Round, square, long or short it doesn’t matter how you like your nails as long as they’re healthy enough for you to be able to do whatever you like with them. Here is how to keep your nails long and strong.
1. Moisturize
Moisturizing your hands will keep your nails flexible and less likely to break if bent. Always keep a small hand moisturizer in your bag and use it throughout the day to keep your hands and nails soft and protected.
2. Apply Strengthening Nail Polish
Strengthening and lengthening nail polishes can do miracles to your nails in terms of growth and strength. Use it as a base coat before applying nail polish. It will strengthen your nails and protect them from the pigment in the nail polish that sometimes make them turn yellow or dark.
3. Use Oil or Vaseline for the Cuticles
At least once a week, apply almond oil, olive oil or Vaseline to your nails and cuticles. They give your nails intense moisturizing which decreases breakage, splitting and softens the cuticles.
4. File Every Week
Filing regularly reduces the risk of splitting and peeling nails. Always keep a small file in your purse to be able to quickly fix any small snatches before the whole nail breaks
5. Wear Gloves
if you wash the dishes, dish washing soap is very drying and removes all the oil and moisture from the nails leaving the vulnerable. Also, repeated wetting and drying of the fingernails can weaken them.
6. Let Them Breathe
Just like your body and skin, your nails need to breathe. Every week at least you should remove nail polish and let your nails breathe for a couple of days without nail polish to avoid nails turning yellow.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I prevent my nails from breaking easily?
- Keep your nails moisturized and avoid using them as tools to reduce breakage.
- What vitamins help strengthen nails?
- Biotin, vitamin E, and zinc are great for promoting strong and healthy nails.
- Is it better to trim or file nails to keep them long?
- Filing your nails gently in one direction helps maintain length and prevents splitting.
- How often should I moisturize my nails?
- Daily moisturizing, especially after washing hands, keeps nails hydrated and less prone to damage.
- Can nail polish help strengthen nails?
- Using strengthening base coats can protect nails, but give your nails a break from polish occasionally.
- Should I avoid using acetone nail polish remover?
- Yes, acetone can dry out nails, so opt for non-acetone removers whenever possible.
- How does diet affect nail health?
- A balanced diet rich in proteins and essential nutrients supports nail growth and strength.
- Are gel nails damaging for long nail health?
- Frequent gel manicures can weaken nails; allow recovery time between applications.
- How can I protect my nails during household chores?
- Wear gloves to shield nails from harsh chemicals and excessive water exposure.
- Is it okay to bite or pick at nails?
- Avoid biting or picking as this damages the nail bed and hinders nail growth.