1. Don’t Use Them as Tools

One of the top tips for growing long nails and keeping them is to stop using them as a tool! I’m guilty of using them to open things but this bad habit will unquestionably damage and stress out your precious nails. No matter what length they are right now, stop treating them like tools in order to reduce the amount of stress on your nails and grow them out.

2. Don’t Be Caught Naked

When you’re growing your nails out and trying to strengthen them, make sure you never let your nails go bare! Bare nails are just asking for damage or breakage, so be sure you apply a strengthening top coat or a nail polish over your nails. Wearing a nail polish will help protect your nail should you accidentally bang them on something and prevent them from peeling or splitting!

3. Moisturize

According to the Mayo Clinic, an essential tip for growing nails is to keep them moisturized. They recommend applying your hand lotion to your nails and cuticles. However, you can also use cuticle oil or choose a hand and nail lotion with special ingredients that benefit nails and skin. Do this often so your cuticles are hydrated and you restore moisture to your nails!

4. Supplement

You’ve probably heard about the supplement Biotin, which has been known to increase length in hair and nails. Talk to your doctor about adding this supplement to your daily routine as there have been studies that show taking a daily dose of Biotin can help strengthen brittle nails and improve their overall condition!

5. Maintain

Nail guru Deborah Lippmann recommends weekly maintenance of your nails and cuticles in order to keep them healthy and strong! Don’t fret; you don’t have to have a standing appointment at your local nail salon in order to properly maintain your nails! Just make sure you properly trim, file and moisturize in order to keep them in good condition!

6. Protect

Another super important tip in growing nails and keeping them strong is to protect your nails. Your fingernails are very porous so they easily absorb water, which can weaken and dry them out. Also, wear gloves when washing dishes and working with household cleaners so you have a barrier of protection between your nails and any harmful chemicals.

7. Eat, Drink and Be Merry

This tip for growing nails isn’t going to suggest you hit up happy hour but you should be drinking plenty of water and filling up on protein. Staying hydrated will help ensure your nails stay moisturized and strong. Eating a healthy diet filled with protein will help strengthen your nails and improve their appearance!

Growing nails and keeping them long can be a bit of a challenge but it’s much easier when you follow these seven simple tips! If you’ve been having trouble growing long nails and keeping them, make sure you’re not abusing them or exposing them to harmful chemicals. If your nails are discolored, bleeding or they are thinning or thickening, consult your doctor or dermatologist. Do you have any tips on growing nails?