If we want to shine on the outside, we have to be healthy inside. Make sure you’re taking in a good balance of minerals, something that’s often overlooked. Nails, bones, and hair are made from the minerals we eat. Also, make sure your hormones are in healthy balance, particularly your thyroid (ask for a FULL panel). Lastly, if your nails seem weak no matter what you do, try not polishing them until the full length grows out. My fingernails split when I use polish on them, but my toenails are totally OK with polish - go figure!
One recommendation I have for strengthening nail health is to massage cuticle oil into your cuticles once or twice per day. Did you know, your nails’ growth centre is called the matrix and is situated under the skin, just above the visible part of your cuticles on each finger? Massaging cuticle oil in once/twice per day encourages blood supply to the area which will bring fresh nutrients to stimulate nail growth. Whilst it will not necessarily repair damage or trauma to the visible part of the nail (as these are already dead cells) it will certainly promote cell regeneration at the growth stage. Fun fact: A horizontal ridge/groove on the nail plate indicates a temporary trauma to the matrix which has interrupted the growth. This will eventually grow out. A vertical line/groove indicates permanent trauma and your nails will likely always grow like this.
start from the inside out. Upgrading your diet with nutrient-rich foods can make a world of difference. Incorporating collagen into your daily routine supports not only nail strength but also skin and hair health.
One thing I always recommend for strengthening nail health, especially after wearing gel nails for a while, is to have an oil nail bath for deep nourishment. Using natural oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil can be incredibly effective. Just warm the oil slightly and soak your nails for 10-15 minutes. This process helps to deeply hydrate and nourish your nails and cuticles, which promotes strength and flexibility. Doing an oil nail bath once a week can make a big difference in preventing brittleness and splitting. It’s a simple yet powerful way to keep your nails healthy and strong. Regularly soaking your nails in nourishing oils can improve their overall condition, making them look and feel better.