Strong nails do more than make your hands look pretty. The condition of your nails gives you a clue about your overall health and nutrition. If your diet is short on nutrients, the result could be weakened nails. Taking care of the root cause of weakened nails and maintaining your nails on a regular basis builds them up. A nail care routine helps you avoid brittle nails that break or split regularly.
Step 1
Care for your nails with regular trimming and filing. Trim your nails straight across and file the edges to get the desired shape. This prevents nails from breaking or tearing.
Step 2
Apply moisturizer to your nails every time you put lotion on your hands. Massage the moisturizer into the nails and cuticles.
Step 3
Wash your nails to get rid of the bacteria and fungus that can cause nail problems. Clean the top of your nails and underneath. Dry the nails fully after washing to discourage growth of various organisms.
Step 4
Avoid biting or picking your nails and cuticles, which can cause problems with the nail bed.
Step 5
Protect your nails while doing housework by using rubber gloves. The gloves are particularly useful when using harsh chemicals or when your hands are submerged in water for long periods of time.
Step 6
Paint your nails, either with a color with a clear coat, to protect your nails. Use nail polish removers without formaldehyde and acetone, which both dry out the nails.
Step 7
Take a biotin supplement daily, which can help increase the thickness and strength of the nails.
Step 8
Inspect your nails regularly for signs of a problem. Watch for yellowing, pits, indentations or curling. Check with your doctor if the problems don’t go away, or if they get worse.
