Home remedies for brittle nails

Like hair fall and skin issues, an improper diet and a lack of nutrients contributes to brittle nails. A balanced nutrient-rich diet would be beneficial for making nails stronger and healthier.

Nail care is a part of self-care. Taking about 10 minutes daily to nourish the nails will not only add to the beauty of one's hand but also make one feel healthy and confident!

Often times, our nails lack moisture becoming dry and brittle due to repeated washing and drying of fingernails. However, soft and brittle nails which break easily, are caused by too much moisture being overexposed to detergents, cleaners, and sometimes, even nail polish remover.

For those who experience slow nail growth, brittle nails, nail breakage and splitting, here are some natural, home remedies for healthy and strong nails —

Coconut oil and honey

Combining three teaspoons of coconut oil and one teaspoon of honey, it needs to be warmed in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Soaking nails in this mixture for about 10 minutes daily or letting the mixture soak overnight wearing cotton gloves is an effective natural overnight treatment. This could be done for a month before results appear.

Olive oil and lemon

Soaking nails in a mixture of three tablespoons of olive oil and one tablespoon of lemon juice for 10 minutes daily is one of the best natural ways to grow and strengthen nails. Applying only warm olive oil to the end of the nails is also effective.

Moisturise

Dry and brittle nails break easily. Moisturising nails with tea tree oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, flaxseed oil, pumpkin seed oil, or vitamin E oil daily for about 10 minutes makes nails stronger, preventing them from breaking.

Vitamin E oil massage

Vitamin E oil works as an effective cure for brittle nails proving a boost of moisturisation and hydration, and also noticing nail cuticles.   

No biting!

Biting nails makes nails weaker and more prone to breaking. Puttinga Band-Aid or tape around each nail or applying nail polish with a bitter taste should prevent one from biting.

Nail care

Keeping nails clean to prevent infections and dirt accumulation aids nail growth. Never leave nails wet as wet nails are more susceptible to infection.

Photo: LS Archive/ Sazzad Ibne Sayed