It's frustrating when a nail breaks, but it's even more annoying when this little incident happens often. You may be tired of having to cut them to align with the broken one; however, you can take some steps to protect them and promote healthy growth. Over time, you can also strengthen them and have fewer broken nails to worry about.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Protect Nails from Damage
Step 1. Cut it
If they tend to break, it can be a good solution to leave them short. You don't necessarily have to give up on long nails, but shortening them slightly can help. Try to keep them a few millimeters shorter than usual.
- Cut them when they are soft, for example after taking a bath or shower, as they are more prone to breaking when dry.
- You can also soak your fingertips in the water for a few minutes before proceeding.
Step 2. File the edges so they don't get caught on objects
If they are rough they can get stuck in clothing and nails can break as a result. To avoid this, make sure that the tips of the nails remain smooth.
- File them 1-2 times a week and anytime you notice rough edges.
- During the treatment, move the file in only one direction, without changing the direction of movement of the instrument, as you could weaken the nails; just make a quick forward motion and move the file in one direction only.
Step 3. Use tools when appropriate
One of the reasons why nails often break is because people mistakenly use them instead of tools. If you also have this bad habit, you can reduce the risk of breaking them by properly using tools rather than nails. Do not use them to scrape objects and perform all the tasks you need to perform using tools.
- For example, don't use them to open packages, but take a pair of scissors and cut the ribbon.
- Or, if you see something stuck to your desk, don't scratch it with your fingernails, but instead use a hard metal object, such as a scraper.
Step 4. Put on your gloves
Doing housework can sometimes happen to break your nails due to water and chemicals to which they are exposed; protect them by wearing latex or vinyl gloves whenever you do housework.
- For example, be sure to put them on when you wash the dishes or clean the bathtub.
- You can also wear them whenever your nails are at risk of getting caught or stuck in something, for example when you fold the laundry.
Step 5. Apply clear polish
If your nails tend to break easily, this method can offer some protection; apply a layer or two to reduce the risk of this inconvenience.
Avoid using hardeners because they can dry out your nails with the risk that they break more easily; a standard clear polish is sufficient
Method 2 of 2: Maintain Healthy Nails
Step 1. Apply lotion frequently
By keeping your hands well hydrated you can protect your nails and prevent them from breaking; spread the product after washing your hands and whenever you feel a little dry.
Always keep a pack of moisturizer with you, for example in your handbag or desk drawer
Step 2. Use acetone-free solvent
The nail polish remover can damage your nails and make them more prone to breaking. If you want to keep them healthy and strong you should choose an emollient and acetone-free product.
It is also advisable to limit its use; apply it no more than once a week, so as not to further damage the nails
Step 3. Leave the cuticles alone
The habit of cutting them is quite common, but increases the risk of developing infections. To preserve the health of your nails, you must avoid removing them.
- Dip your fingertips in hot water for 5 minutes and use an orange wood stick to gently push back the cuticles; this way your hands will look better and at the same time ensure the health of the nail bed.
- You can also apply cuticle cream to keep your fingers healthier.
Step 4. Avoid biting your nails
You could introduce bacteria and cause a nail bed infection. therefore take all possible initiatives to stop this bad habit. Here are some tips:
- Apply a bitter-tasting nail polish.
- Keep your nails short.
- Find something else to do with your hands, like knit or use the stress ball.
- Get a manicure once a month.
Step 5. Let them breathe
Constantly holding on to nail polish or fake nails can weaken them and make them more prone to breakage. To keep them healthy and strong you should avoid using chemicals for at least a few days every 2-3 months so they can breathe.
During this break you can apply a thick moisturizing product on your hands and nails, to keep them healthy, shiny and allow them to regain the natural hydration they have lost due to the nail polish
Step 6. See a dermatologist if your nails continue to break
If you see them cracking and breaking no matter what you do, a visit to a specialist may be necessary, as you may be suffering from some underlying condition causing this disorder. The dermatologist is able to identify and treat the problem.
