1. Keep Fingernails Dry and Clean

Keeping your fingers free of dirt and residue, such as chemicals from lotions and other products you might use around the house, can help prevent breakage. Washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water is also a good idea because it helps rid the nails of bacteria lingering on them.

2. Use Moisturizer and Hand Cream

Using moisturizer and hand cream can help your nails stay hydrated and healthy. There are plenty of good-quality brands on the market; you need to find one suitable for your skin type. Don't apply too much; a little bit goes a long way. Massaging the moisturizer into your nails and cuticles will help prevent cracking and peeling.

3. Apply a Protective Layer

A protective layer can be applied to your nails to protect them from damage and keep the natural moisture locked in. There are plenty of good nail polishes available at the drugstore, which will do a good job. A topcoat is also a great choice as it gives your nails a high gloss finish and ensures that they stay chip-free for longer. This can be done in places like the nail spa near you.

4. Eat a Well Balanced Diet

What you eat and drink directly affects the look and health of your nails. Your diet should consist of plenty of natural, unprocessed foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Avoid high amounts of sugar and caffeine as these tend to make nails brittle. It is also essential to drink plenty of water as this will help keep your nails hydrated from the inside out.

5. Trim and File Nails Properly

How you trim and file your nails can make a big difference in how healthy they are. When cutting your nails, always use a sharp pair of scissors or clippers and avoid rounding off the edges. This can help prevent the nails from splitting and breaking. Use a gentle motion when filing your nails and only file in one direction.

What Not to Do to Have Healthy Nails

1. Bite or Pick at Nails

This is probably the number one thing you should avoid if you want healthy nails. Biting fingernails can cause your teeth to become jagged and may lead to infection of the gums. Picking at your nails makes them ragged, dry, and brittle. If you have a habit of picking or biting your nails, you must work on quitting the habit, as it will help ensure that they grow into strong and healthy nails.

2. Wear Nail Polish Constantly

Many women wear nail polish daily because they love the look of polished nails. If you are one of these women, it is essential to know that keeping your nails constantly covered in polish can do more harm than good. Wearing nail polish can create a layer over your nails that prevents them from breathing and getting the essential nutrients they need. It is best to give your nails a break now and then and let them breathe.

3. Don't Use Harsh Care Products

Harsh care products such as nail polish removers, cuticle sticks, and detergents can all cause damage to your nails. Always use a mild soap when washing your hands and find a nail polish remover that is acetone-free (which can dry out the nails). Cuticle sticks tend to rip off layers of skin surrounding the nails, which can cause your nails to become brittle.

4. Pull off Hangnails

Hangnails can be a real pain, but the best way to deal with them is not to pull them off. This can cause the skin around the nails to become irritated and inflamed. Instead, gently clip off any hangnails with a pair of sterilized scissors. If you tend to get hangnails, it is a good idea to keep a bottle of hand cream or moisturizer nearby so that you can apply it as soon as you clip off the hangnail.

5. Ignore Problems with Your Nails

Problems with nails don't usually get better on their own; in fact, they can get worse. If you have an open cut or hangnail, it is best to avoid wearing nail polish until the area has healed completely. Don't ever put polish over broken or damaged nails, as this will only prevent them from growing out and make your nails look worse.

If you follow these tips and tricks, your nails should grow into healthy and strong nails that look great with or without nail polish. Some people try to make their nails stronger by taking an oral supplement such as biotin, but this is unnecessary. As long as you take good care of the nail bed, your nails should grow healthy and strong on their own.