Nail Care Tips for Long and Strong Nails

As an individual, your fingernails say a lot about who you are. That’s one of the reasons that people can spend hundreds of dollars on their nails at a salon every month, after all. Shorter nails that are precisely trimmed say something different than long, elegant nails, and the choice you make will have an impact on how other people see you.

While acrylic nails are an option that some people end up using, others might be interested in getting healthier nails in general, whether or not they’re planning on going in for regular manicures. If you’re interested in getting stronger nails that will look great regardless of whether you show off your natural nails or if you go to a nail technician, here are some great tips to consider.

Try aloe vera for special care

If you’re interested in giving your nails special care, you might be interested in adding aloe vera to your nail care regimen. Just make a paste by boiling aloe leaves until they form a gel, or purchase aloe vera gel at your local supermarket or drugstore. Apply the cooled paste to your nails to keep them healthy. This paste can provide a natural barrier that keeps the nails strong, reducing the risk of breakage and moisturizing them successfully.

Moisturization and hydration

Hydrated nails will grow more quickly and more healthily than dry, brittle nails. It’s important to give your nails adequate moisture, whether you’re using options like cuticle oil after using nail polish remover or you’re soaking your fingernails in olive oil or coconut oil for 15 minutes a day. If your nails are especially brittle and dry, you could consider adding plastic gloves after applying moisturizer to allow your nails to soak in them.

Supplements and diet

Keeping nails healthy is all about ensuring that you have the right nutrition to support your health. That’s one reason that some people may take dietary supplements and additional supplements, like keratin supplements, as part of their beauty routine. Here are a few important vitamins and minerals for healthy nails:

• Folic acid
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B7

Remember, a healthy diet is generally important for nail strength and overall beauty; an unbalanced diet may have impacts far outside of just your nail health. If you’re worried about a potential vitamin deficiency and you want to get help with a well-balanced diet, it’s a good idea to see a board-certified dermatologist to ask your questions about weak nails and supplements that might be helpful.

Trimming your nails correctly

When it comes time to trim your nails, never bite them. Biting your nails damages them, which can make it harder for them to grow more beautifully. Biting your nails can also damage your teeth. Instead of biting your nails, consider carrying a nail clipper with you, so if you find yourself biting your nails, you can trim them carefully instead. You can also use a nail file to shape your nails.

Avoiding harsh chemicals and other harmful elements

It’s also important to reduce the amount of time your nails are in contact with harsher chemicals and harmful products. That may include switching to an acetone-free remover for your nail polish, for example, or making sure you wear rubber gloves when you clean. Not only can this help with nail health, but it can also reduce your risk of bacterial infections and other negative impacts on your skin and body.

A better nail experience overall

Whether you currently have brittle nails or you’re just trying to avoid the issues that can come along with weakened nails over time, these tips can help you create a better nail experience for yourself. If you’re interested in getting professional care for your nails, you might be interested in the salon services from Evergreen Beauty Services. Our nail artist students can give you the beautiful nails you’re looking for while also suggesting nail products for stronger, healthier nails.

FAQs: Nail care tips for long and strong nails

How do I use a nail file?

To make sure your filing is helping your nails stay strong, it’s important to use a nail file correctly. Most experts suggest switching to a glass nail file for best results; a classic emery board can still be helpful, but you may need to replace it more frequently. Cut your nails to the same length, then file each one individually, starting from the outside and moving to the inside in long strokes rather than filing back and forth in a see-saw motion.

What are the biggest signs of healthy nails?

Healthy nails should be strong enough to retain their shape, even when you press them against a firm surface. They should not splinter or bend limply when you press on them. Healthy nails should also be pink on the nail beds and white on the tips, and there should also be a white half-moon area, called a lunula, at the base of the nail bed.

When should I see a cosmetic dermatologist or other nail expert?

If you think your nails indicate a potential underlying health concern, it’s very important to talk to an expert rather than trying to fix the problem on your own. If your nails are extremely pale, blue, or yellow, there are horizontal lines underneath the nails, especially dark lines, or your nails separate from the skin around them, then it’s also a good idea to pursue expert assistance.