A split or broken nail ruins the most careful manicure. Weak, brittle nails are prone to breakage, splits and tears. Nothing can immediately transform weak nails into strong ones, but careful attention to your nails and simple nail care techniques can help improve the health of your nails.
Causes of Weak Nails
Dry, brittle and weak nails may be a sign of health problems or nutritional deficiencies, says MySkinCareSite.com. Changes in the condition of fingernails may signify poor circulation, anemia, fungal infections, or deficiencies in iron, protein, vitamin C or zinc. Most often, exposure to water is the culprit. According to MotherNature.com, nails absorb up to 25 percent of their weight in water, which causes them to expand and then contract as they dry. Frequent expansion and contraction weakens nails.
Protect Nails
Because water is so damaging to nails, it is important to always wear gloves when washing dishes or using cleaning agents, recommends MotherNature.com. For dish washing, rubber gloves plus an inner cotton glove will keep nails dry and prevent hands from sweating. Moisturize nails each time you wash your hands. Lotions containing lactic acid or urea help nails retain moisture and prevent nails from becoming overly dry. Products with fragrances or alcohol can dry nails. Rubbing or brushing vegetable oil onto nails also helps them retain moisture. Improve circulation by massaging fingertips several times daily. Add petroleum jelly to the massage to moisturize nails.
Toughen Nails
A healthy, balanced diet provides the nutrients required for strong nails, says MotherNature.com. Biotin, a nutrient found in cauliflower, peanuts and lentils, helps nails grow strong and thick. Shorter nails are less likely to break or split than longer nails, so keep nails trimmed. File nails in one direction only, do not saw back and forth, and cut nails when they are wet and soft to avoid cracks.
Myths
Nail-strengthening products are ineffective, says MotherNature.com. Nail structure cannot be altered by topical products. Protein supplements are also ineffective, according to NailAidCares.com, because most people already get sufficient protein from their diet; adding more isn't going to make a difference. Soaking nails in gelatin solutions or water further weakens them, says NailAidCares.com. Gelatin is mostly water, which damages nails. Tapping nails on a hard surface does not strengthen nails. MotherNature.com explains that nails grow faster when stressed, but new nails are softer than older ones.
Things to Avoid
Acrylic nails damage the natural nail, according to BeautyTips.net, and may lead to fungal infections. Avoid using your nails as tools, for example, to open packaging, scrape off stickers or turn screws. Keep away from long nails filed to points. Shorter, softly rounded nails are strongest.
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