La Par Lifestyle - 01.01.2025
How to Strengthen Weak Nails:
A La Par Lifestyle Guide
If you’ve ever struggled with weak or brittle nails, and let's face it, many of us have, then you’re not alone. Our nails, much like our skin and hair, tell a story about our overall health and daily habits. They endure constant wear and tear from environmental factors, like dry air or harsh weather, and can also fall victim to product overload or the occasional neglect. But here’s the good news: nails are resilient, and with the right care and attention, they can bounce back stronger than ever. Whether it’s through nourishing your body, tweaking your nail care routine, or protecting them from everyday stressors, there are plenty of ways to give your nails the love they deserve. So fret not, armed with some expert knowledge and self-care tips, you’ll soon be on your way to flaunting stronger, healthier nails that can handle anything life throws at them. Let’s dive in!
In this expert-backed guide, we'll break down:
1. The common causes of weak nails
2. Proven strategies to strengthen nails naturally
3. Best products & ingredients for long-lasting nail health
Understanding Why Nails Become Weak - Common Causes & Fixes
Understanding why your nails are weak is the first step to fixing them. Here are the top culprits and how to counteract them:
| Cause of Weak Nails | Why It Happens | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Nutritional Deficiencies | Lack of biotin, iron, and protein weakens the nail plate. | Eat biotin-rich foods like eggs, salmon, and almonds. Consider a biotin supplement. |
| Excessive Water Exposure | Frequent hand washing or dishwashing weakens nails. | Wear protective gloves when doing chores. |
| Harsh Nail Products | Acetone-based removers and HEMA-containing gels damage nail structure. | Use HEMA-Free and Big 10-Free nail polishes (La Par's Gel Polish Collection). |
| Over-Filing & Buffing | Buffing too often thins the nail plate. | Limit buffing to once a month and use a glass nail file instead of emery boards. |
| Lack of Moisture | Dehydrated nails become brittle and prone to breakage. | Apply cuticle oil daily and use a hydrating nail serum. |
| Frequent Polish Changes | Constant application and removal weakens nails over time. | Give nails a rest between applications and use strengthening treatments. |
How to Strengthen Weak Nails (The Ultimate Routine)
Step 1: Nourish Your Nails from the Inside Out
At La Par, we believe in a holistic approach to nail care. That means nourishing your body from within with the right nutrients to support strong, healthy nails. Your diet directly impacts your nail health. To promote stronger, faster-growing nails, prioritize the right nutrients.
Protein and Keratin: The Building Blocks of Nails
- Why Protein Matters
Protein aids in keratin production, which is the foundation of healthy nails. Without enough protein, nails can become weak and split. - Dietary Sources
Include protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, legumes, and fish in your meals. Bonus: these foods also provide iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which further support nail health.
Step 2: Use Nail Strengthening Products
Product Recommendations for Healthier Nails:
1. Apply A Nail Strengthener
-Choose a keratin-infused treatment that reinforces your natural nail structure.
-La Par’s Gel Builder is a highly popular professional solution that reinforces weak or brittle nails.The point of gel builders are to help strengthen and rebuild the nails. Word on the street is that La Par is coming out with a new product called Builder In Bottle that strengthens weak nails, while giving you a brilliant color.
2. Use a Nourishing Cutucle Oil
-Drycuticles lead to weaker nail growth.
-Massage La Par's Cuticle Oil serum onto nail cuticles daily for deep hydration.
3. Switch to HEMA-Free Gel Polish
-Many gel polishes contain HEMA, a harsh chemical that can cause nail thinning and brittleness, as well as allergic reactions such as acute dermatitis.
-La Par's Gel Polish Collection is formulated to be gentle, yet durable, allowing your nails to strengthen while looking flawless.
Nail Tip:
Hydration is Key
Dehydration doesn’t just affect your skin—it impacts your nails too. Drinking enough water keeps your nail cells healthy and prevents brittleness.
Step 3: Protect Your Nails from Breakage
Did you know? Your nails are at their weakest when wet. That's why water exposure and harsh environments can make them more prone to splitting and peeling.
