Do your nails look how you want them to? If not, you might not be giving them the attention they need. Here are some simple yet effective ways to strengthen your nails.
Start With Hand Care:
Taking good care of your hands is the first step toward strong nails. Use a hand scrub or exfoliator once a week and apply a nourishing hand cream daily. Look for creams that are free of harmful ingredients like formaldehyde and toluene, as these can damage your skin and nails.
Direct Nail Care Tips:
- Use Cuticle Oil Daily:
Apply a drop of cuticle oil above the cuticle and gently massage it into your nails and cuticles. This promotes nail growth and strengthens the nail plate. Ideally, use cuticle oil twice a day—once in the morning and again before bed. - Wear Gloves During Chores:
Protect your nails by wearing gloves when doing household chores. It might feel strange at first, but after a few days, you won’t even notice them, and your nails will thank you. - Soak Your Nails Weekly:
Give your nails a bath at least once a week to keep them hydrated and healthy. - Avoid Scissors—Use Nail Files:
Instead of trimming your nails with scissors, use a nail file—preferably laser or glass files. These types of files help seal the nail edges and prevent splitting, and they can be used in any direction. - Try Paraffin Baths in Cooler Months:
Paraffin baths are a great way to pamper your nails, especially during the off-season. They provide immediate results that can last about a week. - Dry Your Nails Properly:
After washing your hands, dry your nails thoroughly with a towel. While drying, gently push back your cuticles to keep them neat. - Eat a Balanced Diet:
Your diet should include enough calcium, phosphorus, and iodine. Taking vitamins can also support healthy nails. - Avoid Dry Manicures:
Always soften your cuticles with a cuticle remover before pushing them back or trimming. A dry manicure can damage your nails. - Use a Base Coat for Manicures:
When doing your nails, always apply a base coat before polish and finish with a top coat. Skipping the base coat exposes your nails to acetone, resins, and dyes in the polish, which can dry out and discolor them. - Maintain Proper Humidity:
Keep the air in your home from getting too dry by using a humidifier or placing water jars around. When outdoors in cold weather, wear gloves to protect your skin and nails.
By following these straightforward tips, you can achieve beautiful, strong nails that stay healthy and look great.
