In addition to aesthetic repercussions damaged nails often break easily causing discomfort and inconvenience leaving sharp edges behind. Damaged nails can be the result of drying out from too much exposure to moisture and cool dry temperatures, lacking of certain vitamins in the body, or trauma. Restoring nails to their once healthy state is more time consuming than it is difficult, but by giving a little extra care damaged nails can be turned into healthy ones.
Step 1
Trim your nails down to a short length so they won't break as easily and file them down with an emery board to round off sharp edges and prevent snagging. This should be done at least weekly depending on how quickly your nails grow.
Step 2
Dampen a soft cloth with olive or vegetable oil and gently massage your nails with it. Do this at least daily to help restore moisture to your nails.
Step 3
Wash your hands with a moisturizing soap and warm water to keep them clean and prevent nail infections without drying damaged nails out further. While it is important to keep your hands and nails clean, don't wash too frequently as this can dry your skin and fingernails out. Apply a moisturizing lotion to your hands after each time you wash and dry your hands.
Step 4
Take a daily biotin supplement. A daily dose of 2.5 milligrams of biotin, a form of vitamin b can help strengthen your nails.
Step 5
Apply a clear nail polish that contains protein to your nails to help strengthen them and keep them from breaking. Remove the nail polish weekly with a nail polish remover that is free of acetone and reapply it.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure that your shoes fit comfortably if your toenails are damaged to prevent them from becoming pressed up against each other causing discomfort and potentially letting them grow into surrounding tissue. Wear gloves to protect your nails from cold dry air. Wear rubber gloves with a cotton lining to protect your hands from excessive moisture which can dry out your nails.
- If your nails don't seem to improve through your own efforts or you notice any abnormalities such as curling or strange discoloration talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and find a solution.
Things You'll Need
- Emery board
- Soft cloth
- Vegetable or olive oil
- Moisturizing soap
- Biotin supplement
- Clear nail polish
- Non acetone nail polish remover
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