Do your nails constantly chip, crack, or peel before reaching their desired length? You’re not alone in seeking remedies to strengthen your nails. Brittle, weak nails are a common frustration due to constant handwashing, gel manicures, and everyday wear and tear.
The good news is that you don’t need to hit an expensive salon to address these issues. Mother Nature provides a treasure trove of ingredients and simple techniques to incorporate into our daily routine for noticeable improvements.
This guide explores 10 powerful at-home remedies to strengthen your nails and promote healthy growth. These scientifically proven remedies are not only practical and budget-friendly, but they’re also super easy to fit into your daily routine.
We’ve got everything from simple oils you probably already have in your kitchen to quick soaks that can make a huge difference. By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to give your nails the love and care they deserve—all from the comfort of your home. Let’s get started!
Why are my nails weak?
Before we explore remedies, it’s essential to understand why our nails might be struggling in the first place. Several factors can contribute to brittleness and dryness. Some of them include
- Frequent handwashing
- Excessive exposure to water.
- Deficiency of vitamin E, vitamin B7, and iron.
- Exposure to harsh chemicals
- Using nails as tools
- Biting nails
Addressing these underlying issues, alongside implementing remedies, will promote long-term nail health. Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day, minimize exposure to harsh detergents, and opt for acetone-free nail polish removers.
Remedies for stronger nails
Keep your nails on track with these remedies.
1. Olive Oil Massage
When it comes to NATURAL NAIL CARE, Olive oil is a powerhouse. Packed with benefits, it can transform weak, brittle nails into strong, healthy ones. It can also help with Dry, cracked, and painful cuticles by making them easier to manage; reducing the risk of hangnails.
Olive oil is also rich in fatty acids, which act as a natural emollient. This helps lock in moisture, preventing dry, brittle nails prone to breakage.
Every day, apply a few drops of olive oil directly to your nails and cuticles and massage it gently. This helps improve circulation and promotes nutrient absorption.
2. Coconut Oil Massage
Coconut oil is not just a staple in the kitchen; it’s also a fantastic natural remedy for nail care. Thanks to its beneficial properties, coconut oil can work wonders on your nails.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid and caprylic acid, which have strong antifungal and antibacterial properties. These compounds help protect nails from infections like fungal nail infections, which can cause brittleness and discoloration.
Additionally, coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer. It penetrates deeply into the nail and cuticle, providing essential hydration. This helps prevent dryness and breakage, promoting overall nail health and strength.
Perform a Coconut Oil Massage
- Take a small amount of extra virgin coconut oil (about a teaspoon) and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm it until it’s melted and slightly warm to the touch.
- Dip your fingertips into the melted coconut oil. Ensure each nail and cuticle is generously coated with the oil.
- Use gentle, circular motions to massage the oil into your nails and cuticles for about 5-10 minutes.
- Let the oil sit for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and Moisturize with your favorite hand cream
Overnight Treatment: For an intensive treatment, apply coconut oil to your nails and cuticles before bed, wearing cotton gloves to keep the oil from rubbing off. This allows the oil to work its magic overnight, leading to even better results.
3. Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
Combining lemon juice and baking soda is a popular DIY nail remedy that actually works. How?
Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, which acts as a natural bleaching agent. It can remove stains and discoloration from your nails leaving them whiter and brighter. Baking soda, with its mild abrasive properties, helps in gently exfoliating the nails and cuticles.
How to Prepare and Use the Lemon Soak?
Disclaimer: Lemon juice is acidic and can irritate the sensitive skin around the nails. If you have open cuts or cracks near your cuticles, it can cause stinging or burning.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- Juice of one fresh lemon
- A small bowl of warm water
STEPS:
- Mix the baking soda and lemon juice until it forms a paste. The mixture will fizz initially, which is completely normal.
- Add the paste to the bowl of warm water.
- Stir well until the mixture is evenly distributed in the water.
- Soak your nails in the mixture for about 10 minutes
- Finally, rinse your hands with lukewarm water and apply a hydrating hand cream or nail oil to keep your nails and cuticles moisturized.
For best results, use this soak once a week. Overuse can lead to dryness due to the acidic nature of lemon juice. If you notice any irritation or increased sensitivity, reduce the frequency of use or discontinue the treatment.
4. Biotin Supplements
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is a vital nutrient for your nails. It basically helps in the production of keratin, the protein that works as a structure of nails.
The study even showed:
“A 25% increase in nail thickness in patients with brittle nails who took biotin supplements.”
Incorporate Biotin into Your Diet
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The recommended daily intake of biotin for adults is 30 micrograms. However, for those specifically looking to improve nail health, higher doses (2.5 milligrams per day) are more effective.
Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Food Sources of Biotin:
- Eggs, particularly the yolk.
- Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds are great sources.
