Your natural nails are a true reflection of your health. If you have strong, clear nails, it’s a sign that you are taking care of your body. If you have nails that break or crack easy, or they contain spots, it may be a sign that you are not taking care of yourself like you should be. Strong, healthy nails are a must-have, especially with the negative effects of acrylics and gel manicures. The CGS Team is sharing a few key ingredients for stronger nails, to help you grow strong, healthy nails.
How to grow stronger nails
Groom Your Nails
The first step in growing healthy nails is to take care of what’s in front of you. Always trim your nails to an even length. The longer your nails are, the higher the risk of breakage. When doing your nails, use a nail clipper that is an appropriate size for your nails. Toe nail clippers are often much bigger because the nail is harder, it’s not necessary to use this type of clipper on your hands.
When clipping your nails, ensure to trim straight across. Then round the edges with a nail file. It’s important to file your nails down in one direction. Avoid sawing your nails back and forth, which causes your nails to split. Lightly file for a straighter nail look, or file a little longer for rounded edges. When you are done, don’t forget to moisturize your hands and cuticles!
Avoid Too Much Water
Repeated contact with water can contribute to weak nails that split easily. If you often do the dishes or clean around the house, make sure you wear rubber gloves. Harsh chemicals found in most cleaning products can also contribute to weak nails. Also, the more contact your nails have with water, the higher the chances of bacteria growing underneath and potentially causing an infection.
Don’t Forget the Top Coat
One of the worst things you can do to your nails is forget to use the top coat before polishing! Have you seen the difference between nails painted with a top coat and nails painted without? Failing to use a top coat can turn your nails yellow and make them split easily. A top coat acts as a protective layer over your natural nails so that the chemicals in the polish don’t seep down to your natural nail.
Some top coats actually work as nail strengtheners as well. While they are protecting your nails as a top coat should, they are also promoting strong nails. One top coat that has worked so well for us through the years is Sally Hansen Hard As Nails.
Your Diet Makes a Difference
What you digest also has an important influence on how strong your nails can be. A balanced diet that includes plenty of protein and water can help improve your nail strength over time. Much like growing healthy hair, a diet filled with natural foods, protein-packed nutrients, and low fat can help your nails reach their full potential. If you have been eating badly for some time and you notice brittle nails and lifeless hair, your diet should be the first thing you change!
Try Biotin
If you are healthy and take proper care of your nails but can’t seem to get them strong and long, try taking Biotin supplements. Biotin is a natural supplement that’s been tested to support healthy skin, nails, and hair. If you experience pain or obvious discoloration, don’t be afraid to see a doctor. Incorrect self-diagnosis can make the problem worse.
Related: Maintaining Your Cuticles at Home
Having neat, healthy nails is a beauty must! Sure acrylic nails are in style, but keeping that stuff on your natural nails is not a good idea. When you take a break from the acrylics, you want neat nails to show off! What experiences do you have with your nails? What do you do when you find them breaking or chipping easily? Share what works for you for growing healthy nails by leaving a comment below!
