It is easy to pass off weak, wimpy nails as being a prisoner to your genetics. And while genetics certainly plays a part, you’re lifestyle choices play a much bigger role than you could ever imagine.
Here are 5 ways to boost your nail health/strength no matter who you are.
Moisturize With Olive Oil
This is a reminder that nails are living tissue, much like your skin. They can require regular moisturizing when subjected to harsh conditions, such as overzealous hand washing, cold weather, pools, and doing the dishes the old fashioned way. And while they do have nail moisturizers you can buy from fancy boutiques, rubbing them with cold pressed olive oil is all you really need to do.
Good Nutrition and Toxin Reduction
Your first defense against weak nails is to grow them as strong as possible in the first place. This is a combination of toxin reduction and good nutrition. The toxin reduction involves minimal chemical overload, including polish remover, glue (nail extensions) and gel paint. The only vitamin worth using for stronger nails is biotin, and it can be found by eating a combination of eggs, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
Proper Manicure Technique
Nails are weakened by trauma, which includes nail biting and saw filing. When you bite your nails, you leave your damaged skin susceptible to infection. Nails are also prone to cracking and splitting when their ends are damaged. A common cause of this damage is sawing a nail file back and forth across to give them shape. Try filing in only one direction for less edge damage.
Smart Hygiene
Nails may seem pretty resilient on their own, but they are just as fragile as their surrounding tissue. This is referring to the skin and cuticle. When you fail to take caution to protect the surrounding nails from damage and infection, the result could be catastrophic as far as the strength and appearance of your nails. This includes washing and drying your feet regularly, avoiding public water sources with bare feet (to avoid infection), and changing your socks when you’ve been sweating for prolonged periods.
Overzealous Lengths
Long nails are great, but excess length also leaves them more susceptible to damage. If you are in the process of rejuvenating weak or brittle nails, it is best to keep them short during this process so that you will have an easier time maintaining them using the tips above.