If you're prone to weak or brittle nails, there's plenty you can do to make them stronger. Aside from some simple lifestyle changes (more on those in a minute), applying certain nail-strengthening products can help, too. According to Dr. Latanya Benjamin, M.D., the best nail strengtheners and hardeners will be free of formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, three chemical ingredients commonly known as the "big three," which are often found in nail polishes, nail hardeners, and nail strengtheners. All of the products featured ahead meet these criteria.
Keep in mind that caring for your nails doesn't stop at the nail itself. It also means caring for your cuticles, because “Keeping cuticles well-moisturized is one of the best ways to promote stronger, healthier nails," says Dr. Benjamin. She also suggests taking intermittent breaks from gel manicures and avoiding aggressive buffing, filing, and scraping, which can exacerbate nail brittleness and breakage.
When it comes to nail polish removers, choose one without acetone to avoid further drying out your nails. Lastly, wear gloves when working in hot water to protect your hands, and immediately follow up with moisturizer. And though most nail weakness is due to external factors, if over-the-counter and lifestyle fixes don't help, talk with your doctor to see if something else is going on.
Scroll on for five of the best nail strengtheners and hardeners you can buy on Amazon, all of which are big three-free.
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