Pic credit: Gritty Pretty

The most frequent nail complaint we hear about is related to nail strength – peeling, splitting, fraying and damaged tips. The tip of the nail is the most fragile part, making it prone to damage through daily wear and tear. Also, overuse of synthetic nail treatments impacts nail health. So, it’s not surprising that we are often asked what the best things are that we can do for our nail health.

#1: Don’t pick, bite or chew nails

Don’t compromise vulnerable nails by picking at or biting your nails. This weakens the nail plate and can lead to fungal infections and long-term damage.  Invest in anti-nail biting solution and nourish nails regularly with a topical treatment. If you are prone to this bad habit, keep nails short as a distraction.

#2: Focus on repair

Go the extra mile to invest in nail health by setting aside time to nurture the nails from the inside out. Vitamins, calcium and minerals are particularly important to the growth and maintenance of strong, healthy nails. Use targeted treatment products to also feed the nail topically. If nails are particularly weak and flaky, apply a dedicated, penetrating nail hardener to improve nail strength and resistance to breakage. 

#3: Go for short nails

Pic credit: Dry By

Short nails are simply easier to clean and maintain. The longer the nail grows and the older we get, the drier nails become. The result is that the nail, having lost its "glue" (moisture and oil), starts to lift apart and the nail flakes. Only file short nails in one direction. Most people tend to file nails in both directions, the backward and forward sawing motion can cause nails to separate and fray. Stick to one direction, sweeping from one side to the other. Filing nails frequently encourages nails to be strong, just like trimming the ends of your hair.

#4: Household chores require gloves

Cleaning, washing and daily exposure to water and detergents requires gloves to protect nails and prevent damage. If you want to improve the lifespan of your manicure, gloves are essential. Hot water also has a drying effect on nails. Soft cotton gloves are also important to wear at night, after applying a thick hand cream for an intensive treatment.

Pic credit: Go Clean Co

#5: Make cuticle oil your best friend

Cuticle oil and healthy nails go hand-in-hand. Apply all over the nail, right down to and around the cuticles. It’s a great way of keeping the whole area nourished and preventing dryness. This is also ideal for making cuticles thinner and more malleable, a great product to apply to the nails overnight for moisture to soak in. Use a massage motion to apply the oil, stimulating blood circulation in the process.

#6: Protect with polish

Don’t forget to keep nails polished daily with a coat of protection, either a treatment product or manicure. Always use a polish that is porous and allows air and water to pass through to the nail plate naturally. Keep away from toxic formulations that are laden with chemicals.