Natural Nail Care How to Strengthen Nails Without Chemicals

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I am sure most of us have been there – dreaming of having strong, healthy nails that will not break. 

For every woman the ideal is to have naturally beautiful nails that look perfect with or without any nail polish. 

But, let’s be honest. 

The nail care market offers us a lot of choices in the form of nail polishes, treatments and fillers that can be found in every store, promising us miraculous results.

However they are all full of potentially harmful chemicals. 

In fact, we don’t need to apply those chemicals in an attempt at achieving strong and healthy nails. 

Let me reveal what methods can help you make your nails equally stronger and healthier only by using natural nail care.

Understanding Your Nails

Now, let’s ground our discussion from the tips and tricks with an understanding of what your nails are actually made of. 

Nails themselves are built up of a protein, called keratin, the same as hair and the outer layer of the skin.

It originates from the matrix that is the base situated beneath the cuticle layer. 

Normal nails are calloused, hard and do not contain any ridges or any other form of uneven surface. 

However, some factors such as diet, lifestyle and nail care practices impact the nail health and condition. 

Now let’s talk about some natural ways to keep those nails looking fabulous.

Nourishing from Within: The Role of Diet

Hydration Is Key

First things first—hydration. 

Just like the rest of your body, your nails need plenty of water to stay hydrated. 

Dehydrated nails are more prone to brittleness and breakage. 

I always recommend keeping a water bottle handy and sipping throughout the day. 

If plain water isn’t your thing, try infusing it with some fresh fruits or herbs for a little flavor kick!

Nail-Strengthening Foods

This is probably the best adage ever when it comes to nails: “You are what you eat. 

Certain nutrients play a vital role in strengthening your nails:

  • Protein: The nails are made of keratin which is a form of protein hence taking a protein balanced diet is advisable. Specifically the food that comes under this group are lean meats, beans, nuts and seeds.
  • Biotin: One of the B-vitamins that many people should consider taking is this one because it promotes hair and nails growth. Some of the examples of biotin containing foods are egg, almonds, sweet potatoes and spinach.
  • Zinc: Zinc deficiency can lead to white spots on your nails and overall weakening. Include foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and fortified cereals.
  • Iron: The nails can be brittle and ridges if there is insufficient iron in the body. Increase it with red meats, spinach and lentils present in your meal plan.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are available in fish products such as salmon and in walnuts and are very effective in improving the nails and the cuticle moisture from within.

The Importance of Proper Nail Care

Gentle Filing and Trimming

I think one of the worst things that most people do is that they end up being very rough with their nails. 

Regardless of whether you are filing or cutting, be very cautious. 

It will be better to use a fine-grit nail file and file in one direction only in order not to split the nails. 

Of course, let me not forget to inform you that cutting your nails to a reasonable length makes them less prone to be broken.

Keep Your Cuticles Intact

I cannot stress this enough about that! 

So you should know that your cuticles are there for a reason. 

They protect your nails from infections. 

They should not be trimmed to avoid developments of infections and weak nails, but rather should be washed with warm water and gently pushed back when they are soft. 

If you think you require some cuticle action, try using a natural cuticle remover or soak your nails in warm water with a few drops of essential oil.

Natural Oils and Moisturizers

The Magic of Natural Oils

Many of us are unaware but our nails and cuticles are definite areas where some extra moisture can do a lot of good. 

Here are some of my favorite natural oils:

  • Coconut Oil: Coconut oil also has moisturizing properties so if applied regularly on the nails will reduce nail peeling as well as nail ridges. For instance, you only need to rub a little of the product and apply it on your nails and the cuticles during the day.
  • Jojoba Oil: It is similar to the natural oils in our skin. Therefore, it is perfect for nails’ health. One more advantage of using this oil is that it is hypoallergenic. Among others, it contains vitamins E and B which are excellent in promoting the growth of nails.
  • Olive Oil: Everybody knows that it is used in cooking but there are so many other ways it can be used. Since olive oil absorbs into the nail bed and cuticles properly it takes longer time for the moisture to evaporate.
  • Argan Oil: A bit of a luxury, but then very filling to eat, so satisfying in that way but worth it for its nourishing effects. It contains antioxidants and is rich in fatty acids which help in keeping our nails hydrated and strong.

Moisturize!

This is an enemy that you have to avoid especially when trying to grow healthy nails. 

