Whether you get manicures on the regular or you tend to go au naturel on your nails, it’s probably safe to say we all yearn for beautiful, healthy nails. If you do get bi-weekly manis or spend the time to DIY, it can be incredibly frustrating when a nail breaks. The reason is usually almost due to dry, brittle nails. If you find your nails are breaking often, don’t fret. Luckily there are some things you can do to improve the health of your nails and get the long, strong, and healthy nails you’ve been dreaming of. Here are some simple dos and don’ts to follow for strong, beautiful nails that don’t break.
Focus On Diet
As they say, you are what you eat. What you choose to put into your body can be directly reflected on the outside through the appearance of your nails as well as your skin and hair. Vitamin deficiencies often show up on nails in the form of changes in texture, color, and appearance. A healthy, well-balanced diet not only can improve your physical health but it can make your nails healthier, stronger, and more beautiful.
For optimal nail health, add foods packed with biotin into your diet like organ meats, eggs, fatty fish, sweet potatoes, and nuts and seeds. You can also take a biotin supplement to ensure you’re getting enough of this powerful B vitamin into your diet.
Use High-Quality Products
While diet is incredibly important for optimal nail health, what you choose to put topically onto your nails is equally so. Using non-toxic, high-quality products formulated with healthy ingredients can promote healthy growth and ensure your nails not only look great but are always strong and healthy.
Well known brands like SNS, OPI, and Gelish are safe choices. SNS actually formulate their products with nutrient-rich ingredients that nourish the nail beds and promote healthy, strong nails that don’t break. At your next salon visit, request not only a quality dip powder, gel, or lacquer, but pay attention to the bases and sealers used as well, as most of the nutrients will be applied during those steps.
Stay Out Of Hot Water
Having your hands in hot water too often can do a number on your nails, causing them to become weak and brittle which will ultimately break or peel, not to mention it can severely dry out your skin and cuticles. Try to wear gloves when doing the dishes and keep your hands out of the tub if you often take baths. However, if you do get into hot water, make sure to moisturize after with a good hand cream and apply cuticle oil to rehydrate your skin and nail beds.
Don’t Pick
While it can be so tempting to pick at a chipped or peeling manicure, DON’T do it, especially with gel polish. When you pick off your polish you can actually peel off a layer of your nail causing it to become thin, weak, and brittle. Instead, get your gel removed by a nail tech or use the correct at-home method to properly remove it and keep your nails looking their best.
Go Round
Square nails have a tendency to snag on things because of their sharp corners which can cause them to tear and break. To prevent this, opt for a more rounded shape like round, oval, or even squeal nails. The soft corners of these nail shapes are less likely to get caught on things.
