Having strong and healthy nails is essential for many reasons, from looking good to being able to do everyday tasks without bothering about them breaking. Here are some tips to help you get stronger and healthy nails:
1-Keep your Nails Trimmed and Filed
Yes, keeping your nails trimmed and filed can help prevent breakage and improve their overall appearance. It’s important to trim your nails regularly to prevent them from getting too long, which can make them more prone to breaking. When filing your nails, make sure to employ a file with a fine grit and file in a single direction to prevent tearing and splintering. This will help keep your nails strong and healthy.
2-Use a Nail Hardener
Nail hardeners are products that can be applied to the nails to help strengthen and protect them. They function by forming a protective layer over the nail, which can help prevent breakage and splitting. Some nail hardeners also hold ingredients that can help nourish and moisturize the nails, which can further help improve their overall health and appearance.
If you choose to use a nail hardener, it’s crucial to follow the instructions on the product label. In general, you will need to apply the hardener to clean dry nails, and you may need to apply it daily or every other day until you see an improvement in the strength of your nails. It’s also a good idea to use moisturizing cuticle oil to help keep your cuticles and the skin around your nails moisturized, as dry cuticles can contribute to nail breakage.
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3-Avoid Biting your Nails
Biting your nails can be a difficult habit to break, but it’s an important one to work on if you want to have strong, healthy nails. When you bite your nails, you can damage the nail bed, which can lead to nail breakage and other problems.
Biting your nails can also expose your fingers to bacteria and other germs that may be present under your nails, which can increase your risk of infection.
4-Use a Moisturizing Cuticle Oil
Operating a moisturizing cuticle oil can help keep your cuticles and the skin around your nails hydrated and healthy. Dry, brittle cuticles can be prone to cracking and breaking, which can lead to nail breakage and other problems.
5-Avoid Using Harsh Nail Polish Removers
Using harsh nail polish removers can be drying and harsh on your nails and cuticles. Acetone-based nail polish removers can be especially drying, as they can strip away natural oils from your nails and cuticles. This can lead to dry, brittle nails that are more prone to breaking and splitting.
6-Wear Gloves when Cleaning
Wearing gloves when cleaning can help protect your nails and the skin around them from harsh chemicals and detergents. These substances can strip away natural oils from your skin and nails, leaving them dry and brittle and more prone to breaking and splitting.
7-Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help promote healthy nail growth and overall nail health. Nails are made up of a protein called keratin, so it’s important to get enough protein in your diet to support nail growth. In addition to protein, there are a few other nutrients that are important for healthy nails:
- Biotin: Biotin is a B vitamin that helps with the metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Getting enough biotin in your diet can help strengthen your nails and promote healthy nail growth. Good sources of biotin include eggs, nuts, and legumes.
- Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that helps with the production of collagen and keratin, both of which are important for healthy nails. Good sources of zinc include seafood, meat, and whole grains.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps with the production of collagen, which enables maintaining healthy nails. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, and peppers.
8-Avoid Exposing your Nails to Excessive Water
Excessive water exposure can weaken and dry out your nails, making them more prone to breaking and splitting. When your nails are continually exposed to water, the moisture can cause the nails to expand and then contract as they dry, which can lead to cracks and splits.
9-Take Breaks Between Manicures
Giving your nails a pause between manicures can help them recover and become stronger. When you apply nail polish and other nail products, they can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breaking and splitting. By taking breaks between manicures, you can allow your nails to rest and recover from the drying effects of these products.
10-Consider Taking Supplements
Some people find that taking supplements such as biotin and gelatin can help strengthen their nails. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps with the metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Gelatin is a protein that is derived from collagen, and it can help strengthen nails and promote healthy nail growth.
If you’re interested in trying supplements to help strengthen your nails, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help you determine the appropriate dosage and advise you on any potential interactions with medications you may be taking.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your nails strong and healthy. Remember to be patient and consistent with your nail care routine, as it may take some time to see results.
Photo: Pexels/ Valeriia Miller
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