Do's:
-Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning.
-Use a gentle, non-acetone remover to take off polish.
-Keep nails trimmed and shaped to prevent breakage.
Dont's:
-Peel off your gel polish (this damages the nail beds).
-Over-buff the nail surface.
-Use acrylics or dip powder, as they dehydrate nails over time
Reducing Use of Harsh Nail Products - Nail Techs: Pay Attention This is for you
We all have stepped into our neighborhood nail salon with the idea of getting pampered, but we often walk out with a splitting headache due to the strong and often aggressive odor of acrylic. And that is just the customer. Imagine working day in and day out 8-10 hours a day engulfing your lungs in these harsh chemicals. Acrylic application often requires filing down the surface of the natural nail and weaken the nail plate over time. The removal process can end up causing the nails to peel, become brittle or even thin the natural nail. The application of acrylics use chemicals like liquid monomers and powders and are strongly associated with extreme odors that not only irritate your nose and lungs, but also the skin and nails. Some even develop allergies to the chemicals that are used in acrylic nails which result in redness, itching or swelling.The unfortunate reality is nearly two-thirds of brand-new nail techs can develop contact dermatitis from acrylic (meth)acrylate products in their very first year (Gonçalo et al., Contact Dermatitis, 2018). But don’t let that scare you off; invest in proper training, slip on those nitrile gloves, cure that gel properly, and keep your workstation well-ventilated to protect both your artistry and your gorgeous hands! Alternatives: gentler, acetone-free removers and breathable nail polish.
The La Par Lifestyle Nail Strengthening Routine
Morning Routine
-Apply La Par's Cuticle Oil for hydration.
-Use a lightweight hand cream to lock in moisture.
Nighttime Routine
-Massage a keratin-infused serum into nails.
-Wear hydrating gloves overnight for deep repair.
FAQ: Your Nail Strengthening Questions - Answered
- Q1. How long does it take to strengthen weak nails?
On average, it takes 4-6 weeks of constistent care to see noticeable improvement in nail strength. If your nails are severely damaged, full recovery may take 3-6 months, but the right routine speeds up the process. - Q2. Can I still wear gel polish if my nails are weak?
Yes, but only if you use the right formula. Traditional gel polishes with HEMA can cause long-tern damage, but La Par's HEMA-Free Gel Builder actually reinforces your natural nails while giving you a glossy, salon-quality finish. - Q3. How do I stop my nails from peeling?
Peeling nails are often due to dehydration, exposure to harsh chemicals, or excessive buffing. Here is how to fix them:
-Apply cuticle oil 2x day.
-Switch to a non-acetone remover.
-Limit water exposure because wet nails are weak nails. - Q4. What's the best way to grow nails fast?
If you want longer, stronger nails, follow these tips:
-Massage your cuticles daily to stimulate growth.
-Take a biotin supplement.
-Use a gel builder to add strength and length without causing damage.
-Avoid biting your nails - this weakens the nail structure.
Expert Tips for Long-Term Nail Strength
- Consistency is Key
Reinforce the importance of regular nail care habits for lasting results. - Listen to Your Nails
Encourage readers to pay attention to their nails’ needs (e.g., brittleness, peeling) and adjust their care routine. - Regular Nail Trimming
Advise on keeping nails trimmed to avoid breakage and encourage growth. - Find Yourself an Educated Nail Techician
This ensures not only stunning nail artistry but also the health and safety of your natural nails, because true beauty starts with proper care.
The Glossy Finish
Let’s talk about securing that #RichBitchNail energy because strong, healthy nails are the ultimate accessory to feeling fabulous. It all starts with nourishing your body with protein-packed meals and hydration goals! Protect your nails like the queens they are by wearing gloves during chores and avoiding overexposure to harsh chemicals or water. And of course, La Par has your back with pro-level products like the iconic Gel Builder to take your nail game to the next level. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay in the loop for the latest and greatest from La Par Lifestyle because you don’t want to miss what’s coming next!