He Put a Ring on It…. How Do I Keep My Nails Beautiful for My Wedding?
We all want strong, thick, beautiful nails but sometimes it seems that, just going about our daily lives, we are damaging our nails rather than strengthening them. Most what we do, from washing our hair to filing at work to cleaning our homes weakens and dries our nails. Our beauty experts offer the following advice for making sure that your nails are in tip top condition when your husband-to-be slides your ring on your finger.
7 Tips for Stronger Nails
- Watch the water. Believe it or not, some people absolutely love watching dishes (can I get a “holla”) but all that water isn’t good for your digits. Wear gloves when you wash dishes, and don’t soak in the bath tub (or Jacuzzi) for too long. If you must indulge, keep your nails outside the water (clasping that glass of red wine, perhaps?) for most of your tub time.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. We can’t say this enough….hydration is key for beautiful skin, hair, and nails. Drink lots of water throughout the day (we suggest half of your body weight, in ounces, so 130 pounds is 65oz of water), and you’ll feel and look better, all the way down to your hydrated cuticles and nails. A balanced diet that includes plenty of protein will also help improve your nail health.
- Keep your nails short. If you’re nails are weak, consider cutting them shorter while working to make them stronger. Shorter nails are less prone to breaking. This is because there are fewer exposed edges to tear and less surface area where water and chemicals can be absorbed. Just be sure to file your nails in one direction. Don’t saw back and forth – this can cause your nails to split and peel.
- Creams and cuticle oils are your friend. Dry cuticles can lead to hang nails, cuticle picking and even peeling. Don’t cut your cuticles—which, when done incorrectly, can be painful and could lead to infection —use cuticle softener to gently push them back, and apply cuticle oil regularly to keep them soft and moisturized. We love Mavala Cuticle Oil (available at Ulta) because it absorbs quickly, is moisturizing, long-lasting and has a great scent. It is definitely worth the price! Hint: A little goes a long way.
- Avoid alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Alcohol-based sanitizers can be especially drying for your nails. Wash your hands with soap and water. After, follow up with hand crème or cuticle oil to keep your nails and cuticles in pristine condition.
- Be careful when cleaning. Why clean? Just hire someone to do it!! But if your bank account won’t support the added expense, wear gloves as chemicals and detergents can weaken your nails.
- Strengthen with a Supplement. Taking 2.5 mg (2,500 mcg) of Vitamin B-7, or Biotin, daily will increase nail thickness and reduce splitting. If you prefer to steer clear of supplements, biotin is found naturally in cauliflower, beef liver, eggs and fish.