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The Ultimate Guide to Natural Nail Care

The Ultimate Guide to Natural Nail Care

Many of us desire strong, healthy nails that complement our look for any occasion. After all, it is our versatile fingernails that can add a touch of elegance to our professional attire or a touch of glam for a special occasion.

Whether you prefer a traditional manicure or love to flaunt Dazzle Dry colors on your fingertips, practicing natural nail care is the key to achieving strong, healthy nails. Follow this helpful guide for some tips and tricks for nail care right at home.

Understanding the Basics of Nail Health

Your fingernails are made up of layers of a hard protein called keratin, which protects the sensitive fingertips. The anatomy of a healthy nail includes:

  1. The edge of the nail, or the white, half-moon part of the nail.
  2. The nail plate is the body of the nail.
  3. The lunula is the white, crescent shape at the base of the nail.
  4. The cuticle is the thin layer of dead skin that seals the nail and skin.

A healthy fingernail should be a uniform pinkish or rosy color, and have a smooth exterior without cracks, bumps, or grooves. Healthy fingernails also may develop vertical ridges with age, running from the cuticle to the edge of the nail.

Daily Nail Care Routine

In many cases, the key to strong, healthy nails is establishing a nail care routine that nourishes your nails naturally.

So grab your clippers, nail files, and strengthening protective lacquers, and follow these fingernail care tips for maintaining healthy nails.

#1 Nutrition & Nails

Achieving stronger nails is all about introducing the right vitamins and minerals into your diet, as many contribute to nail cells’ growth and strength.

To promote the health of your nails, look for foods that are rich in:

  • B-Vitamins – Vitamin B9 and B12 help your body absorb iron and develop red blood cells, which promotes the strength of your nails. You can find B vitamins in dark green vegetables, citrus fruits, meat, and eggs.
  • Iron – Meat, eggs, green leafy vegetables, beans, and peanuts are packed full of iron, which carries the necessary amounts of oxygen to your nails.
  • Magnesium – This mineral is a key component to protein synthesis, which remains necessary for nail growth. Whole grains, green leafy vegetables, black beans, and cashews are great sources of magnesium.
  • Biotin – This complex B-Vitamin boosts the production of protein-building acids and can be found in the liver, egg yolk, dairy products, and nuts.
  • Protein – As it’s necessary for the reproduction of keratin, make sure your diet includes enough protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
  • Vitamin C – This vitamin boosts the production of collagen, another protein that forms, strengthens, and shapes the nail. Try citrus fruits, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

#2 Hydrate Your Nails

Hydrating your nails is essential for preventing dry, brittle nails that can cause weakness, breaks, and even fungal infections that can get through small cracks in your nails and skin.

  • Moisturize – Whenever you use hand lotions or creams, rub them into your nails as well. Try to moisturize daily, especially after washing and drying your hands.
  • Remember your cuticles – Don’t just rub moisturizer onto your nail plate, but the cuticle as well. If your cuticles are dry, they’re prone to cracking which may let in bacteria.
  • Nail oils – In addition to moisturizer, applying nail oils can hydrate, strengthen, and add a shine to your nails.

Nail oils do wonders for the health of your nails, so let’s get into a little more detail on how to make your nails impress.

#3 Natural Nail Treatments

We recommend these natural oils that are full of fatty acids and Vitamin E, which can help moisturize, protect, and restore dry, brittle nails:

  • Jojoba oil
  • Flaxseed oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Sweet almond oil
  • Olive oil

Try this DIY nail treatment right at home: Mix equal parts jojoba or olive oil with lemon juice, then massage your nails with the mixture and rinse after 15 minutes. This acts as a conditioner for weak, dry nails.

#4 Avoid Harmful Chemicals

One common culprit of weak, damaged nails is exposure to chemicals—including some often found in nail products.

When you pick your next polishes and treatments, check for these ingredients to avoid:

  • Acetone
  • Formaldehyde
  • Toluene
  • Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)

For an extra level of protection, give your nails a break in between manicures to avoid overexposure to those chemicals.

Why Choose Dazzle Dry?

Whether they're decorated in shimmering glam or an elegant neutral, we show off our fingernails every day. But between our diets, harsh chemicals, and even our daily habits, our nails can't catch a break. But you can take those steps to achieve strong, healthy nails with the long-lasting, fast-drying Dazzle Dry System.

Our scientifically formulated system includes safe, vegan products to support the health of your nails. Dazzle Dry non-chipping nail polish allows a supportive nail treatment and a flawless manicure all in one.

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