How To Strengthen Nails

Photo of person with multicolored nails running them through greenish threads by Y Z on Unsplash

Updated 2024.08.08. This post contains affiliate links, we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our qualifying links.

Wondering how to make your nails stronger and thicker? 

Looking for the perfect nail strengthener you can buy? 

Believe it or not you can make even lifelong weak nails stronger with just a little bit of love, care and attention. 

When you strengthen your nails, they can grow longer if you want them to, and they become more resistant to breaks, peeling and splitting. 

Improved nail texture and surfaces can create a smoother base for your manicure, along with a prettier nail bed to look at.

If you are interested in strengthening your nails or growing them out, it is possible.

Below, learn five easy tips for stronger nails.

Photo of hand with painted nails touching rough textured stone-like surface by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

1 - Avoid exposing your nails to water for extended periods

When nails are exposed to water for long periods of time or to chemicals in water, such as during house cleaning, this can make nails more susceptible to splitting and cracking. 

A simple solution to stronger nails is to wear gloves when washing dishes or doing chores. Also, keep them out of the water when soaking in the tub or pool for long periods of time.

2 - Use a nail strengthener or strengthening base coat

One of Sally Hansen’s first strengthening products, Hard as Nails, released in 1957, is a clear strengthening treatment that is still on the market today. 

You can apply strengthening treatments like this to clean, dry nails alone or as a base coat. Another great strengthener is OPI Natural Nail Strengthener. Beauty Secrets Hardener can also be used alone or as a base coat and comes in a gorgeous round bottle. With repeated use, you can notice results.

3 - Shape your nails weekly

Implementing a weekly nail care routine, in which you file, shape and oil your nails can shave off minor snags before they form into larger tears, splits and breaks. 

Think about prepping your nails for a manicure, which includes shaping, on a schedule, even if you don’t do the color lacquer - just coat them with a strengthener to finish.

4 - Consider a biotin supplement

Biotin is a well known nail strengthener. In one study, 91% of participants taking 2.5 mcg of biotin for 5.5 months noticed firmer, harder fingernails. 

You can get biotin on Amazon. It doesn’t have to be mixed with anything else to work, it just needs time - around five to six months of continued use to notice results. 

5 - Avoid applying upward torque to the underside of the nail tips

Lifting boxes, opening cabinets from underneath, picking off labels. 

Anything that applies upwards pressure to the underside of the nail tip can create breaks and potential fissure lines for later. 

You want to especially avoid any pressure on your nail tips when the hands are wet, as nails are softer when wet, such as right after you get out of the shower.

Photo of hand with painted nails touching rough textured stone-like surface by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels text overlay How To Strengthen Nails

So to recap, to strengthen your nails:

1. Avoid submerging your nails in water for long periods of time

2. Add a nail strengthening treatment to your nail surface

3. Shape and care for your nails weekly in a manicure prep routine

4. Consider taking a low-dose biotin supplement

5. Avoid applying upward pressure to the underside of the nail tips

These are just a few of the nail care tips you can use to improve your nail’s strength and resistance to breakage. Think about adding one at a time to your routine and keep the ones that make the most sense for you.

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Other Articles You May Enjoy:

• How To Stop Nails From Peeling And Chipping

• 5 Tips for Growing Long, Strong Healthy Nails

• 3 Ways To Repair A Broken Natural Nail At Home

• How To Care For Your Cuticles

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