Nothing is worse than trying to use nail polish on peeling or brittle nails. Your creative nail art inspiration can instantly fall apart if your nail plate is unhealthy or damaged.

If that sounds all too familiar, it's time to help your fingernails become stronger and thicker! ✨💪

At a Glance: 10 Ways to Strengthen Nails

1. Shorter nails are better than longer nails
2. Change the way you file your nails
3. Avoid nail polish removers with acetone
4. Eat a nutritious diet that promotes healthy nails
5. Stay hydrated
6. Take a biotin supplement
7. Keep your hands dry as much as possible
8. Avoid wearing acrylic nails
9. Use a nail strengthener
10. Talk to your doctor or a board-certified dermatologist

Keep reading to learn more!

See Related: 11 Gothic Black Valentine’s Day Nail Ideas

#1. Shorter Nails > Longer Nails

Shorter nails are less prone to breakage and peeling. If you struggle with weak nails, consider keeping them at a shorter length.

Long nails may be glamorous and sassy, but they are more susceptible to chipping and breaking.

#2. File Your Nails in One Direction Only

You might not think anything of the way you file your nails. After all, it's one of the easiest steps in nail care and nail health! However, all that back-and-forth motion with your nail file might be the thing that causing your weak or brittle nails.

Be sure to file your nails in one direction only, and avoid using excessive force.

#3. Use an Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover

It's time to ditch nail polish removers with acetone!

Acetone may be helpful for melting away the remaining traces of your nail polish, but it isn't the best thing for your natural nails. It can cause peeling, splitting, discoloration, and dryness.

Instead, opt for an acetone-free polish remover to minimize damage and maintain hydration in your nails.

Bonus: How to Remove Gel Nail Polish at Home: Gentler Methods

#4. Eat a Balanced Diet

Vitamin deficiencies can lead to weak nails since your nails don't have the nutrients needed to stay strong and healthy.

Eat a variety of foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, calcium, and protein, such as vegetables, eggs, and nuts.

#5. Drink Water!

When people say "drink more water," they say it for a reason!

One of the many reasons to stay hydrated is for your nails. Drinking water helps your nails retain moisture, which helps them resist breakage.

#6. Take a Supplement

Nail supplements are a great way to strengthen your nails. They deliver nutrients and proteins to your skin and nails, keeping them strong and healthy.

Consider one of the following beauty supplements:

Biotin

Biotin is one of the many B vitamins that help keep your hair, nails, and skin healthy and happy. It also helps your central nervous system function as it should.

In addition to eating biotin-rich foods, you can take biotin supplements to strengthen your nails.

Keratin

Your nails are made of a protein called keratin, which makes your nails strong and hard. When you lack the protein keratin, your nails can become weak and brittle.

#7. Keep Your Hands Dry

Soaking your nails in water can lead to thin or brittle nails.

Wear rubber gloves when washing dishes, using harsh chemicals, or doing household chores. When it's impossible to avoid water (such as in the shower or at your job), just be mindful of how long you let your fingernails soak.

#8. Avoiding Wearing Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails put strain and pressure on your nail bed, which can lead to weak and brittle nails. Avoid wearing acrylic nails when you can.

If you need to lengthen your nails, wear press-on nails or nail tips.

#9. Use a Nail Strengthener

A nail hardener or nail strengthener may help reinforce and fortify your weak or thin nails. These products contain chemicals that trap moisture, create stronger nails, and prevent future brittleness.

A prescription-strength nail treatment may be necessary in some cases.

#10. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

A healthcare professional may have more insight into the cause of your damaged nails. A board-certified dermatologist can examine your nails and see if there is an underlying health issue.

They may recommend things like prescription strengtheners or biotin supplements, depending on your nail health needs.

Keep Reading: 10 Cute and Cozy Snowflake Nail Ideas for a Cool Manicure

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People Also Ask

How can I make my nails stronger naturally?

For stronger nails, take a biotin supplement, use a hand cream or cuticle oil, wear gloves when washing dishes, and remove nail polish without acetone.

How can I increase the thickness of my nails?

For thicker nails, take a nail supplement with keratin or biotin that can strengthen your nails. It's also a good idea to eat a balanced diet with plenty of eggs, meat, fish, seeds, and nuts.

What vitamin am I lacking if my nails are weak?

You may be lacking B vitamins like biotin, iron, zinc, protein, or magnesium. Eating a healthy diet is a great way to ensure your nails, skin, and hair get all the nutrients they need!

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At Maniology, we believe your nails are opportunities for adventure, fun, and unrestrained artistic expression. Our nail stamping plates and nail accessories are here to help foster your self-expression in the hopes of building a community of individuality. For more nail tutorials, subscription box updates, and designs, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.