How to fix damaged or broken nails: Expert shares 5 tips
People may not know that some common habits and beauty routines can impact the health of your nails.
These are just some of the bad habits that can make nails weak but there are ways to prevent this and fix them.
Insight from podiatrist Margaret Dabbs OBE, who owns the Margaret Dabbs London brand, can give you the best chance to save your nails.
How to prevent damaged or broken nails
Acrylic and gel nails
Acrylic and gel nails can cause some issues in their application and removal, according to Margaret.
Because the surface of the nail needs to be filed for acrylics to adhere properly, this can cause thin, weakened nails.
Meanwhile, the UV light used to cure gel nails can also cause “cell death” and even potentially increase the risk of skin cancer.
Margaret added: “Never try to remove acrylics or pick off gel nails yourself – you’ll almost certainly damage your nail in the process.
“You should get them removed in a salon – the bulk of the nail will be filed down, and the rest will be removed by applying cotton wool soaked in acetone and wrapped with aluminium foil.
“While this is a lot safer than trying to remove the nails yourself, it can still be damaging – acetone applied for a long period can weaken and dry out nails, especially if it’s a strong formula.”
The best way to prevent damage is to not wear acrylic or gel nails but if you can’t live without your treatments, Margaret has some advice.
She said: “Choosing a trusted salon that has proper hygiene practices is essential to make sure you aren’t at risk of bacterial infections or shoddy removal processes. The salon should be spotless, and your nail technician should follow important hygiene practices.”
“I recommend keeping acrylic or gel nails to a minimum, only applying for special occasions,” she continued.
“When you’ve had your nails removed, be sure to treat your hands and nails with a nourishing lotion and nail and cuticle serum to combat any dryness.
“A nail strengthening treatment is also a good idea. Look out for formulas that promise to harden your nails, while promoting growth and overall nail health for a beautiful, natural look.”
Biting your nails
Biting your nails can cause them to be jagged, sore and potentially ingrown, while at its worst you could get a bacterial infection.
In terms of preventing damage from this Margaret said: “Getting regular manicures – but ideally ones that don’t include the application of gel or fake nails – can deter you from biting your nails, because you’ll be less inclined to chew away at your beautiful, newly applied polish.
“The use of a home conditioning nail and cuticle serum will remind you to focus on nail health and act as a deterrent.
“It’s also a good idea to keep your nails fairly short to curb the temptation to bite them. Regular use of a high-quality nail file will help you maintain the perfect length, while promoting the general health of your natural nails. If all else fails, a bitter-tasting polish is a good way to break the biting habit.”
Bad diet causing brittle nails
Not eating enough foods with key vitamins and minerals can weaken your nails, so eating nutrient-rich items will help prevent damage.
Margaret said: “Salmon and eggs are two foods that are amazing for nail health.
“Incorporating them into your diet a few times a week will noticeably improve your nails. Magnesium and folic acid are also important to nail health, so load up on dark leafy vegetables like spinach.
“Nuts are also filled with healthy fats and vitamins, so they’re a great snack. Make sure they’re not salted or processed where possible – if you want to liven them up, eat them as part of a fruity trail mix and remember to stay hydrated, so drink plenty of water.”
She also recommended consuming plenty of calcium through healthy dairy sources.
Avoid using acetone-based nail polish remover
Acetone-based nail polish removers can dry out and weaken nails, especially if opting for harsh formulas, Margaret said.
She added: “Use a non-acetone nail polish remover. It may take a little longer to remove your polish than an acetone-based solution, but it’ll be so worth it for the health of your nails.”
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Use a nail strengthener
If your nails are already heavily damaged then Margaret recommends using a nail strengthener.
She said: “Applying a treatment twice weekly will bring even the most damaged, ridged, flaky nails back to life.
“In the meantime, you might want to consider protecting them from further damage – wearing gloves when you’re cleaning and applying a long-wear protective clear topcoat can prevent further damage as they heal.”