The Best Way To Strengthen Brittle Nails

Dry, brittle nails can be caused by many things, from frequent gel manicures to dehydration. Here are a few ways to give your nail some much-needed TLC if they aren't as strong as you would like.

One easy way to strengthen your nails is to apply cuticle oil every day. "To have strong nails, they need to be healthy – and to be healthy, they need to be hydrated," Ama Quashie, session manicurist and founder of Ama salon, told Elle. "Cuticle oil works by hydrating the cuticle and nail bed, which is why it's such an important step in nail care, whether you're growing your nails or simply want them to look their best." You can buy bottles of cuticle oil in most beauty stores or use plain jojoba oil instead.

Being gentle with your nails will also help. Use a soft nail file instead of a glass one to prevent tearing your nails when tending to them. You should also switch to an acetone-free nail polish remover, which will still get the job done without drying out your nail beds.

If you aren't sure why your nails are brittle, consider taking supplements to help. "Pay attention to your diet," Amy Lin, the founder of Sundays, a nail care brand focused on wellness, told Mindbodygreen. "Your nails are made of proteins and naturally need a lot of vitamins."

Biotin, also called vitamin B7, has been shown to help nails stay strong and firm when taken regularly. Collagen is another supplement that can make your nails grow faster and reduce breakage.

A diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals is also important for healthy nails. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods to keep your nails strong. According to The Healthy, foods that are high in antioxidants like blueberries can protect your nails from damage caused by UV rays. Foods high in iron, like meat and leafy green vegetables, will keep your nails strong. Any nutrient deficiency can affect the health of your nails, so it is important to eat a variety of foods every day.