7 Ways to Make Your Nails Grow Stronger and Longer

Soft and brittle nails can be a huge problem. No matter how much you try to grow them, they will keep breaking unless you provide them with the proper care.

And we at Bright Side know that strong and healthy nails are always desirable, so we collected 7 tips to make them look better than ever.

1. Don’t wear nail polish all the time.

A common misconception among women is that you should wear nail polish all the time, since it creates a layer that protects nails. Even though this may sound logical, studies don’t support this claim. Dermatologists suggest that having painted nails for a long period can allow chemicals in the polish to seep into the nail and cause discoloration, splitting, and peeling. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should completely give up colorful nails, but taking a break from polish every now and then would be beneficial for their overall health.

2. File regularly, but don’t use nail clippers.

Our nails can get damaged and break if we don’t cut them often. However, it’s important to make a good choice when choosing the right tools for nail care. Clippers are probably the easiest to use but not the best as they can cause cracks and splits. Instead, opt for a file because it doesn’t put that much pressure on your nail.

Pro-tip: Always file your nails in one direction, back and forth movements will fray your nails.

3. Don’t start cleaning until you put your rubber gloves on.

People who work in a lab can confirm that wearing latex or rubber gloves for several hours daily can damage your nails. However, the same thing can happen when you don’t wear them — at least while you’re doing housework. It’s not just that detergents contain harmful chemicals, but long exposure to water can weaken them as well. Therefore, invest in a good pair of rubber gloves and don’t forget to wear them the next time you wash dishes.

4. Eat more rice.

Our health largely depends on our food choices, and so does our appearance. One of the essential vitamins for nail growth and strength is vitamin B, which can be found in rice. Thus, eating rice several times a week might help you strengthen your nails.

5. Avoid nail hardeners.

It probably sounds contradictory, but a nail strengthener will not help your nails in the long run. The ingredients in it will indeed initially harden the nail. However, with time it can dry them out and nails will become brittle and prone to breaking.

6. Rub your nails with Vaseline.

Vaseline is the most common type of petroleum jelly and definitely a must-have in every nail aficionado’s nail care product collection. It acts as a moisturizer for your nails as well as for your cuticles. Applying it daily might help brittle nails by strengthening them and creating a protective layer.

Pro-tip: For best results, leave it on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing.

7. Soak your nails in fresh squeezed orange juice.

Foods rich in vitamin C are crucial for overall health and, of course, nail and hair growth. However, this vitamin can also be applied externally. For faster nail growth, try soaking your nails in orange halves or fresh orange juice for 10 minutes every day.

Pro-tip: Citric acid from orange juice can dry out the nails, so make sure to rinse the nails well and moisture them with a cream afterward.

How do you take care of your nails? Which products or tips do you use for optimal results?