Manicures can make the nails appear healthy, feminine and even sophisticated, but they can also cause damage or even infection. Women who frequent the nail salon may find themselves with brittle nails due to the application of acrylic products. Others may have brittle nails due to a lack of vitamins or poor nail care and lack of moisture. Weak, brittle nails can be difficult to strengthen, but by avoiding certain products and taking care to pamper and protect your hands, you can improve the health and appearance of your nails.
Bedtime Remedy
Moisture is one of the most important components to healthy skin and nails. Moisturizing your hands often, and after every hand washing, is the key to maintaining a healthy level of moisture, which will keep nails from becoming brittle. For nails that are already brittle, applying a moisturizer (preferably a cream) at night, then sealing the moisture in by wearing cotton gloves to bed, is a simple bedtime remedy to restore your hands and nails while you rest.
Protection
Harsh chemicals such as cleaning products, bleach and disinfectants can cause your nails to become dry and brittle. Protecting your hands from such irritants can help improve the condition of your nails. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should protect your nails by wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when using soap and water for prolonged periods or when using harsh chemicals.
Vegetable Oil
Some cosmetic products can irritate the nails and cause redness. Products containing toluene sulfonamide or formaldehyde are an example. Additionally, nail polish removers containing acetone can be extremely drying, causing nails to become brittle with frequent use. Avoid these products and treat your nails to a vegetable oil rub, which can soften cuticles and help replace the moisture lost by frequent use of harmful cosmetics. Vegetable oil can be applied with a cotton swab and gently massaged on and around the nails for increased circulation and added moisture.
Biotin
A healthy diet is not only beneficial for weight management, it can help improve the appearance of your hair, skin and nails. Some foods and supplements can help you nourish your nails from the inside out. Biotin is said to help improve the condition of brittle nails. Foods that contain biotin include egg yolks, yeast, wheat bran, green peas, oats, walnuts and soybeans.
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