Brittle nails that peel and crack can have you reaching for the acrylics, but your own natural nails can be beautiful with the right care and treatment. Dry nails that suffer exposure to chemicals or less-than-adequate nutrition become weak and don’t hold up to everyday tasks. To find the cure for brittle nails, look toward daily care and hydration, as well as prevention, so that your nails can stay strong and look beautiful both bare and decorated.
Cut Short
Once a brittle nail has split, there is no way to mend or fuse the nail back together again. The best way to start caring for your brittle nails is to cut away the entire damaged portion, says Cosmopolitan magazine. Much like trimming away split ends on your hair, cutting away your damaged, brittle nails gives you healthier nails to start with, allowing you to grow your nails longer.
Moisturize Daily
You should moisturize your nails every day, suggests Elizabeth Abel, M.D., clinical associate professor of dermatology at Stanford University School of Medicine. Massage some lotion or petroleum jelly into your nails or puncture a vitamin E capsule and drain it onto your nails. Soaking your nails in olive oil is also an effective way to keep them hydrated and smooth.
Wear Gloves
When handling certain household chemicals or completing jobs that could be harsh on the hands, it’s important to wear rubber or latex gloves to protect your nails. Your brittle nails could be the result of simply not protecting them when you are using your hands. You can purchase gloves at medical supply stores or in the housekeeping aisle of a supermarket; wear them while cleaning the house, washing dishes or completing jobs around the house.
Eat Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help your nails stay stronger. WHFoods.com notes that omega-3s hydrate from the inside out, resulting in stronger nails, shinier hair and even better skin. You can find omega-3s in fatty fish like trout and salmon, avocados, and nuts like almonds and walnuts. If you don’t like any of the omega 3-rich foods, take a fish-oil supplement.
Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover
Acetone nail polish remover can be harsh and drying to your nails. If you use nail polish remover often, switch to an acetone-free variety to protect your nails from becoming too dried out.
