On average, healthy nails grow about 1/8 of an inch each month. But with the right diet and proper nail care, you can help speed the process.
1. Eat healthy. Vitamin B & E, Shea Butter, Biotin, Almond oil, Beeswax, fatty acids, calcium, iron and sulfur all aid in nail growth. Start by making sure that your diet contains nutrients like Vitamin B & E, shea butter, biotin, almond oil, beeswax, fatty acids, calcium and iron. (For instance, eggs are a good source of biotin, which not only promotes hair growth but also strengthens brittle nails.) When in doubt, take a hair, skin & nail vitamin supplement.
2. Wear gloves. Wear them when doing dishes or housework to protect your nails from harmful chemicals and overexposure to water. Water separates the nail plate, which can weaken nails and cause them to break, split or peel.
3. Moisturize twice a day, with lightweight products that penetrate deeply. I love my Lauren B. Beauty Cuticle Oil and Nourishing Hand Crème, which are almost as hydrating as a paraffin treatment but easy to tuck in your puse. Bonus: By rubbing them in, you boost blood circulation to the nails – another natural growth promoter.
4. File your nails in one direction: from the edges toward the middle. Using a back-and-forth sawing motion weakens nails over time.
5. Get – or give yourself – manicures often. They help exfoliate away dead cells and keep your nails well-maintained, so they’re less likely to snag or crack.
6. Beware acrylic nails. Ditto gel polishes and acetones that contain harsh, drying chemicals.
7. If you’ve suffered a bad manicure or have damaged nails, fear not: Our powerhouse botanical healers will ensure that your nails are worth showing off – with or without polish. Shop them here and learn more.