The good news is that we can always make changes to our lifestyle and habits to help strengthen our nails and get them in shape and place where we’d like. These tips can help you achieve and maintain strong nails. Adopting these tips into your daily routine, along with regular nail care, can make a great noticeable difference in the health and appearance of your nails over time.

Here are 12 tips that you can use to help strengthen your nails in no time.

1. Take a Biotin Supplement

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for maintaining strong nails. It helps in the production of keratin, a protein that forms the basis of nails, hair, and skin. Taking a biotin supplement can contribute to healthier nails, reducing brittleness and promoting growth. The recommended dosage typically ranges from 2.5 to 5 milligrams per day for adults, but it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Biotin supplements are widely available over the counter and are generally safe for most people when taken as directed.

2. Minimize Exposure to Water

Excessive exposure to water can weaken nails and make them prone to splitting and breakage. To protect your nails, wear gloves while doing household chores such as washing dishes or cleaning with detergents. Additionally, avoid prolonged soaking in hot baths or swimming pools, as water can cause nails to swell and become fragile. After exposure to water, ensure your nails are thoroughly dried to prevent them from weakening further.

3. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is really important for overall health “especially nails”. Dehydration can lead to dry, brittle nails that are more likely to break. Drinking an adequate amount of water each day helps to keep nails hydrated from the inside out. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider increasing your intake if you live in a dry climate or engage in strenuous activities that can lead to increased fluid loss.

4. Pay Attention to Your Diet

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is essential for strong, healthy nails. Include foods high in protein, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes, as protein is a building block of nails. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E, which play roles in nail health. Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fruits are excellent choices to promote nail strength and growth.

5. Be Careful About the Products You Use

Various products can impact nail health, so it's important to choose wisely:

• Nail Polish and Remover: Opt for nail polishes and removers that are acetone-free and enriched with nutrients like vitamins or oils to prevent drying out nails.
  
  
• Hand Sanitizer and Cleaning Products: These can be harsh on nails. Use gloves when handling chemicals and wash hands with mild soap and water afterwards.
  
  
• Shampoo: Ensure that shampoos are gentle and do not contain harsh chemicals that can weaken nails when they come into contact during hair washing.

By being mindful of the products you use, you can minimize potential damage and maintain stronger, healthier nails.

6. Avoid Using Gel or Acrylic Nails, If Possible

While gel and acrylic nails can enhance the appearance of nails temporarily, they can also weaken them over time. These treatments involve chemicals and processes that can dehydrate and thin out natural nails, making them more susceptible to damage and breakage. If you regularly use gel or acrylic nails, consider giving your nails periodic breaks to allow them to recover and strengthen naturally.

7. Give Your Nails a Break from Polish

Constantly wearing nail polish without taking a break for a day can prevent nails from receiving the necessary nutrients. Periodically removing nail polish allows nails to replenish moisture and nutrients from treatments like nail oils or moisturizers. This can prevent discoloration and maintain nail strength.

8. Keep Your Nails on the Shorter Side

Long nails can face breakage and damage more often as compared to normal or small ones. Keeping nails trimmed to a moderate length reduces the risk of snagging or breaking. Use a fine-grit nail cutter to gently shape nails and smooth any rough edges. Avoid cutting nails too short, as this can lead to discomfort or ingrown nails.

9. Don’t Use Your Nails as a Tool

Resist the temptation to use your nails for tasks such as opening cans, scratching off stickers, or prying objects open. Using nails as tools can cause them to bend or break, leading to potential injury or weakening of the nail bed. Instead, use appropriate tools like scissors, tweezers, or a bottle opener to avoid unnecessary strain on your nails.

10. Use Lotion on Your Nails

Moisturizing nails and cuticles helps to keep them flexible and less prone to cracking. Choose a hand lotion or cream that contains ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or vitamin E, which are known for their hydrating properties. Massage the lotion into your nails and cuticles daily, especially after washing your hands or whenever they feel dry.

11. Change How You File Your Nails

When filing nails, opt for a gentle, back-and-forth motion rather than a harsh sawing motion. Use a fine-grit nail file to shape nails smoothly without causing unnecessary friction or damage. Filing in one direction helps to prevent nails from splitting or peeling. Avoid using metal files, as they can be too harsh on nails.

12. Talk with Your Doctor

If you're experiencing persistent nail problems such as brittleness, discoloration, or slow growth, consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider. These could be signs of underlying health issues or deficiencies that require medical attention. Your doctor can provide personalized advice and recommend treatments or supplements to address your specific nail concerns.

The Bottom Line

Achieving stronger nails involves a combination of good nail care practices, a balanced diet, and avoiding damaging habits. By incorporating these tips into your routine and being mindful of how you care for your nails, you can promote healthier, stronger nails over time. Remember, consistency and patience are key to seeing improvements in nail health and appearance.