- Peanuts, soybeans, and lentils contain high amounts of biotin.
- Salmon and tuna are not only high in biotin but also provide omega-3 fatty acids.
- Foods like oats and barley are good sources of biotin.
- Spinach, broccoli, and sweet potatoes are biotin-rich veggies.
The benefits of biotin for nails seem to be most pronounced in people with a biotin deficiency. If you have a healthy diet and no underlying conditions, your body likely gets enough biotin naturally.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another natural remedy often used for nail health. ACV could be helpful if you suspect weak nails are due to fungal infections. Due to its acidic nature, it also regulates the pH level of your nails.
Always dilute ACV with water before using it on your nails. A good ratio is typically 1 part ACV to 2-3 parts water.
ACV Nail Remedy Steps:
- In the small bowl, mix the apple cider vinegar and warm water in a ratio of 1:2. Stir it well.
- Submerge your fingertips in the solution for about 8-10 minutes.
- After soaking, rinse your hands with lukewarm water and apply a hand cream.
Avoid if your nails are already dry. Similar to lemon juice, ACV can be drying, especially for already dry or damaged nails. This could worsen brittleness and make them more prone to breakage.
6. Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, biotin, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. All of these nutrients are essential for building strong and healthy nails.
How to Apply Flaxseed Oil to Nails:
Flaxseed oil treatment barely takes up to 20 minutes to complete.
- Slightly warm flaxseed oil.
- Gently rub the oil onto your nails and cuticles using a cotton ball and ensure each nail is thoroughly coated.
- Spend a few minutes massaging the oil into your nails and cuticles. Massaging helps improve blood circulation and ensures that nutrients are effectively absorbed.
- Allow the oil to sit on your nails for at least 10–15 minutes. Again, you can leave it overnight.
- Rinse your hands with lukewarm water and pat them dry. Follow up with your favorite hand cream to lock in the moisture.
Include flaxseed in your diet as well. Sprinkle some on yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies, or consume a tablespoon of oil daily (consult your doctor for dosage).
7. Garlic Nail Treatment
Studies have shown that allicin, a compound found in garlic, has effective antifungal and antibacterial effects. In addition to that, the sulfur compounds in garlic can strengthen the keratin in your nails, making them less prone to breaking and splitting.
How to Use Garlic for Nail Care:
Garlic nail care is a straightforward and effective remedy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Take a fresh garlic clove and peel it. Crush or finely chop the garlic to release its juices.
- Rub the crushed garlic directly onto your nails and cuticles.
- To penetrate properly, allow the garlic juice to sit on your nails for about 10-15 minutes.
- After the garlic treatment, rinse your hands with lukewarm water to remove the garlic smell. Follow up with a good hand cream to keep your nails and skin moisturized.
Adding garlic to your diet can also support nail health from the inside out. Garlic is rich in nutrients like vitamins B6 and C, manganese, and selenium, all of which contribute to healthy nails.
If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of crushed garlic to the inside of your wrist and wait for 24 hours to see if there is any adverse reaction.
8. Epsom Salt Soak
Epsom salt is packed with magnesium, which is great for your nails. It softens the skin around your nails, making them easier to manage during manicures or pedicures. This allows for easier trimming and pushing back of cuticles.
Prepare Epsom Salt Soak:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and dissolve a tablespoon of Epsom salt in it.
- Let your nails soak in the solution for about 15 minutes to allow the magnesium to work its magic.
By softening the skin around the toenail, Epsom salt soaks may help relieve discomfort caused by ingrown toenails.
9. Tea Tree Oil Application
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil to avoid skin irritation. Apply the diluted mixture to your nails and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
Tea tree oil has been shown to have strong antifungal properties that help combat nail infections. Some studies suggest tea tree oil might have antiseptic properties that could help prevent minor infections around the nails.
Do a patch test. Tea tree oil can cause allergic reactions in some people. Do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to your nails
10. Gelatin Nail Soak
Gelatin is loaded with proteins that are essential for strong, healthy nails. Regular gelatin soaks can help improve nail strength and encourage growth.
- Fill a bowl with warm water and dissolve a tablespoon of gelatin powder in it. It’s recommended to use unflavored gelatin.
- Let your nails soak in the gelatin solution for 10-15 minutes to absorb the beneficial proteins.
Don’t overdo this remedy. Soaking nails for extended periods can weaken them by making them softer and more prone to breakage.
Summing it up:
Be consistent (2-3 times a week for over a month)with these remedies to achieve stronger and healthier nails. If there is an underlying issue, these remedies might not work
If so, consider consulting a dermatologist. Ensure you get enough essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health, including nail health.
If you’re unsure which remedy to try for general care, I highly recommend the OLIVE OIL TREATMENT. It’s simple, effective, and suitable for most nail concerns. Stick with it, and you’ll see the difference.
