I Did the Research—These Are the Best Nail Strengtheners on the Market
Grace Day
Dry, brittle nails are the worst. Whether due to nutritional deficiencies or wear and tear amplified by nail treatments like gel and acrylics, it can often feel hard to maintain healthy nails. It's safe to say that weak nails that are prone to splitting and snapping are a surefire way to ruin a fresh manicure, so to get to the root of the issue and find out how best to treat dry nails, I asked Odette Qevani, head beautician at Gielly Green, about the benefits of nail strengtheners for maintaining a healthy nail routine.
How do nail strengtheners work?
"Nail strengtheners work by boosting the overall health of your nails, supplying them with added nourishment and fortifying the nail plate with an extra layer of protection," explains Qevani. "The nail strengthener will form a flexible film on the nail surface, effectively shielding them from potential damage, making them an integral first line of defence for weak and brittle nails."
Ingredients-wise, Qevani advises looking for products with four key ingredients. The first is vitamin A, "which promotes nail growth and is the salve for vertical ridges that form on dry nails," she says. Next, holistic ingredients like coconut oil, "which works as an all-natural way to lock in moisture and protect the nails from fungal and bacterial injections."
For a further nail boost, Qevani recommends using products formulated with zinc and folic acid. "Zinc staves off discolouration on the nails that may be caused by a deficiency, and folic acid, which although commonly associated with prenatal care, is great in promoting new nail cells universally."
Keeping your nails both looking and feeling their best doesn't just stop at strengthening products. According to Qevani, "Along with using nail strengtheners, it's important to practice healthy nail habits." Namely, "Never pick off gel polish as it damages the nails underneath, and always remember to use nail oil after painting the nails as it hydrates the cuticles," she says.
In order to help you on your healthy nail journey, we've found some of the best nail-strengthening options you can shop now.
Shop the Best Nail Strengtheners:
1. OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
2. Mavala Scientifique K+ Nail Hardener
3. Sally Hansen Nail Growth Miracle
4. Leighton Denny Renovate Nail Repair Cream Buffer
5. Nails Inc. Gimme Strength Nail Strengthener
7. Nailberry The Nail Hardener
1. OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
2. Mavala Scientifique K+ Nail Hardener
3. Sally Hansen Nail Growth Miracle
4. Leighton Denny Renovate Nail Repair Cream Buffer
5. Nails Inc. Gimme Strength Nail Strengthener
6. Manucurist Base S.O.S
7. Nailberry The Nail Hardener
More Nail Health Essentials:
This story was previously published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Ata-Owaji Victor is a lifestyle and beauty writer and editor whose work has appeared in Refinery29, Elle UK and British Vogue. She has a keen eye for all things Afro haircare (which she frequently samples on her 4C coils), beauty tech and innovation. As someone with combination skin, she's always on the lookout for Wholesale Replica Bag dewy skin heroes.
- Grace DayFreelance Beauty Editor
-
I Take Back Everything I Said Before, *This* Is the Chicest Pedicure I've Ever Seen
I need to try this ASAP.
-
I'm an Expert in Manicure Trends—These Are the 7 Most Popular Nail Colours of 2025 So Far
They're already reigning supreme.
-
I Can't Help But Notice This Summer Nail Trend Has Kicked the Humble French Manicure to the Kerb
Starfish, shells and crustaceans galore.
-
Quiet Luxury, Who? I'm Saving These 11 Bright Nail Designs for My Next Salon Visit
The bolder, the better.
-
It's Officially a French Tip Summer—These Designs Will Have You Running to the Salon
The perfect holiday mani.
-
Kendall Jenner Just Declared This Throwback OPI Colour the Nail Polish of the Summer
The greatest nail colour of all time?
-
8 Nail Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing All Summer Long
Bookmark these for your next salon visit.
-
Some People Hate This Colour for Pedicures, But I Think It's Incredibly Chic
Forget French tips.