Looking into how to grow nails faster naturally? It’s no secret that a gel manicure looks best on a longer set of nails, but the reality is, naturally long nails can be hard to grow out and extensions are not for everyone. 

For busy moms and working ladies, you probably don’t have the luxury of sitting back, relaxing and just letting those nails grow out. Insufficient nail care can lead to breakage, dry cuticles, and affected nail growth. These broken nails can be annoying, sometimes causing further pain and discomfort too! But there are ways to promote healthy nails while not compromising your to-do list. 

We delve into everyday tips you can incorporate to your routines, and the easy extra precautions to take for nail care. Here’s to demystifying how to grow strong nails naturally: 

Keep your nails and cuticles moisturised 

A variety of factors, both environmental and internal, can contribute to dry nails. This may be your diet (more on that below), the exposure of your nails to chemicals and soaps, or just neglecting them at the end of a long day. 

Especially as we can’t avoid using our hands everyday, our nails are constantly exposed to the elements. Making a point to moisturise thoroughly everyday will help to  maintain your nails and cuticles in tip-top shape. Pro tip: keep a hand cream in your bag throughout the day, and invest in a good cuticle oil for daily use. 

If you’re one for jetsetting and frequent travel — though we know it’s easy to overlook, the dry climates in and out of the plane cabin can contribute to dry nails and cuticles. Remember to take extra care, especially if you’re travelling to a colder climate! 

Read More Here: Holidays soon? Best skin care tips for cold weather 

It’s all about your diet

You’ve probably heard this one before, but a healthy diet doesn’t just benefit your skin and overall health, but promotes healthy nail growth too. Carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A — great for keeping your nails shiny and moisturised. 

Take it one step further with vitamin supplements — biotin and zinc supplements usually target nail health and promote healthy nail growth. These can be found off the shelf at your nearby pharmacies and shops. 

Keratin supplements (often associated with hair) are great for keeping your nails strong. This is because keratin is the main protein that makes up your nails. These supplements usually come as topical oils or oral supplements.

Don’t use your nails as tools 

Have to open that plastic wrapping? When growing our nails out, we find ourselves subconsciously using them when we shouldn’t be. Even if it may seem like no big deal at the time, make a conscious effort to avoid excessive trauma to your nails, so as to prevent knicks and further breakage. Reach for those scissors instead! 

Read More Here: Yellow Nails? Here are the causes and how to treat them

Keep a nail file handy 

Filing your nails into a rounded shape will help prevent any edges from accidentally getting caught on things and breaking. 

Keeping a nail file at the ready will help you to smooth out any edges as and when you need to — making sure your nails grow out healthily and strong, with no breakage setbacks. 

image via @amyle.nails

Don’t skimp on gel removal processes

Where you might find removal kits online and tips for removal at home — it’s always best to leave gel removal to the professionals. (Opt for our gel removal at your next Nail Oasis appointment, we do it best ;)) 

If you’re one for classic polishes in between, opt for a non-acetone remover when taking off your manicure and pedicure. Acetone is the chemical found in most drugstore nail polish removers, but it is also one of the more drying chemicals for your nails.  

Wear rubber gloves when doing your chores

If you wash dishes or do chores often — chemicals found in these household products can dry out your nails quickly. Making a habit of wearing rubber gloves when doing chores will protect not just your skin, but your nails as well. 

We know, it’s that small step that we always end up getting overlooked, but taking that extra precaution will go a long way in protecting your nails in the long run. 

Ready for that manicure? Book a housecall mani pedi here with The First Refresh - for a relaxing treat from the comfort of home.