Do you want your nails to be long, strong, and healthy? Have you ever tried growing them, only to see them break and look bad? However, there's no need to worry as many are dealing with the same problem. While there are numerous nail treatments and supplements available, you can naturally strengthen your nails with simple lifestyle changes and home remedies.
Natural Ways To Strengthen Your Nails
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Healthy nails start from within, so ensure you're consuming a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Incorporate foods high in biotin (eggs, almonds, and whole grains), vitamin E (spinach and avocados), and omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish like salmon) to promote nail strength and growth.
Stay Hydrated
Apart from maintaining a balanced diet, it is also important to keep yourself hydrated for overall health and nail strength. Drinking an adequate amount of water daily helps prevent nail dryness and brittleness. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your nails hydrated and supple.
Also Read: Redness And Swelling Due To Ingrown Toenails? Here Are Its Causes And Treatment Measures
Protect Your Nails
According to Dermatology and Therapy, exposure of nails to external irritants and allergens can also weaken them, causing harm to the tissues around the nails and diminishing their ability to provide protection. Frequent exposure to water and harsh chemicals, such as detergents and cleaning agents, can weaken your nails. Hence, wear gloves when performing household chores or working with chemicals to shield your nails from damage.
Avoid Excessive Filing
While filing your nails is essential for maintaining their shape, excessive filing or filing in a back-and-forth motion can weaken the nail structure. Instead, file your nails in one direction to prevent splitting and breakage.
Use Nail Strengtheners
Consider using nail strengtheners or hardeners that contain ingredients like keratin, calcium, or silica. These products can help fortify your nails and reduce brittleness.
Limit Nail Polish and Acrylics
Excessive use of nail polish and acrylic nails can weaken your natural nails. So, skip those manicures and allow your nails to breathe and recover. Also, use nail polishes that are free of toxic substances like toluene and formaldehyde.
Massage Your Nails
Regularly massaging your nails and cuticles with natural oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil, can improve blood circulation to the nail bed and promote nail growth. This simple practice can also keep your nails moisturised and less prone to splitting.
Also Read: Biting Your Nails? Know How It Can Affect Your Teeth And Gums
Trim Your Nails Properly
Trim your nails regularly to maintain a manageable length and prevent them from becoming overly long and prone to breakage. Use sharp, clean nail clippers and trim straight across, rounding the edges slightly to prevent ingrown nails.
Practise Good Nail Care
Don’t forget to maintain good nail hygiene by keeping your nails clean and dry. Refrain from using sharp tools to clean beneath your nails, as this may harm the nail bed. Instead, opt for a gentle nail brush and mild soap. Also, be gentle when pushing back your cuticles to prevent injury.
Take Biotin Supplements
If your diet lacks sufficient biotin, which is essential for nail health, consider taking biotin supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional. These supplements can help strengthen weak nails.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert if you face persistent nail problems.]