14 Ways to Prevent Brittle Nails and Grow Them to Your Desired Length

According to statistics, nails grow an average of one millimetre in 10 days. For those with slower nail growth, we’ve got some tips. Expert advice will make your dream of long nails a reality!

Give up red nail polish

Experts warn that nail polish is a common cause of brittle nails and their discoloration. Red-colored nail polish is the most common cause of this problem. Those who’ve had a bright scarlet manicure know how yellow their nails are after the polish is removed. The conclusion is simple: if you’re trying to grow your nails, refrain from red nail polish.

Put some hair loss product on your nails

Hair loss products often contain minoxidil. Research has shown that this substance can accelerate nail growth. This is because minoxidil increases blood flow to the nails, which, in turn, delivers more nutrients and oxygen. As a result, the nails grow faster.

Arm yourself with garlic

Garlic contains selenium. This element promotes nail growth. Garlic can be used not only in food prep, but also applied externally by rubbing a cut garlic clove over the cuticles.

If you don’t want to bother with garlic, you can buy garlic nail oil or make it yourself. Sauté chopped garlic in olive oil on low heat for 10 minutes. Store the finished product in the fridge.

Use your non-dominant hand more often

Oxford dermatologists found that the nails on the hand injured in a rugby match grew slower than those on the opposite, healthy, one. Scientists have found an explanation for this. The blood vessels on the healthy hand were stimulated more often, so the nails received more nutrition and grew faster.

To make the nails grow evenly, use your non-dominant hand more often. For example, hold cutlery in that hand, or use it to make some art. In general, use both hands equally whenever you can.

Don’t trim the cuticles

Specialists advise against trimming the cuticles. Removing the cuticles completely leaves the matrix exposed to germs and bacteria. This can lead to a fungal infection, and then long nails will be a thing of the past. For healthy nails, moisturise the skin around your nails regularly. And for longer nails, gently push away the pre-softened cuticles with a special tool.

Check if your body has any deficiencies

An abnormally low nail growth rate can indicate deficiencies in the body. A lack of iron, calcium, vitamins C, B7, and B12 has a noticeable effect on the beauty of the nails and overall health. In this case, it’s advisable to see a doctor for necessary tests. The specialist will give advice on necessary dietary choices and supplements that will restore the reserves and accelerate nail growth. In the case of anemia, special treatment may be required.

Use a nail file on damp nails

Long nails are usually shaped with a nail file. This procedure can bring you closer to the coveted length. Proper filing will prevent nails from getting snagged and stop them from splitting. However, filing should be done on wet nails. This will make the nail plate softer and more flexible. Remember to work only in one direction to reduce the risk of snagging and unevenness.

Choose soft nail files

While abrasive nail files are durable and easy to care for, nail technicians recommend giving preference to the softer versions. These tools are much safer. You’re sure to avoid damaging your nails and you’ll be able to grow them to your desired length faster.

Rule out allergies

Allergies to nail polish components can be the cause of slow nail growth. The reaction can manifest itself as peeling and cracking of the nails. This is most often caused by the presence of tosylamide or formaldehyde resin in the nail polish. Experts advise choosing products with “cleaner” formulations. These do not contain formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, toluene, camphor or formaldehyde resin.

Enrich your diet with special supplements

For people who would like to improve their nail health, experts advise looking into collagen supplements. Studies have confirmed the effectiveness of taking collagen peptides. According to the results, taking bioactive collagen peptides orally once a day increased nail growth rate and reduced nail fragility.

Another supplement to look out for is vitamin K. Taking this vitamin has been proven to help in maintaining strong and beautiful nails. It accelerates nail growth, makes them stronger, and enhances their natural shine. You should only start taking supplements after consulting your doctor.

Give up nail extensions

Because of the inability to grow long nails naturally, many people go to a salon for nail extensions. Unfortunately, this is not the answer. Acrylic nails can damage your nail plate and weaken it. Resisting extensions will help reduce the brittleness of your natural nails.

Do exercise

Who knew that a lack of physical activity also slows down nail growth? Sure, lifting weights or boxing can easily damage your nails. But regular exercise does improve the body’s blood flow. This means that nutrients are sure to reach your nails and you’ll be able to boast a healthy nail length as a result.

Exfoliate your nails regularly

Regular exfoliation helps nail growth. Experts recommend using a special nail buffer once a week for this purpose. Simply go over your nails with this tool, without pressing too hard. As a result, the nail plate will be smooth and shiny. It won’t take long to notice the enhanced nail growth.

Go to a dermatologist

If you’ve tried all possible remedies but your nails just won’t seem to grow, you should consider visiting a specialist. Experienced dermatologists say that in some cases they employ heavy artillery and prescribe oral antifungals to speed up nail growth for patients with problematic nails.

Do you take care of your nails yourself, or do you go to a salon? And do you paint them, or do you prefer to not?