Fingernails are composed of keratin, a protein that compacts and grows from under the cuticle as new keratin cells are formed. Having dry, brittle fingernails can be a bothersome and sometimes uncomfortable condition. Fingernails that are exposed to the elements of daily living can become damaged. Making a few changes to your daily routine can add dramatically to the health of your fingernails, without any costly products or procedures.
Step 1
Moisturize your fingernails. Just like your skin, moisturizer will be most effective when applied after they've been in the water and dried gently. Rub the lotion or hand cream in thoroughly, taking some time to massage the moisture into your nail beds and cuticles. Be sure to apply moisturizer after your hands have been wet for a significant amount of time, as well as before retiring to bed for the night.
Step 2
Spend some time tying on the keyboard or playing the piano. Dr. Kechijian, associate clinical professor of dermatology and chief of the nail section at New York University Medical Center in New York City, says that exposing your nails to minimal amount of "trauma" when hitting the keys can actually strengthen and speed the growth of nails.
Step 3
Treat your nails with care. Do not expose your fingernails to unnecessary harsh chemicals, such as cleaners, detergents, or even polish remover. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning the house to protect your nails. Refrain from using a nail polish remover more than once each week. When polish chips, apply another coat or do a touch-up job instead of removing and starting fresh.
Step 4
Don't use your fingernails as tools. Nails are not meant to be used to pick, pull, or open things. If your nails do chip or break, trim or file your nails (after bathing or soaking them for a while for best results) instead of pulling of biting them off. Nails should be kept short and round at the tips, but square at the corners.
Step 5
Eat certain foods to strengthen your fingernails. Healthy proteins, like lean meat, low fat dairy, eggs, and nuts can help nails grow in strong since nails are made up of a protein. Omega-3 fatty acids, found commonly in fish, can also improve nail health. Eat avocados, olive oil, or almonds to get adequate vitamin E. Citrus fruits, broccoli, tomatoes, and certain berries can give you the recommended dosage of vitamin C. Milk, mangoes, carrots, or spinach can increase your intake of vitamin A. Vitamin H, known as biotin, can be found is supplement form and can also improve the health of your fingernails.
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