Brittle nails are more common than you might think; we talked to the expert manicurists at The Secret Lab about what causes weak nails and how to strengthen them.
Why do nails become weak and brittle?
I’ve recently noticed that whenever I remove semi-permanent polish, my nails tend to bend very easily, and it’s no coincidence that I’ve discovered I have a vitamin-B12 deficiency. “You have to assess what’s going on holistically,” The Secret Lab experts tell Vogue. “A lack of keratin, a main component of hair and nails, is a possible culprit. Iron deficiency can also cause brittleness as anaemia slows nails’ growth and weakens them.” Getting regular manicures with electrical tools but without proper prep can likewise cause problems, as can certain soaps and detergents, spending a lot of time in air-conditioned or heated spaces, and – of course – biting your nails.
How does your diet impact your nail health?
Your diet impacts almost every aspect of your wellbeing, including the health of your nails. To help promote the production of keratin, The Secret Lab team recommends eating foods rich in beta-carotene such as carrots, strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkins, and peppers. Eggs are also a good idea, as they contain biotin, which is essential for cell growth and for keratin production. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin C, too, which your body needs to make the collagen responsible for preventing hangnails from forming.
What’s the best way to strengthen weak and brittle nails?
Keep nails clean, short and natural. If you’re used to semi-permanent polish or acrylics, now is the moment to take a break from them, applying cuticle oil and hand cream regularly instead. It’s also worth considering a restorative Japanese manicure with nourishing ginseng and seaweed. Oh, and break out the Marigolds while doing the washing up; harsher cleaning products aren’t your friend for the time being.
