Brittle nails are surprisingly common, whether due to nutrient deficiencies or damage from gel manicures. That’s why many of us are looking for ways to strengthen weak nails without causing further harm—while still enjoying our favorite nail art.
The good news is that healthy nails are achievable, even for regular gel polish users. We consulted expert manicurists from The Secret Lab and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick of MDCS Dermatology to understand what causes weak nails and how to fortify them. Here’s what we learned.
Why Do Nails Become Weak and Brittle?
Your nutrition and diet affect nearly every part of your health—including your nails. For example, after removing semi-permanent polish like gel, you might notice your nails bend more easily. It may not be a coincidence if you also discover a vitamin B12 deficiency.
“You have to look at the whole picture,” say the experts at The Secret Lab. A lack of keratin—the main building block of hair and nails—could be the issue. Iron deficiency can also lead to brittleness, since anemia slows nail growth and weakens them.
Other factors include regular manicures using electric tools without proper preparation, certain soaps and detergents, spending a lot of time in air-conditioned or heated spaces, and of course, nail biting.
To support keratin production, The Secret Lab recommends eating foods rich in beta-carotene, like carrots, strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkins, and peppers. Eggs are also beneficial because they contain biotin, which is essential for cell growth and keratin formation. Don’t forget vitamin C, which your body uses to produce collagen and prevent hangnails.
How Can You Strengthen Weak and Brittle Nails?
If your nails are becoming weaker or more brittle, don’t worry—there are steps you can take to prevent breaks and improve their health.
– Moisturize Often
Just like your skin, your nails need hydration. Dr. Garshick suggests applying a thick hand cream or cuticle oil daily to keep nails nourished.
– Protect Your Hands
We use our hands constantly, often without realizing how much wear and tear our nails endure. Wear gloves while washing dishes, cleaning, or gardening to shield nails from water and harsh chemicals.
– Limit Water Exposure
Too much soaking or frequent hand washing can make nails more likely to peel or break. If gloves aren’t an option, try to minimize contact with water.
– Avoid Harsh Products
Ingredients like acetone are extremely drying and damaging. Choose gentler nail polish removers whenever possible.
– Use Nail Strengtheners
These products often contain keratin and peptides, which help reinforce the nail plate and reduce brittleness. A dermatologist may recommend a prescription option like Genadur, or you can try over-the-counter treatments like Essie’s Hard-to-Resist Nail Strengthener.
– Keep Nails Short
Regularly trimming your nails helps prevent breakage, according to Dr. Garshick.
– Eat a Balanced Diet
Your nails need proper nutrition to grow strong. Make sure you’re getting enough protein, iron, and zinc.
– Take a Break
As much as we love nail art, frequent use of gel, acrylics, dips, or semi-permanent polish can take a toll. Dr. Garshick advises giving your nails a rest by going polish-free from time to time.To help your nails recover, apply cuticle oil and hand cream instead.
Be Gentle (And Stop Picking)
It’s a tough habit to quit, but Dr. Garshick advises against picking at your nails. Removing polish or gel manicures by peeling can damage your nails, making them weak and brittle. She also cautions against filing too harshly—when in doubt, treat your nails with care.
Try Nourishing Treatments
There are many treatments to restore your nails’ health. Consider a restorative manicure with nourishing ingredients like ginseng and seaweed, or find a quality cuticle oil. Dr. Garshick explains that it hydrates and conditions both the cuticle and nail plate, preventing cracking and peeling.
Look for products containing jojoba oil, vitamin E, sweet almond oil, or avocado oil, as these are known to nourish and strengthen nails. Her top picks include Essie On-A-Roll Apricot Cuticle Oil for its convenience on the go, and Olive & June Cuticle Serum, which is highly moisturizing thanks to avocado and apricot oil.
Figure Out the Cause
The most effective treatment may be identifying the root cause of your weak, brittle nails. Dr. Garshick emphasizes the importance of determining if there’s an underlying issue you can address to find the best solution. She notes that conditions like fungal infections, psoriasis, eczema, or thyroid problems can contribute to brittle nails, so treating the underlying cause is crucial. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist is always a wise step.
How long does it typically take for nails to get stronger?
With consistent nail treatments and hand moisturizing, Dr. Garshick says it usually takes two to three months for nails to strengthen. Since fingernails take six to 12 months to grow out fully, recovery can take that long. While some products offer immediate strengthening effects, she warns these may be temporary; a steady routine is your best path to healthy nails. If you have concerns or don’t see improvement, she recommends seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Curious about a beauty or wellness trend? Let us know! Email Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor at beauty@vogue.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and clear FAQs about strengthening weak brittle nails
Beginner General Questions
1 Whats the difference between weak and brittle nails
Weak nails are soft thin and bend or tear easily Brittle nails are dry hard and prone to splitting cracking or peeling
2 Why are my nails so weak and brittle in the first place
Common causes include frequent hand washing using harsh nail polish removers overexposure to water and chemicals nutritional deficiencies and simply aging
3 Can I actually make my nails stronger or is it just genetics
While genetics play a role you can significantly improve your nail strength and health through proper care protection and nutrition
4 Whats the most important thing I can start doing today
Moisturize Apply a dedicated nail and cuticle oil or a thick hand cream several times a day especially after washing your hands
5 How long does it take to see an improvement
Since nails grow slowly it typically takes 3 to 6 months of consistent care to see a noticeable difference as the new healthier nail grows out
Nutrition Health Questions
6 What vitamins or supplements are good for weak nails
Biotin is the most wellknown supplement for nail strength Iron Zinc and Omega3 fatty acids are also crucial for healthy nail growth
7 What foods should I eat for stronger nails
Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein biotin and omega3s
8 Can dehydration affect my nails
Absolutely Just like your skin your nails need hydration from the inside out Drinking enough water helps prevent them from becoming dry and brittle
Nail Care Maintenance Questions
9 Whats the best way to file brittle nails
Always file in one direction not backandforth which can cause tiny splits Use a gentle glass or finegrit file and keep them at a shorter length to prevent snagging
10 Should I stop using nail polish
Not necessarily but take breaks Go polishfree for a few days between manicures Always use a nonacetone remover and a protective