This is the reason why many manicurists will often advise against having bare nails. By applying a layer of nail varnish, you protect the nails from water absorption – meaning they’re less likely to peel or split. “Just don’t leave the colour on for too long,” warns Dr. Stern.
Use glass nail files
While typical cardboard emery boards tend to be the file of choice due to their affordability and how quickly they work, they’re actually not the best choice when it comes to nail health.
“Emery boards cause microscopic openings and splits at the tip of the nail that lead to peeling and cracks,” Dr. Stern explains. “I prefer glass or crystal nail files over cardboard emery boards because they don’t cause microscopic openings or tears and instead create a clean edge at the nail,” she says.
Opt for non-acetone polish remover
“In terms of chemical exposure, polish remover is a big one: Acetone tends to be especially drying to the nail and can make brittle nails worse,” Dr. Stern says, noting that it’s best to seek out conditioning formulas that contain ingredients like soy, or have added moisturising benefits from oils. Try the Cutex Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover which is enriched with coconut oil, or the Manucurist Green Nail Polish Remover.
Avoid nail products with formaldehyde
If typical nail-strengthening products sound too good to be true, that’s unfortunately because many of them are. “Many so-called nail strengtheners still contain formaldehyde or formalin, ingredients that are very damaging to the nail,” warns Dr. Stern. “Formaldehyde will initially harden the nail; however, with time, the nail becomes paradoxically brittle and is at risk of lifting or separating off of the nail bed.”
Formaldehyde can also cause severe allergic reactions at the surrounding nail folds, she adds, prompting the skin to become extremely irritated, swollen and painful. Translation? When shopping for nail products, opt for those formulated without formaldehyde.
Moisturise with nourishing ingredients
“Moisturising is the absolute cornerstone of any good hand care routine,” notes Dr. Shotter. “Regularly apply a rich, nourishing hand cream, paying special attention to your cuticles. Look for creams containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or glycerin for intense hydration. Keep a hand cream by your sink or in your handbag, to help build the habit of applying it after every time you wash your hands. This will help replenish moisture lost during cleansing and prevent dryness. To go the extra mile, you can use a hand mask or wear cotton gloves to lock in moisturiser overnight,” she adds.
“When looking for a nail and cuticle moisturiser look for products that are rich in phospholipids, which have been shown to increase nail flexibility, thus combatting brittleness,” Dr. Stern agrees. “Massage the product into your cuticles several times daily.” You’ll find phospholipids in products containing sunflower oil and Brazil nut oil: According to Dr. Stern, both oils are especially rich in phospholipids.
Treat nails with glycolic acid
Finally, be sure to seek out nail treatments containing glycolic acid. “Glycolic acid has been shown to rejuvenate brittle nails,” confirms Dr. Stern. “Just like we do peels for the skin to remove the superficial layers of dead cells, this strategy is also applicable to the nail,” Stern says.