As nail care emerges as spring’s big beauty trend, strengthening your nails is a crucial step for the perfect mani-pedi season. Whether you prefer Lori Harvey’s micro-French tip or Nicki Minaj’s decorated, extra-long nails, healthy cuticles, nail beds, and fingernails are essential. “Nail health can affect the longevity of a manicure,” says celebrity nail artist Aja Walton. “Stronger nails are less prone to chipping or lifting, resulting in a longer-lasting manicure.”
What Causes Weak Nails?
“Weak, brittle nails are often the result of dehydration, poor nutrition, excessive water exposure, or medical conditions like thyroid issues or psoriasis,” Walton explains. Regular manicures are key to healthy nails, but improper techniques can lead to weak nails. “90% of my encounters with brittle nails are due to improper removal or application of nail enhancements such as gel color, gel extensions, acrylics, or glued-on tips.”
Lack of essential nutrients like biotin, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E can also cause brittle, discolored, or weak nails. Additionally, frequent exposure to cleaning products, acetone, and other harsh chemicals can damage nails. Nail biting and improper trimming can further impact nail health, while fungal or bacterial infections can cause discoloration, thickening, or nail separation. Aging can also naturally thin and weaken nails.
How to Tell if Your Nails Are Weak
Identifying weak nails can be challenging, especially under nail enhancements. “You should consider strengthening your nails if they are constantly peeling, breaking, or show visible signs of damage, such as ridges or splits,” Walton advises. Splitting is a tell-tale sign of weak nails, so it might be time to switch to a more tapered or rounded nail shape, as square nails can chip more easily.
How to Strengthen Your Nails
Recognizing weak nails is the first step; implementing a routine to rebuild them is the key to a healthy manicure. “My tips for strengthening nails include keeping the nails hydrated with cuticle oil, avoiding harsh chemicals, using nail strengthening treatments, and wearing gloves for chores,” Walton suggests. Additionally, avoiding excessive drill use and poor application techniques is crucial. “Don’t forget to indulge in a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.”
Products packed with ingredients like keratin, biotin, calcium, and vitamins A and E are essential for healthy nails. “My go-to picks are Essie’s Hard to Resist Advanced Nail Strengthener and Essie’s Hard to Resist in Glow & Shine, which also has a beautiful sheer pink tint,” Walton recommends.