All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
I’m not exaggerating when I say that I’ve barely seen my bare nails in eight years.
Getty Images
My latest adventure inmanicure trends: dip powder.
All in all: Just another way to conceal my natural nails.
As I was filing off the leftover residue, I realized two things.
One: nail technicians have one of the hardest jobs in the world removing this shit was not easy.
My natural nails are a true disgrace.
In fact, using the word damaged would be an understatement.
It’s time to get them back in decent condition because I want myhealthy nailsback.
So, how exactly does one do that?
That said, genetics, medical conditions, and age can also affect the strength of your nails.
“Unhealthy-looking nails may be able to tell you about a bigger issue with your overall health.”
Lastly, simple daily habits can cause gradual damage.
Keep your nails shorter.
Just as yourhair needs a trimto grow and appear more healthy, so do your nails.
But if your nails are already feeling brittle, Boyce suggests filing as an extra-gentle method of trimming.
Consider what’s happening inside your body.
Making adjustments to your daily diet canstrengthen nailsand help improve their appearance.
Dr. Idriss recommends getting enough protein, calcium, zinc, andvitamin Ato keep those nail beds strong.
“Raised ridges can also indicate malnutrition,psoriasis, or a thyroid problem,” Marmur explains.
Avoid prolonged contact with harsh soaps.
Meyer’s Clean Day Liquid Hand Soap, which smells like freshly-squeezed lemonade.
With all this frequent sanitizing and cleaning, your hands are likely going toget dried out.
That’s wherehand creamscome in.
“Moisturizing our nails on a daily basis can definitely help strengthen nails,” says Dr. Idriss.
“I always suggest massaging upwards from the cuticle in a very gentle fashion.
They contain hydrating ingredients, strengtheners likecollagen and keratin, and exfoliating acids to remove surface damage.
Do nails need to breathe?
I know my technician is going to be impressed with my nails once I return to the salon.
