13. Nailed it.
To me, a bad haircut and a bad manicure are both equally devastating, and I’m very particular about my manicures. From the shape to the technique, it takes me forever to find a nail technician that I trust to deliver because, unfortunately, I have been burned! Up until about a year ago, I was that girl with a standing appointment twice a month for a gel fill and design. Then I moved. I didn’t move continents, but when you move to a new neighborhood, out of city, or state, or even just to another borough, it can take a while to find your trusted beauty suppliers. It only takes one overzealous moment with an electric file to set you back 6-8 months on your nail care journey.
Nails are a fun, creative expression of identity. They reflect whole cultures, serve as visual reminders of past eras, and hint at current trends. My grandmother had long, beautiful, natural nails she kept manicured and simply painted. I would run my finger along each one in awe. It was like they went on forever. I guess that’s where my fascination started.
I’ve tried it all: acrylic tips, poly gel, hard gel, soft gel, French manicures, hand-drawn designs, gems, stickers, you name it. But I’m currently in my clean-girl era and have perfected the at-home mani using a few tips I’ll share below.
Our nails are more than just a canvas for colorful polishes. They reflect our overall health and require proper care to stay strong and healthy. Understanding what nails are made of, what causes them to become brittle, and how to maintain their health can lead to stronger, more resilient nails.
The Anatomy of a Nail
Nails are composed primarily of keratin, a type of protein also found in skin and hair. Keratin forms in layers, creating the hard, protective surface of the nail. Beneath the nail plate lies the nail bed, which supplies nutrients necessary for nail growth. Finally, the cuticle, a thin layer of skin at the base of the nail, protects the new keratin cells as they form.
Several factors that can contribute to brittle or unhealthy nails include:
Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals such as biotin, iron, and zinc can weaken nails. Your diet impacts everything. Ensuring you are getting sufficient protein, collagen, vitamins, and minerals is key. Foods rich in biotin, such as eggs, nuts, and whole grains, can promote nail strength.
Dehydration: Nails require adequate moisture. Frequent exposure to water, harsh soaps, and chemicals can strip nails of their natural oils. So, drink plenty of water and use moisturizing creams or oils on your nails and cuticles to maintain hydration.
Medical Conditions: Health issues such as hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and anemia can manifest as brittle nails.
Environmental Factors: Cold, dry weather and prolonged exposure to air conditioning or heating can lead to dry, brittle nails.
Improper Nail Care: Overusing nail polish, acetone-based removers, and excessive filing can damage the nail structure. When you can, avoid harsh chemicals and opt for gentle, acetone-free nail polish removers; also, get into the habit of filing your nails in one direction to prevent splitting. Lastly, wear gloves when doing household chores or when your hands are exposed to water for extended periods.
Ironically enough, I did not follow my own advice. While simultaneously writing this article and doing my usual Sunday cleaning routine, I snapped my nail by rushing the process and cleaning without gloves. The combination of dehydrating my nail bed and roughhousing a fitted sheet onto my bed ended in a nail homicide. Ooof.
It’s fine. It’ll grow back. Just like an uneven haircut, you want to trim a little where it’s long and keep maintaining what’s growing out. Keep in mind that if you're aiming to grow out your nails after damage or trimming, it generally takes about six months for a fingernail to fully grow out from the base to the tip. For toenails, this process is even longer and can take up to a year, if not more.
Checkout 〰️
OPI Repair Mode Nail Serum $24.99; The holy grail for getting your nails in fighting shape, this bond-building nail serum with Patented Ulti-Plex Technology™ penetrates the nail surface to build new bonds from within.
OPI Pro Spa Nail & Cuticle Oil To Go $11.49; This little tube, which contains avocado, sunflower seed, grape seed, and sesame seed oil, fits perfectly in your bag and can be used between washing your hands throughout the day.
Soft Services Theraplush Overnight Repair Treatment $62; This hand treatment is more on the pricey side, but it feels like a luxurious nighttime ritual packed with the power of retinol, colloidal oatmeal, and panthenol to treat your overworked hands at the end of the day.
Lights Lacquer Just a Tint Nail Polish $11.00; I fell in love with this brand and this color. It gives just a hint of blush to your natural nailbed, which you can adjust and make darker with every coat. And it lasts!
Lights Lacquer Totally Gelly Top Coat $14.00; Because I’ve taken a break from gel polish, I had to find a top coat that could offer the same lasting power. After much trial and error, I finally found the perfect gel-like consistency. This topcoat makes my manicures last for nearly two weeks without a single chip.
Germanikure Glass Cuticle Stick $11.95; This cuticle pusher has been a game changer in my at-home manicure arsenal. It’s like a magic eraser.
Olive and June Acetone-Free Polish Remover $10.00; It’s easy, it’s fast, it’s mess-free. Plus, it comes with a little sponge top for your toes.
➸ Final Thoughts
Whether you like a natural, no-frills mani or an over-the-top bedazzled Cardi B lengthened stiletto extension, don’t skimp on your nail health. Just like your hair, your nails can be a clear indicator of your internal health. You also want to be super gentle and proactive with your protective measures. Keeping your nails hydrated and properly groomed is key.
Stay sharp. Shine on.
Until next time,
T.
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