5 Secrets for Stronger Nails

From: 5-Minute Health BoostersUpdated: Mar. 20, 2019

No one really knows why we have nails, but whatever the reason, they make it easier to do many things, such as pick up small items. They also provide an external sign of health: weak, brittle nails often signal a nutritional deficiency. Follow these health-boosting tips to ensure healthy and stronger nails.

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1. Stronger Nails: Keep Your Nails Hydrated

Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly into your cuticle and the skin surrounding your nails every evening before you go to bed or whenever your nails feel dry. Not a fan of petroleum jelly? Substitute castor oil. It’s thick and contains vitamin E, which is great for your cuticles and promotes stronger nails. Or use olive oil – it also works to moisturize your nails.

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2. Stronger Nails: Dry Your Hands

After washing, dry your hands for at least two minutes before doing the dishes. Also, dry your toes thoroughly after swimming or showering. Leaving them damp increases your risk of fungal infection. Dry nails are stronger nails.

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3. Stronger Nails: Polish Your Nails

Polishing your nails, even with only a clear top coat, protects them. If you prefer colour, use a base coat, two thin coats of colour and a top coat. The colour should last at least seven days but should be removed after 10 days. Stronger nails are polished nails.

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4. Stronger Nails: Air Out Your Shoes

Be sure to air out your work boots and athletic shoes. Better still, keep two pairs of each and switch between them so you’re never putting your feet into damp, sweaty shoes, which may lead to fungal infections. Air out your shoes for stronger nails.

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5. Stronger Nails: Avoid Harsh Chemicals

You should try and avoid nail polishes and products that contain chemicals like formaldehyde or acetone for stronger nails. They can be very drying. Instead, use acetate-based nail polish removers instead.

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Originally Published: June 15, 2011