Like your skin, the nails and the surrounding skin also requires a good moisturizing once in a while. 

One remedy that I believe in is using a moisturizing hand cream, or some other natural oil at night, and wearing cotton gloves. 

And voila, you’ll wake up with softer hands, and even stronger nails.

Avoiding Common Nail Care Mistakes

Say No to Acetone

I understand that, it is something that everyone likes to have – a new manicure. 

However, there is nothing better than an acetone-based nail polish remover, but one thing you need to know is that they dry out your nails. 

This they do to your detriment since they remove all the natural oils from your nails, thus putting your nails at a higher risk of breaking. 

However, use a remover that does not contain acetone and probably contains other natural elements such as aloe vera or glycerin.

Don’t Use Your Nails as Tools

We have all been in one way or another in a position to have used our nails to open cans, stickers or even typing on a computer. 

That will lead to severe consequences in the long run. 

Take care of your nails and use your hands for those tasks or real tools instead of nails.

Limit Exposure to Water

It must sound funny, but while water is wonderful for your nails, excessive exposure to the same leads to their weakness. 

Water weakens and softens nails. 

Anytime your nails are wet, they swell and subsequently withdraw when dry, stripping off the outer layer. 

While doing dishes or cleaning, the nails should be protected from extremely wet and hazardous cleaning solvents, and hence, wear gloves.

The Power of Natural Treatments

Tea Tree Oil for Nail Health

Tea tree oil is a perfect remedy if your nails are brittle or have turned yellow, and you think it might be an infection’s fault. 

All you have to do is dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with some other oil like coconut oil for example. 

It’s best to apply the solution onto your nails, three to four times a week. 

Together these components may prevent bacterial and fungal infections that result in nail problems.

Lemon Juice for Nail Brightening

If your nails are in desperate need of a color boost because of dirt or polish, lemon juice can come in handy. 

You can treat your nails with lemon juice by rubbing them with a soaked cotton pad. 

It is possibly like a natural bleach that gives you a natural, gentle bleaching to remove the stain.

Woman soaking her hands in bowl of water and flowers, Spa treatment and product for female feet and hand spa, massage pebble, perfumed flowers water and candles, Relaxation. Flat lay. top view.

Holistic Approaches to Nail Care

Stress Management

Much as this may sound irrelevant, stress has a way of causing breakage on your nails. 

Too much stress causes such habits like nail biting or picking which makes your nails brittle and fragile. 

It may sound obvious, but generally keeping a healthy & balanced lifestyle with stress relief techniques such as yoga, jogging or knitting will have a positive knock on effect on your nails.

Gentle Nail Care Routine

It is important that having a tender nail regimen be developed. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  1. Cleanse: Soak your hands in lukewarm water mixed with a mild soap.
  2. File and Trim: Shape your nails but only file in one direction.
  3. Moisturize: Put on some hand lotion or healing oil on your hands especially the cuticles.
  4. Protect: Natural breathable nail lacquer can be applied to give added layer of protection.

Regular Nail Maintenance and Check-Ups

Listen to Your Nails

In fact, nails are an important part of your body that can tell a lot about your systems’ performances. 

Slow changes which are easily ignored like the color change, increase in size or development of a split requires the attention of a dermatologist. 

Nail issues could be symptomatic of certain systemic diseases, therefore, it is always safe to get them checked.

Routine Maintenance

Like any other part of the body, nails also need occasional attention. 

It is advised that you should take treatment of your nails two or three times per week. 

Such simple things as putting some nourishing oil on them, filing them or just letting them breathe after the polish can definitely pay off in the future.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Natural Nails

And that’s it, dearest readers! 

A detailed walkthrough to improve your nails’ appearance and health from within without using chemicals. 

Please do not forget that it takes time, correct diet, optimum water intake and correct nail care to gain the maximum healthy nails. 

By adding these natural methods to your routine, you will be able to give attention to your nails and treat them naturally hence giving them the natural look and feel you desire.

So, ditch those chemical-laden products and embrace the beauty of natural nail care.

The result will be just amazing!

Until next time, stay healthy and happy!

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Author
Lindsey is a professional nail and make up artist, specializing in special occasion nails and make up. She is based in Utah, US and owns a small beauty salon with her business partner. She loves writing about the art and craft of nail artistry and is excited about discovering new nail trends.

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