently crack or split may be a sign of thyroid disease. Additionally, yellowish nails with cracking or splitting can indicate a fungal infection, which is a common issue for people with thyroid problems.
Skin Diseases
Inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, can affect the nails. Nail psoriasis causes nail denting or crumbling, and people with psoriasis may notice these symptoms on their fingernails. Additionally, rippling or pitting of the nail surface can be an early sign of psoriasis.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders can also affect nail health. Spoon nails, a condition where nails become concave and resemble spoons, are associated with autoimmune disorders.
Kidney Disease
Horizontal ridges on the nails, also known as Beau's lines, may indicate kidney disease or other underlying health issues.
Lung Disease
Yellow nails can sometimes indicate lung disease. Additionally, bluish nails can signify that the body isn't getting enough oxygen, suggesting a lung problem such as emphysema.
Heart Problems
Bluish nails can also indicate heart issues, and clubbing of the nails—when the ends of the fingers swell, and the nails become curved—can be a sign of heart or lung disease.
Hepatitis
White nails, known as leukonychia, can indicate liver problems, especially if the nails are mostly white with darker rims, which could signify hepatitis.
Anxiety and OCD
Nail biting or picking has been linked to anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If nail biting becomes a concern or is difficult to stop, it is advisable to seek professional help.
While these nail changes might be indicative of underlying health issues, it's important to remember that they can also occur due to other factors, such as injury, overexposure to moisture, or the use of certain nail products. If you have concerns or notice unusual nail symptoms, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional.
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Nail treatments
There are various nail treatments available to help strengthen nails and improve their appearance. Here are some options to consider:
Nail Strengtheners and Hardeners: Consistent use of nail strengtheners is vital for long-term results. Over-the-counter options provide a temporary solution, while prescription-strength treatments are ideal for long-term use. These contain chemicals that increase nail strength and trap moisture, preventing future brittleness.
Nail Lotions and Oils: Moisturizing your nails and the surrounding skin is crucial for nail health. Hand creams, ointments, and cuticle oils help nourish, protect, and moisturize nails, making them less prone to breakage. Cuticle oils, such as jojoba oil, can be applied directly to the cuticles and the underside of the nails for extra hydration.
Base and Top Coats: When dealing with weak nails, base and top coats provide an extra layer of protection against dehydration and breakage. Look for nourishing and protective formulas, such as Essie's Grow Stronger Base Coat and Good to Go Top Coat, to keep your nails strong and your manicure flawless.
Keratin Treatments: Applying a keratin treatment, such as CND RescueRXx, between manicures can help nourish your nails. Keratin treatments can provide essential nutrients to your nails, promoting strength and flexibility.
Supplements: Certain supplements, like biotin (vitamin B7), are known to strengthen nails. Biotin helps support the body's nervous system and can be found in vitamin form or through a diet rich in protein. However, always consult your healthcare provider before taking any supplements to ensure they are safe for you.
Diet and Hydration: A well-balanced diet that is nutrient-dense and high in protein can significantly impact nail health. Ensuring proper hydration is also crucial, as it helps nails retain moisture and stay strong. Drinking enough water and consuming collagen peptides or other protein sources can improve nail strength and overall health.
It is important to remember that addressing any underlying health issues or nutritional deficiencies is essential for achieving strong and healthy nails. If you are concerned about your nail health, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
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Filing and painting
Filing
When filing your nails, it is important to do so gently and in one direction only. Filing back and forth can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage. If your nails are brittle or weak, keeping them at a shorter length can help them build up strength and reduce the chances of breaking.
Painting
While painting your nails can make them look more aesthetically pleasing, it is important to give them breaks from nail polish to allow them to breathe and strengthen. Constant use of polish, even non-toxic varieties, can weaken nails over time. Base and top coats can be particularly helpful in providing an extra protective layer against dehydration and breakage. If you choose to remove your nail polish, opt for an acetone-free remover, as acetone can cause dryness, peeling, splitting, and white marks.
Additionally, consider using a nail strengthener or hardener consistently for long-term results. If your nails are still weak and brittle despite your efforts, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional, as there may be an underlying condition or nutritional deficiency affecting your nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to strengthen nails at home. Firstly, ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your nails hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle. Secondly, consider taking biotin supplements, which can help strengthen nails. Thirdly, use ointments or cuticle oils to moisturize and protect your nails. Finally, try to keep your nails short while they build up strength, and always file them gently in one direction.
Weak nails can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, such as an iron deficiency (anaemia), or chronic conditions, including hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and Raynaud's Syndrome. If you are concerned about the strength of your nails, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.
There are several lifestyle changes that can help strengthen your nails. Firstly, eating a nutrient-dense diet that is high in protein can improve nail health. Secondly, wearing gloves while washing dishes or taking a bath can prevent your nails from weakening due to prolonged exposure to water. Thirdly, reducing the frequency of manicures and acrylic nails can help, as the chemicals in nail polish and the removal process can cause dryness and peeling. Finally, avoid using your nails as tools to open things, as this can lead to chipping and breakage.
