Whether you’re the type who’s always on top of the latest nail trends or prefer a short, simple mani, strong, healthy nails are always a good thing.
But actually getting them to the point you desire before they break off in uneven pieces is easier said than done. Daily wear and tear leads to hangnails and snags, and polish and gel changes can weaken your tips over time. So how to actually grow nails out and keep them long? We chatted with the pros to gather the best advice for stronger, healthier nails.
1 MAINTAIN AND HYDRATE YOUR CUTICLES
Remember this: healthy cuticles equal healthy nails. “The main habit to break is picking, trimming or manipulating your cuticles in any way,” says dermatologist and nail specialist Dr Chris Adigun. Cuticles act as both a seal and a barrier, keeping in hydration and keeping out possible infections. “Your cuticles are the last line of defense, acting as a shield to block the spread of bacteria from moving in on your nail,” celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann explains. “Cutting them can potentially irritate or infect your nail.” To avoid both, gently push them back instead of trimming.
2 SKIP THE NAIL HARDENERS
While it may seem like a good idea to reach for a hardener that promises stronger nails, such products can actually do more damage than good. “They often cause nails to become so hard that they crack and break more easily,” Dr Adigun says.
3 MOISTURISE MORE
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