To follow, three science-backed habits that could be damaging your nails right now. Let’s make 2023 the year of healthy natural nails for all. “If the cuticle compromise persists, the nail will eventually grow in irregularly,” board-certified dermatologist and nail expert Dana Stern, M.D., once told mbg. “This is because the cuticle overlies the nail matrix, which is the nail-producing center of the nail.” To sum it up: Cuticle care is essential for thriving, long nails. So, while cuticle oil might seem like a frivolous addition to your routine, let us be very clear—it’s not. In fact, you should be using it daily. If you don’t have one on hand already, here are 10 A+ oils to choose from. “To get the acrylic to stick, your natural nails must be filed down, causing damage and making them weaker. They also aren’t flexible like your natural nails, and if you were to break one, you’re more likely to crack and rip at the nail bed,” organic manicurist Eunice Montes-Hamaguchi says regarding faux nails. So, while you may not love the look of your short natural nails at first, removing plastic tips and prioritizing nail health is essential for nail growth. Remember: Patience is key. Specifically, biotin has been shown to support thickness and firmness of nails1 in human studies. One moderately sized human study found that those who took biotin supplements had 25% thicker nail beds2 than the placebo group.* These amino acids are the building blocks for keratin—aka, what your nails are made of. For example, one study found that when people took collagen daily for 24 weeks, their nail health was better maintained3, including faster growth rates, reduced breakage, and improved appearance.* To make a long story short: Do your best to consume foods rich in biotin and collagen, and consider supplements a targeted strategy and helping hand—here are some top picks to get you started.
