As we get older, we’ll start to notice that our nails become increasingly brittle. That’s because brittle nails are caused by ageing, long-term use of nail polish and nail polish remover, frequent exposure to water, exposure to chemicals, dehydration, excessively dry environment, nutritional deficiencies and some kind of trauma.
Imagine what our body has gone through and what we’ve subjected our nails to all these years.
There are plenty of products that can help you but if DIY is more your style, here are seven home remedies for stronger nails you can try…
1. Coconut Oil
The saturated fat in coconut oil is very nourishing for weak and brittle nails. It will also prevent many kinds of nail infections.
How: Slightly warm some coconut oil and apply it on each nail. Massage gently and thoroughly for five minutes. Follow this remedy two to three times daily.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is loaded with nutrients that are healthy for your nails, such as vitamins, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Plus, it has malic acid and acetic acid that can help fight nail infections.
How: Mix equal amounts of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water in a small bowl. Soak your nails in this solution for a few minutes. Immediately after, gently push down the cuticles. Do this once daily and within a few days your nails will become much stronger.
3. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a great remedy to keep your nails moisturised and hydrated. It will also help strengthen and nourish your nails and cuticles.
How: Break open a vitamin E capsule to extract the oil and massage gently on your nails for five minutes to help increase circulation to the nail bed. Repeat daily before bedtime for one or two weeks to notice a change in your nails. For added benefits, you can also take vitamin E capsules orally.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree is a powerful antiseptic which helps fight infections and treat discoloured nails.
How: Mix one-half teaspoon of vitamin E oil and a few drops of tea tree oil. Rub this solution on each of your nails and massage gently for a few minutes. Leave on for 30 minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water. Pat dry and apply a moisturising lotion. Do this twice a day for a month.
5. Sea Salt
Sea salt has many healing minerals that can help strengthen brittle nails as well as soften cuticles and add a brilliant shine to your nails.
How: Mix two tablespoons of fine grain sea salts in a small bowl of warm water. Add two drops each of wheat germ oil and frankincense, myrrh and lemon essential oils. Soak your nails in this solution for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, pat dry and apply a hand cream. Do this two or three times a week for good results.
6. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can help to strengthen and improve the condition of brittle nails as well as brighten your nails.
How: Mix one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and three tablespoons of olive oil in a small bowl and heat it in the microwave for a few seconds until it feels warm to the touch. Apply to your nails using a clean cotton swab and wear gloves. Do this daily before going to bed and leave on overnight. Do this for two to three weeks.
7. Beer
Beer has selenium, potassium, phosphorus and biotin that can help make your nails strong and healthy.
How: Heat one-quarter cup of olive oil until it is warm to the touch. Mix it with one-quarter cup of apple cider vinegar and one-half cup of beer. Soak your nails in this mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. Follow this remedy once or twice a week.