
Most women want their finger nails to appear stylish, sexy and on special occasions, sophisticated. Some are blessed with naturally strong finger nails that can stand up to a sink full of suds and the various other chores that might chip away at weaker nails, leaving them less than lovely. For those who may be searching for a salon look without the salon price, here are some tips to get stronger, healthier finger nails.
Add moisture to your finger nails
Moisture is a vital part of healthy hands and strong finger nails. Moisturizing your hands after every wash will help keep weak nails from becoming brittle and ultimately breaking, splitting and chipping. For extra moisture, apply a generous hand cream before bed and then seal in the moisture with a pair of cotton gloves. You’ll wake up with smoother hands and healthier nails.
Protect your finger nails
Harsh chemicals and cleaning supplies can make hands rough; irritate your finger nails and cause chipping and breaking. To help protect your hands and nails, wear rubber gloves when scrubbing the floor, scouring the sink, and whenever you use a disinfectant. For those with extremely sensitive skin and nails, wear gloves whenever contact with water is necessary.
Vegetable oil for stronger finger nails
If you thought vegetable oil was just for your frying pan—think again. Frequent vegetable oil rubs can make your hands and nails healthier and stronger. Massage the oil around the cuticles and into the nails.
Cosmetics that weaken finger nails
Some cosmetics can weaken and dry hands and nails. If your nails are brittle and prone to breaking avoid using nail polish removers containing acetone. Nail hardeners may be helpful, but avoid products with toluene sulfonamide or formaldehyde.
Vitamins for finger nails
You’ve heard it said “you are what you eat,” and to some extent it’s true. When the body lacks vitamins, deficiencies can be seen in the hair, skin and finger nails. Adding certain nutrients may help strengthen and improve the appearance of hair, skin and nails. Experiment with fish oil capsules or Biotin. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have a host of benefits for cardiovascular health, skin and more. Biotin, also known as vitamin B-7, can be found in foods like egg yolks, green peas, oats, walnuts, carrots and bananas, and is available as a supplement. It has been used to improve the condition of hair, and aid with skin and nails, though according to the Mayo Clinic, the results have not been proven. But for those who are curious, these supplements can be found at most pharmacies and grocery stores. A healthy diet, however, cannot be replaced. For strong, healthy finger nails, eat well and protect and pamper your hands.