Whether you splurge for regular manicures or keep things simple, you want your nails to look their best. Healthy nails have a smooth surface and uniform color. However, weak nails may have ridges and bumps, break easily, peel or show white spots where they've been bumped or damaged. If your nails take on a yellowish cast or otherwise change dramatically in appearance, check with your doctor to rule out potential health problems.
Overuse
Your nails are strong, but if you use them for prying up stickers, scraping off goo or slicing through taped envelopes on a regular basis, it's going to take a toll on their strength, according to MayoClinic.com. To protect your nails, resist the urge to use them as tools. Wear vinyl gloves to protect your nails from water damage and chemicals when you're doing chores, housework or gardening.
Dehydration
Just like your skin, your nails can get dehydrated--and dehydrated nails are weaker than well-moisturized nails, according to Reader'sDigest.com. The website recommends massaging petroleum jelly, castor oil or even olive oil into your nails and cuticles every night to keep your nails moisturized and strong.
Artificial Nails
To apply artificial nails, your manicurist has to damage your nails enough for the glue to stick to them, which can lead to long-term nail weakness, according to Oprah.com. When the fake nails come off, the nails underneath tend to be very weak. Mitigate this weakness by letting your nails grow out with the fakes still attached. Clip the artificial nails until your real nails have completely replaced them.
Lack of Biotin
A biotin deficiency may result in brittle nails. Biotin is essential for building strong keratin, which is the substance that makes up your nails. You can find biotin in such leafy greens as chard and romaine, as well as in carrots, almonds and eggs. If you prefer supplements, MayoClinic.com recommends taking one that contains 2.5 milligrams every day.
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