Nail Care: How To Create A Routine That Strengthens Your Nails

nail care - a black woman hand spread out

Whether nail care for you is a form of self-care or just routine maintenance, it’s worth giving this part of your body regular attention. From weakening it as a result of constant or excessive contact with water to unhealthy habits such as biting, your nails experience undeserved harshness. This is why it’s great to give them good treatment often in order to strengthen and grow them. 

Here are simple, non-toxic DIY nail care tips that can become part of your routine:   

What you’ll need: 

Nail file
Vitamin E cuticle Oil
Lemon juice
Garlic
Shea butter
Cuticle pusher

Steps:
  1. Wash your hands clean
  2. File your nails to desired shape
  3. Massage your cuticles with vitamin E cuticle oil 
  4. Gently push back the cuticles. This will make your nails look longer and also keep your cuticles healthy. 
  5. Smudge your nails with lemon juice and leave for 5 minutes
  6. Massage with slices of garlic for 2 – 5 minutes
  7. Wash your hands and moisturize with shea butter

While caring for your nails consistently can help to strengthen them, it is crucial to support the process with great nutrition that promotes nail growth. The following foods contain nutrients that help to grow and strengthen nails:

Beans: One cup of cooked white beans contains about 35% folate and 37% iron . These are two nutrients that promote proper functioning and care of your nails.   

Protein: Fish is a great source of protein, a nutrient that promotes strong bones. If you’re a meat kind of person, opt for those that are lean such as turkey and chicken. If you’re vegan, try these plant-based proteins foods.

Leafy greens: Spinach, broccoli and kale are great sources of iron, folate and calcium, all of which contribute to healthy nails. 

Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers and carrots. Just 1 ounce of sautéed red peppers provide 76% vitamin C. 

Fruits: Bananas, strawberries and blueberries  and nuts all contain nutrients that help to grow and strengthen nails.  

Eggs, whole grains and salmon are also great additions to the list. Incorporate all of these foods into your diet for better nail health and structure.