QuestionI was a long time acrylic nail wearer, at least 4 years. I took my acrylics of January 17th 2011. I have done this several times over the years, and always had the issue of really weak and flimsy nails. I was a nail biter, up until 2006. In 2009 I had nice,long natural nails. But when they got wet, i.e the shower or washing hands, they would get really flimsy. I have tried numerous nail strengtheners, and non of them did much good. Weak nails don't run in the family, but i do have a sister with eggshell like nails. I am in beauty school, and we have gone over all things with nails. I want my own natural nails to shine through. I just bought a product called Rejuvacote by Duri Cosmetics. I have trie OPI Nail Envy, and that did very little to help. I take 3000 - 5000 mcg of Bioton Daily, 800mcg of Folic Acid, a multi vitamin, and some medications for insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and anit depressant. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome as well. I am wanting to know what i can do to fix this problem with my fingernails. My nails are so weak that they bend and tear. I use gloves when washing dishes, or cleaning.but when washing a clients hair at school, they catch and rip, and that really hurts. I have them short, as to hope they wont tear as easily. I look forward to getting your answer.
Thank You
AnswerWow. I have to say that I'm impressed. You really know your nails and it seems like you are already doing everything possible to make the best of what you have.
The new generation of UV-cured polishes (CND's Shellac, Nail Harmony's Gelish, etc# will add some strength, but there is some controversy in the business as to whether or not these products are actually contributing to dehydration of the nail plate.
Other natural nail product systems to look into are Jessica Cosmetics, and Nail Tek.
You might also try Juliette paper wraps-- it's a procedure from the 50's/60's that uses tissue paper and clear polish to wrap the natural nails. It's very difficult to find a tutorial for the process and I haven't managed to figure it out and perfect it to the point where I'm qualified to offer one up myself yet.
Other than this, you are doing everything you can to make the most of the nails you have. I know it's not the best news, but there just isn't an easy answer for natural nails. So much of our natural nails is based on genetics, and there's no way to change that. If you don't want to wear product on your nails, the best you can do is find a length that works for daily wear, and find a good nail strengthener.
Use cuticle oil #that does not contain mineral oil--mineral oil does not penetrate the skin, so it won't rehydrate) daily. CND's Solar Oil is excellent. The oil will keep skin and nail plate hydrated so nails won't become brittle. And massaging the matrix can help with circulation and stimulate healthy cell production.
