Preparation
Strong, healthy nails might seem like a faraway dream for anyone who’s ever dealt with breakage or brittleness. However, there is a solution: Strengthening treatments can rescue and transform your damaged nails. But with that being said, it’s important to remember that not all of the options on the market today have the power to really make your manicure stronger. That’s why we asked experts to share their recommendations for the best nail strengtheners to buy right now.
There are so many causes for dry, unhealthy nails, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dana Stern. Anything from genetics to aging to certain medical conditions can affect nail strength. Of course, medical conditions and genetics aren’t all to blame. Sometimes environmental factors—like water, chemical exposures (such as the acetone in nail polish removers), the weather, and products we’re putting on our hands—can be the culprit, according to Dr. Stern. “Think of a brittle nail that has a tendency to break as analogous to overly processed hair that frizzes and has ends that split,” she says. “We condition and protect our hair to avoid these issues. To strengthen the nails, you need to use effective products and at times, to take a break from the salon, and harsh chemicals that are in so many nail products.”
While each of the products we’re sharing has its own directions for use, one rule of thumb, according to Dr. Stern, is to reach for natural, science-backed strengtheners, and use them for as long as you need. “If you are using products that are formulated with high quality ingredients that are based upon science, then you can use them as long as you need to as they will not have side effects,” she says. “In general, use a nail treatment/strengthener until your nails are back in shape. Often timing will depend on the extent of damage.”
From serums to lights, our experts explain why these nail strengtheners are among some of the best available.
Best Hydrating: ISDIN SI-NAILS Nail StrengthenersBest for Every Need: OPI Nail EnvyBest for Promoting Nail Growth: Maxus Strengthener 2.0Best Non-Serum Option: StimuNailBest Dermatologist-Approved: Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System
