Tips to Grow Long and Healthy Nails - Polish Your Routine
If you're looking for tips on growing long and healthy nails, stop right here. We've got the information you need, including things you never thought about. We will support you in having a beautiful manicure every time!
How Fast Do Nails Grow?
If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of losing a nail, you know that it takes six months to a year for it to grow back. Toenails grow about 1/16th inch per month, while fingernails grow faster at a rate of 1/8 inch per month. The growth rate depends on several factors, including overall health, age, and genetics.
What Makes Nails Grow More Quickly?
Your nails need the right nutrients to grow long and strong. Besides eating balanced meals with plenty of vitamins and minerals, many people take extra biotin and protein to enhance nail growth. They also make sure to drink enough water.
If you aren't certain that you are eating the right amounts of nutrients or drinking enough water, you can get these things checked. For example, many digital scales measure the amount of water in our bodies and how much fat and muscle we have. Then, a blood test can check the levels of vitamins and minerals in the blood.
If you're concerned about your nail health, consult a dermatologist or family doctor. As you may already know, your nails’ appearance can reveal how healthy you are.
Watch out for These Nail Problems That Slow down or Stop Growth
Here are the most common kinds of nail damage or illnesses nail techs see:
Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis): This fungal infection causes fingernails and toenails to become discolored, brittle, and thickened. It's often characterized by yellow or white spots on the nails and can spread if left untreated.
Nail Psoriasis: This health condition triggers pitting, ridges, discoloration, and thickening. It can be painful and lead to nail loss if not managed properly.
Ingrown Nails: When the nail's edge grows into the skin, it leads to pain and swelling, inflammation, and sometimes infection. Improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, and trauma to the nail are common causes.
Brittle Nails: Brittle nails are likely to split, peel, and break easily. Causes include frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions like hormonal imbalance.
Allergic Reactions: Some may develop an allergy to nail products, such as acrylics, gels, or nail polish ingredients. Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling, or blistering around the nail area.
Nail Discoloration: Yellowing or darkening may be caused by various factors including fungal infections, trauma, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.
Each condition requires proper diagnosis and treatment to promote nail health and prevent further damage.
Easy Tips for Healthy Nails
Let's quickly go over stuff you probably already know but needs to be said anyway:
- Avoid pure acetone polish remover in favor of gentle formulas if possible.
- Wear gloves for household chores, gardening, or working with harsh chemicals.
- Trim nails regularly and file them in one direction from the edge toward the middle (not back and forth) to prevent breakage and encourage growth.
- Use moisturizing hand cream and cuticle oil to hydrate nails and surrounding skin.
LAVIS Organic Cuticle Oil
- Limit exposure to prolonged soaking as it will weaken nails.
- Apply a protective base coat before using nail polish to prevent staining and damage.
- Give nails periodic breaks from extravagant manicures and choose a simple "your nails but better" look.
- Apply a nail hardener or strengthener product each time you do your nails.
LDS Gel Strengthener
- Avoid biting or picking at nails and cuticles to prevent damage and infections. (Find another outlet for stress fidgeting like a spinner ring).
- Fix hangnails, rough spots, and breakage as soon as possible.
- Check with your nail tech about their policies for a clean and safe experience.
- Consult a dermatologist if you notice nail problems such as discoloration, ridges, or pain.
You might already be doing those everyday things to protect your nails. If so, pat yourself on the back.
What to Do If You Can't Give Your Nails a Break?
Some of us don't want to take a break from doing nail art, and others can't (i.e., models). Let's talk about measures to improve your nail health while enjoying regular manicures.
Instead of soaking nails in acetone for extended periods to remove gel or acrylic nails, use nail wraps and warmth to accelerate the process. Also, buff the surface of the polish to aid in penetration.
Moreover, choose high-quality products with as few harsh chemicals as possible. For example, we have LDS nail lacquer that's 9-free. It provides a professional, durable finish without the need for toxins like formaldehyde or toluene.
LDS Nail Lacquer
You can also keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in nail care and technologies. For instance, are you familiar with our poly extension gel? Think of it as a premixed acrylic that cures like a gel. You get the best of both worlds with less harm to your nails.
Lavis Poly Gel
Try a nail wrap or hard gel overlay to get a protective layer over the natural nails. They can help strengthen the nails and provide a smooth surface for nail art while allowing the natural nails to grow underneath.
Also, try a dip powder manicure, which is more durable than gels and requires less filing to remove compared to acrylic nails.
Finally, be careful with nail drills. Electronic nail files are valuable tools when used by someone who is trained. They allow for precise shaping, filing, and smoothing, saving time and effort during manicures and pedicures. However, aggressive filing will thin and weaken the natural nail and even damage the nail bed. If not properly sanitized between clients, e-files increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
What's the Best Nail Shape for Long and Healthy Nails?
Nail shape influences their strength. Squoval nails have the soft curves of an oval with the straight edges of square nails. They offer a smart compromise between strength and elegance.
Although round nails aren’t as popular right now, this shape is inherently strong and less prone to breakage, making it ideal for those with weak, short nails who want to promote growth and prevent snagging.
Oval nails feature rounded edges and an elongated shape resembling the natural curve of the fingertip. They distribute stress evenly across the nail, reducing the risk of breakage.
Style-conscious people often prefer almond-shaped nails that elongate the fingers and create an elegant, feminine look. While almond nails need a little length to look their best, they reduce the likelihood of breakage along the sides.
Regardless of your nail shape, keep them trimmed, moisturized, and protected from damage, and soon you'll be impressed with their length!
Conclusion
We wish you the long, healthy nails you've dreamed of having! Please take advantage of our excellent nail care products to aid you in your quest. We even offer free shipping for orders over $50.
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