If you struggle with nail biting, picking, or constantly getting manicures, it can really damage your nails. Dealing with dry, weak nails is frustrating, especially if you have an important event coming up and want your nails to look nice. Wondering how to repair damaged nails? Let Nancy Nail find out the answer below.
Signs & Symptoms Of Nail Issues
Just like our eyes reflect our inner selves, our nails can reveal a lot about our health. They often signal the earliest signs of any health issues. Your nail technician should alert you if they notice any concerns.
If you observe your nails splitting, peeling, or constantly breaking, showing discoloration, or seeming thinner than usual, it’s essential to discuss this with your therapist during your next visit.
Common signs that indicate your nails might need a break include:
- Splitting: This refers to the nails developing vertical or horizontal splits, which can weaken the structure of the nail and make it more prone to further damage.
- Flaking: Flakes or layers of the nail may start to peel off, indicating a lack of moisture or a problem with the nail’s structure.
- Cracking: Cracks may appear along the edges or surface of the nail, potentially leading to discomfort or further breakage if not addressed.
- Peeling: The outer layers of the nail may separate or peel away from the nail bed, often due to dryness or damage.
- Dryness: Nails may become excessively dry, resulting in brittleness, rough texture, and increased susceptibility to breakage.
- Brittle texture: Brittle nails are prone to breaking, splitting, or crumbling easily, indicating a lack of moisture or essential nutrients.
- Softness: While nails should have some flexibility, excessive softness can indicate underlying health issues or overexposure to moisture, which may lead to bending or tearing of the nail.
How To Repair Damaged Nails?
Nail Strengtheners
Nail strengtheners are specifically formulated polishes aimed at restoring the structural integrity of weak and damaged nails. When applied, these products work by reinforcing the nails, making them less prone to chipping or splitting.
They create a protective barrier that shields the nails from external damage, such as environmental stressors or rough handling. Regular use of nail strengtheners can help improve the overall health and appearance of your nails, promoting stronger and more resilient nails over time.
Cuticle Oil
Cuticle oil plays a crucial role in nail care by moisturizing and hydrating the delicate skin around the nails, known as the cuticles, as well as the nail bed itself. This oil is typically formulated with a blend of natural vegetable oils, including avocado, coconut, and almond oil, which are rich in nutrients and vitamins essential for nail health.
Additionally, cuticle oil often contains Vitamin E, which helps nourish and protect the nails from damage caused by free radicals. By applying cuticle oil daily, preferably before bedtime, you can keep the nails and surrounding skin well-hydrated, preventing dryness and promoting overall nail health.
Moreover, the massaging action of applying cuticle oil stimulates blood circulation to the nail bed, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the nails, thereby promoting their strength and growth.
Nail Recovery Treatment
Although nail damage might be unpleasant, you can restore your nails to their former beauty by following the proper recovery technique.
Remove any old nail paint and gently file the nails to smooth down any rough edges before beginning the nail recovery process. This helps to prevent further injury and makes the treatment more successful.
The key to nail repair is hydration. Using a nourishing cuticle oil or cream will help hydrate the skin around your nails. Look for nail products that contain moisturizing and strengthening ingredients like vitamin E, jojoba oil, or almond oil.
Besides, you also consider using a protective nail hardener to reinforce weak nails. These formulas create a barrier that shields the nails from further damage while promoting growth. Apply the hardener according to the product instructions, usually as a base coat before applying nail polish.
Balanced diet
A balanced diet plays a crucial role not only in bolstering your immune system but also in nurturing the health of your nails. By incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods containing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals into your daily meals, you provide your body with the essential building blocks it needs to support overall wellness.
Moreover, prioritizing foods rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamin E, and zinc can specifically benefit nail health.
In addition to dietary measures, taking supplements formulated to support hair and nail health can offer further support. These supplements often contain key ingredients like collagen, keratin, and biotin, which help replenish the body’s natural reservoirs of proteins crucial for nail strength and growth.
This becomes particularly important as the body’s production of these proteins tends to decline with age, typically starting around the age of 25.
When Will You Notice Changes?
If you consistently use cuticle oil and heed your therapist’s recommendations, you may begin noticing improvements in your nails in about a week. It’s crucial to refrain from biting or picking at them and to be cautious with household cleaning products and hand sanitizer.
Given the current global pandemic, frequent handwashing likely means your nails and hands are drier than usual. Therefore, it’s important to carry a quality hand cream with you wherever you go.
Conclusion
In short, we covered on how to repair damaged nails? Repairing damaged nails is achievable with the right care and attention. By following the techniques outlined, you can nurture your nails back to health and enjoy beautiful, strong nails once more.