Nail care tips you need to follow for healthy natural nails

There’s something special about being able to rock healthy, natural nails. For me personally it’s a form of self care and something that boosts my confidence. Whether you’re someone who loves to experiment with colour or even someone who just enjoys going “au naturale”, here are my top tips on maintaining natural nails at home.

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Nail strengthening treatments

To encourage nail growth you can try nail strengthening treatments. They contain a combination of protein & vitamins that help to replenish & restore lost moisture. Nail strengthening treatments also act as a protective barrier to the nail which is ideal if your nails are weak. My favourite nail strengthener is the OPI nail envy. It contains a blend of hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium which provide maximum strength to the nail. It now also comes in various shades so if you’re someone who doesn’t necessarily like a naked nail then you have plenty of options to choose from.

Cuticle oil is a MUST!

As we head into the colder months our skin can often appear more dry than usual so its super important to keep your cuticle oil to hand. We probably wash our hands/ use hand sanitizer several times throughout the day which means we’re constantly stripping the natural oils from our nails and skin. No one wants dry hands or cuticles…. right? Therefore applying cuticle oil is such an important step in nail care as it can help to protect your nail from trauma & also stimulate nail growth.

Protect your hands/nails!

Brittle, weak, or damaged nails are often caused by over exposure to harsh chemicals, repeated exposure to water or neglect. If you work with harsh chemicals or you’re washing up at home, try to wear gloves. I would also suggest cleaning underneath your nails and then thoroughly drying your hands after as this can help to prevent bacteria growth. I would also recommend to avoid picking/peeling things with your nails such as labels or even opening cans as this can cause trauma to the nail resulting in breakages.

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Manicure your nails regularly

Although it is great to sit back & relax whilst having your nails done, there’s actually a number of benefits to getting a regular manicure including helping with natural nail growth. A regular manicure provides a deep clean of your nails, cuticles and surrounding skin & ensures that your nails don’t get into a poor condition. It also helps with regenerating new cells which are essential when it comes to growing out healthy strong nails. Trimming your nails regularly is also key to having healthy nails as it makes them less prone to breakages. I know long nails might look or feel elegant but a shorter nail is much easier to maintain and can look just as classy. In fact I think a shorter nail gives more of timeless look and can make you appear put together without trying too hard.

Try supplements

Not getting the correct or enough nutrients can cause weak or brittle nails as well as maybe having some deficiencies. To help this you can always try taking supplements that contain iron, biotin, collagen or vitamin A. These nutrients are essential when it comes to having healthy nails as well as promoting the natural growth of them. Of course always check with your GP if in doubt.