If your nails have always been week, short and stubby, treat your fingers with more respect. The way you cut, moisturize and paint your nails may make your nails harder and stronger, which can help them grow. In some cases, weak nails may be the sign of a more serious health condition, particularly if your nails are opaque in color. See your doctor if this is the case. Otherwise, you can strengthen soft nails at home using over-the-counter and home remedies if your doctor approves.
Step 1
Take a multivitamin that contains iron, suggests Dr. Donnica Moore, co-chair of the annual national Congress on Women's Health. Soft, weak nails may signify an iron deficiency. Do not take additional iron supplements without consulting a doctor first.
Step 2
File your nails straight across instead of rounding them, recommends the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Rounding the nails may weaken them and cause them to break more easily.
Step 3
Moisturize your nails at least once a day with hand cream, recommends Dr. Audrey Kunin, a dermatologist, on the "Good Housekeeping" website. Keeping your nails hydrated will help prevent breakage and reduce hangnails, which weaken the foundation of the nail.
Step 4
Paint nails with an over-the-counter nail hardener. A nail hardener infuses the nails with vitamins, minerals and moisture, and it adds strength to the nail. You can purchase a nail hardener at the drugstore or grocery store.
Step 5
Apply clear nail polish to strengthen nails. Whether you get a manicure or apply the nail polish yourself, a layer of nail polish will help harden weak nails.
Things You'll Need
- Multivitamin with iron
- Nail file
- Hand cream
- Over-the-counter nail hardener
- Clear nail polish
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