Healthy, strong nails are a sign of good care, but sometimes, daily habits can unknowingly cause damage. If you’re struggling with brittle, weak, or peeling nails, it’s time to evaluate your nail care routine. In this post, we’ll explore the top habits that damage nails and share how to fix damaged nails for long-lasting health and strength.
1. Biting Your Nails
Why It’s Harmful:
Nail biting is a common habit, especially when stressed or anxious, but it can lead to weakened and deformed nails. Biting causes micro-trauma to the nail bed, leading to potential infections and slower nail growth.
How to Fix It:
- Use a bitter-tasting nail polish designed to deter biting.
- Keep your nails trimmed short to reduce the temptation to bite.
- Replace the habit with stress-relief techniques, like squeezing a stress ball or using fidget toys.
2. Skipping a Base Coat
Why It’s Harmful:
Skipping a base coat when applying nail polish exposes your nails to harsh chemicals, leading to dryness, peeling, and discoloration. The base coat acts as a protective layer between your nails and the polish, preventing damage.
How to Fix It:
- Always apply a nourishing base coat before polish to protect your nails.
- Opt for nail-friendly, non-toxic polishes that contain fewer harsh chemicals.
- Use strengthening base coats with added nutrients to repair and prevent damage.
3. Overusing Gel and Acrylic Nails
Why It’s Harmful:
Gel and acrylic nails can be beautiful but overuse or improper removal can weaken your natural nails. The harsh chemicals and filing required for application and removal can thin out the nail plate, making your nails brittle and prone to breaking.
How to Fix It:
- Take breaks between gel and acrylic applications to let your natural nails recover.
- When removing gel or acrylic, soak them off properly to avoid peeling or scraping off layers of your nail.
- Use nail strengtheners and moisturizing treatments between applications to restore your nails.
4. Using Nails as Tools
Why It’s Harmful:
Using your nails to open packages, scrape off stickers, or pry things open puts stress on them, leading to chips, cracks, and breaks. This misuse can weaken your nails over time, making them more prone to splitting.
How to Fix It:
- Use actual tools like scissors or tweezers instead of your nails to perform tasks.
- Keep your nails trimmed short to reduce the risk of damage.
- Apply a hardening top coat regularly to strengthen your nails.
5. Skipping Moisturization
Why It’s Harmful:
Just like your skin, your nails need moisture to stay healthy. Skipping moisturization can lead to dry, brittle nails that are more prone to peeling and breaking. Dry cuticles can also lead to hangnails and painful cracks.
How to Fix It:
- Use cuticle oil or a rich hand cream daily to keep your nails hydrated.
- Avoid washing your hands with harsh soaps or wear gloves when using cleaning products to prevent further dryness.
- Choose hand creams with nail-nourishing ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, or almond oil for added moisture.
Conclusion
If you’ve been guilty of any of these habits that damage nails, it’s not too late to turn things around. By implementing these simple fixes and being mindful of how you treat your nails, you can restore their health and prevent further damage. Prioritize nail care in your daily routine, and you’ll notice stronger, healthier nails over time!
