Nail Care

How to Strengthen Your Nails

We all know that long, strong nails are the very definition of #goals. But actually getting them to the point you desire before they break off into uneven pieces is much easier said than done.

Sign up to our mailing list via the footer to get the latest product drops, discounts, and more from Wella brands straight to your inbox.

To help we consulted our expert nail techs on how to grow nails, how to strengthen nails, and finally, what skincare to use.

SHOP ALL NAIL TREATMENTS & STRENGTHENERS

1. Invest in a soft nail file

You may have heard glass files are the way forward but while they're pretty, longer-wearing, and easy to clean, it pays to invest in a 'soft' file. We recommend the Edge White 240 File for a smooth finish and to prevent tearing or splitting your nails.

2. Try a Biotin supplement. Studies show that brittle nails that are prone to peeling and breakage could be a sign of Biotin deficiency. Supplement your diet with an extra dose of the essential B vitamin.

3. Say hello to Nail Envy® Nail Strengthener

Our special formula contains hydrolysed wheat protein and calcium to encourage growth. We recommend applying two coats to your bare nail, then applying another coat every other day for the best results. After a week, remove it, and start again. These extra layers of protection will also add some bulk to nails that feel thin.

SHOP OPI NAIL ENVY® ORIGINAL

4. Invest in a 4-way buffer. This genius tool smooths the nail plate out to make it more compact, bringing the surface nail layers together to add strength.

5. Nail your filing technique. Back-and-forth see-saw motions will only cause the nail to splinter, so always file in one direction, using long, swift but gentle strokes, we recommend starting from the outside edge and moving to the centre.

6. Even if you don’t have time for a full manicure, applying a hydrating and strengthening base coat can prevent the nails from peeling and becoming weak. We recommend switching your regular base coat for one coat of Natural Nail Strengthener, which is formulated to help your nails grow stronger.

SHOP OPI NAIL STRENGTHENER

7. Switch your nail polish remover to Expert Touch Lacquer Remover. It sweeps away even the darkest lacquer shades without the drying effects of harsh removers. The acetone in harsh removers is rough on fragile nails and can dry them out almost instantly - cue peeling, splitting, and those unsightly white, mottled marks.

SHOP OPI EXPERT TOUCH LACQUER REMOVER

8. Take a look at your diet, strong nails need plenty of vitamins and minerals. Consider adding more protein (meat, fish, lentils), biotin (eggs, salmon, peanuts), zinc (green beans, cashews), and iron (spinach, beef) to your diet.

9. Make sure your nails are in the correct shape for your hands as you grow them out. Your nail shape should follow your cuticle shape for easy strength and growth.

10. Moisturise. Moisturise. Moisturise.

Dry hands are a major problem when it comes to maintaining nail strength and health. That’s why we’ve created ProSpa Advanced Softening Gloves and Socks to hydrate and soften the skin. Both contain macadamia oil and shea butter to ensure your hands and feet are pampered and primed for the nail treatment they deserve.

11. Remember this: Healthy cuticles equal healthy nails. Stop picking, trimming, or manipulating your cuticles in any way. Use ProSpa Nail + Cuticle Oil daily to repair, nourish and moisturise. Dry, brittle nails will only lead to splitting and chipping.

12. Say goodbye to dry skin around your nails with the soothing and repairing ProSpa Exfoliating Cuticle Cream. Packed with white tea and essential minerals, it'll transform delicate skin, leaving it ultra-nourished and hydrated.

SHOP ALL OPI PROSPA