17 Tips to Get Strong and Healthy Nails
When it comes to personal grooming and aesthetics, nails often don’t get the attention they deserve. Yet, strong and healthy nails can reflect good overall health, while weak and unhealthy nails can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies or underlying health issues. Below, we outline 15 essential tips to help you achieve strong and healthy nails, signs of healthy and unhealthy nails, and the best practices for nail care.
Signs of Healthy Nails
Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to understand how healthy nails should look. Here are some indicators:
- Smooth Texture: Healthy nails are usually smooth with no pits, grooves, or ridges.
- Color Consistency: They have a consistent color, typically a pale pink, with no discoloration or spots.
- Strength and Flexibility: Healthy nails are firm but slightly flexible. They should not break easily.
- Cuticle Health: The cuticles should be intact, without signs of peeling or infection.
Signs of Unhealthy Nails
Conversely, there are clear indicators of unhealthy nails that shouldn’t be ignored:
- Brittleness: Nails that easily chip, break, or peel are often a sign of weakness.
- Discoloration: Yellow, white, or green nails could indicate fungal infections or other health issues.
- Pain or Sensitivity: If your nails are causing discomfort, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider.
- Ridges and Pitting: These can be signs of health issues like psoriasis or other skin conditions.
Now that we have established what to look for let’s dive into the tips for maintaining nail health.
1. Keep Your Hands Clean
Hand hygiene is crucial for overall health and nail health. Regularly washing your hands helps eliminate dirt and bacteria that can harm your nails. Use a gentle soap and avoid harsh cleansers that can dry out your skin and nails.
2. Be Gentle on Your Nails
Taking your nails for granted is easy, especially when doing everyday tasks. Be mindful not to use your nails as tools (like opening cans or peeling stickers), which can lead to chips and breaks. Instead, use appropriate tools and treat your nails with the care they deserve.
3. Practice Good Nail Hygiene
Keep your nails clean and filed to prevent tears and snags. Clean under the nails regularly.
4. Remember to Take Care of Your Cuticles
Cuticles protect your nails from bacteria and other toxins. Rather than pushing or cutting them back aggressively, gently push them back after your shower when they’re softened. Use cuticle oil to keep them moisturized and healthy.
5. Use a Base Coat
Applying a base coat before your nail polish is a crucial step for preventing nail discoloration and damage. A base coat not only helps the polish adhere better but also serves as a protective barrier against stains and degradation.
6. Pay Attention to Polish Labels
Nail polishes can contain harmful chemicals, especially if they contain toxic ingredients like formaldehyde or toluene. Choose “3-Free” or “5-Free” nail lacquers, which are formulated without the most common harmful chemicals.
According to Google, OPI has maintained a 3-free score brand since 2006, having agreed to eliminate the “toxic trio” chemicals from its products. These chemicals are advised to be avoided during pregnancy.
My favorite nail polish brand is OPI. They offer a wide range of colors, an excellent base coat, and, best of all, their polishes are three-free, meaning they contain no formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), or toluene.
7. Use Strengthening Treatments
Consider using nail strengtheners or treatments that promote nail growth to help strengthen weak nails.
8. Limit Use of Nail Polish Remover
Frequent use can dry out your nails. Opt for acetone-free removers, and give your nails breaks between manicures.
9. Avoid Acrylics and Gels
If possible, limit the use of artificial nails, as they can weaken your natural nails.
10. Give Your Nails a Break
Your nails deserve time to breathe! Consider having at least one week each month without any nail polish or treatments. This helps prevent yellowing and allows your nails to restore their natural strength.
11. Moisturize Your Hands and Nails Regularly
Hydration plays a key role in nail health. After washing your hands, apply a nourishing hand cream and massage it into your nails and cuticles. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E for optimal hydration.
One of my favorite hand creams is L’Occitane’s extra gentle moisturizing lotion. Infused with organic verbena extract and lavender, it comforts and hydrates the skin quickly.
12. Limit Nail Exposure to Water
Prolonged exposure to water can weaken nails. Wear gloves when washing dishes or using cleaning products.
13. Load Up on Protein-Rich Foods
Your diet plays a significant role in the health of your nails. Incorporate protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, beans, and nuts into your meals. Proteins provide essential building blocks for nail strength and growth.
14. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Include plenty of vitamins and minerals, especially biotin, calcium, zinc, and protein. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and dairy can help nourish your nails.
15. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate your body and nails.
16. Consider Supplements
If you’re struggling with weak nails, consider adding supplements to your routine, like biotin, vitamin E, or collagen. These nutrients can support healthy nail growth and overall nail strength. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
I’m currently using biotin from Natrol, which promotes healthy hair, skin, and strong nails. It’s 100% vegetarian and tastes like strawberry!
17. Get Regular Check-Ups
Certain medical conditions can affect nail health. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help catch any issues early.
Conclusion
Strong and healthy nails are not just about aesthetics; they are an indicator of overall health and well-being. By incorporating these 17 tips into your daily routine, you can significantly improve the health and appearance of your nails. Remember to pay attention to the signs your body sends you—whether it’s brittle nails or unsightly discoloration—and act accordingly. Ultimately, healthy nails come from proper care, a balanced diet, and an understanding of how to treat them gently. Start your journey to healthier nails today! Your hands will thank you.
