How to Strengthen Nails

By Eleanor Tucker

Healthy nails mean strong nails - and stronger nails don't just look better, they stay polished for longer, too. But how can you build up their strength? Read on for tips and product advice for hard-as-nails talons.

The way you treat your nails has a lot to do with how strong they are. Rubber gloves might not look very cool, but if you over-expose your hands to water it will weaken your nails - so wear gloves every time you wash up.

Abahna Mandarin & Sicilian Bergamot hand cream

Keep a mini-tube of hand cream, like the gorgeous Abahna Mandarin and Sicilian Bergamot Hand Cream, in your bag to reduce dehydration from hand-washing when you're out and about.

We all know beauty comes from within, but this is especially true when it comes to your nails. "Since nails are growing and replacing themselves all the time, they need a good supply of minerals in the diet," Henrietta Norton, Nutritional Expert at Nurture Skincare tells us. "Mineral-rich foods include lean meats, fish, eggs, grains, low-fat dairy, nuts and seeds."

Nurture Hair and Nail Strengthening Supplements

Diet is the best source of these minerals, but if your doctor thinks you may have a deficiency, try Nurture Hair and Nail Strengthener Supplements, which contain copper and a natural sulphur compound used by the body to build both nails and hair.

When you do your nails at home, make like a manicurist and file them in one direction only. Sawing at your nails, or buffing too vigorously, will cause splitting and peeling.

Spa Collection Ultra Smooth Intensive Hand and Nail Cream

Then slather on a product that both moisturises hands and strengthens nails, like Marks and Spencer Spa Collection Ultra Smooth Intensive Hand and Nail Cream, which contains pro-vitamin B5.

The cuticle is where nails are created so don't neglect this area: a nourished cuticle will grow a resilient nail.

Oils like Dr Hauschka Neem Nail Oil Pen will penetrate to the nail root, helping the development of strong and healthy tissue - and the lid of this one is designed to help push back and (gently) shape cuticles too.

Nail strengtheners that you paint on like polish can help toughen up your talons, but don't rely on them - use as an extra to good nail care and nutrition.

Pick a formaldehyde-free formula like Dr Lewinn's Renunail Sensitive Nail Strengthener, which has a flattering nude tint and gently hardens nails without making them brittle.