How to Treat Soft & Brittle Nails

How to Treat Soft & Brittle Nails
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If your nails break and split every time they start to grow, they may be soft and brittle. SallyHansen.com recommends that people with brittle nails develop a regular manicure regimen to gradually strengthen them over time. There are plenty of strengthening nail polishes on the market, but you also can change your daily habits to keep your nails growing strong. By resisting the urge to nibble on hangnails and ragged cuticles and implementing a few basic nail care strategies, you can strengthen your nails without spending a lot of money.

Step 1

Trim your nails regularly with sharp nail clippers. Dailyglow.com states that when allowed to grow long, brittle nails are more likely to tear and break. Clip straight across, then file off rough edges in one direction with a micro-smooth emery board.

Step 2

Take a daily calcium and vitamin B supplement to strengthen your nails, or add these nutrients to your diet in the form of lowfat dairy products and nuts.

Step 3

Soak your nails weekly in a small bowl of olive or other vegetable oil. Add a few drops of vitamin E oil for extra moisture.

Step 4

Give yourself a hand massage with vitamin E lotion or petroleum jelly. Massage from the palm of your hand toward your fingertips to increase circulation to the fingernails.

Step 5

Wear rubber gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to prevent cleansers and hot water from drying out your nails.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail clippers
  • Nail file
  • Vitamin E lotion
  • Olive oil
  • Bowl
  • Calcium and vitamin B supplements
  • Rubber gloves

References

Article reviewed by Stephanie Skernivitz Last updated on: Sep 27, 2010

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