Don’t you just hate it when your freshly manicured nails break off or chips, when it comes in contact with an abrasive or hard surface. This can be attributed to a number of reasons; genetics, medications, age, poor diet, extreme cold and improper nail care habits are all factors for brittle nails.
The ‘Clean girl aesthetic’ trend is still ongoing and flaunting your manicured natural nails has never been cooler. Giving this, it can suck when you give your nails a fresh manicure but it doesn’t last the way you’d want it to. In a time when people have realised that taking good care of their hands and achieving clean, buffed nails is chic, it can be frustrating when yours don’t fully match the aesthetic.
Fortunately, there are some easy lifestyle changes you can start doing today to strengthen your natural nails. The suggestions you’ll read below are recommended by dermatologists for a healthy, stronger nail.
How to Strengthen Your Nails
1. Cut down on acrylic or gel manicures:
Yes, gel manicures are lovely and look pretty when you get them but they are damaging to your nails in the long run. When you do choose this type of manicure, ensure that you give your nails time to breathe in between applications.
2. Regularly moisturise your nails and hands:
We all know that we’re supposed to lotion our bodies but did you know that our nails should be getting some of the love too? Hand creams are also recommended for moisturising the nails and it’s surrounding skin.
Alternatively, culticle oil can be used to repair, moisturise and nourish weak nails. Always keep in mind that parched nails are fragile and peel easily while hydrated ones are shiny and smooth.
3. Keep short nails:
I can count few things that make me happier than seeing my natural nails long and tapered but experts have said that it’s counter-productive to having strong nails.
Research has proven that shorter nails are less likely to breaking because ther is less surface area and less exposed edges to break.
Pro-tip: Keep in mind that the more rounded your nails are, the less probable they’ll snag on any surface.
4. Avoid nail polish removers containing acetone:
Acetone is infamously known for harshly drying out, splitting and peeling the nails. Oil-based nail polish removers are advised to avoid these side effects that serves to weaken the nails.
5. Eat nutrient-rich foods:
Just like how you’d eat a nutritious and balanced meal to grow and stay healthy, you also need to eat well for longer, stronger nails. Consider adding vegetables, nuts, proteins, whole grains, leafy greens, sweet potatoes and fruits to your diet.
6. Always use a soft file for your nails:
Use softer nail files that won’t cause tiny damages or cuts on your nail beds. In addition, the way you file your nails matter; always file them in one direction, using long, swift and gentle strokes. Any other method will cause your nail to splinter.
7. Minimize exposure to water:
You may have noticed that your nails tend to break more when you’re swimming, doing laundry or the dishes. This is because soaking your hands in water and harsh detergents dehydrates not just the skin but the nails too.
To help with this problem, wear gloves when you do those chores.
8. Don’t Pick Your Nails:
If you’re in the habit of biting your nails or peeling off old nails with your teeth, stop it. Additionally, avoid using your nails as tools e.g. to open a can of soft drink as it weakens and puts pressure on it.
Where a can opener isn’t readily available, you can use the edge of a spoon or the edge of a table.
