Nails are made of keratin, a protein continuously produced by the body that gives them strength and shine. When they are damaged or poorly cared for on a daily basis, nails gradually lose this keratin and become fragile, brittle, or split. Several natural remedies can help restore stronger nails.
Why do nails become brittle?
Brittle nails can have several causes. Repeated contact with water and household products, frequent use of harsh nail polishes and removers, or even certain nutritional deficiencies can weaken the nail structure. Cold weather, natural aging, and certain habits like nail biting also play a role. To better understand what the condition of your nails reflects, our article "What Our Nails Reveal About Our Health" provides further information.
Olive oil, a nourishing treatment for fragile nails
Olive oil is a natural product traditionally used to restore suppleness and shine to brittle nails. Thanks to its richness in fatty acids, it helps to soften dry nails and deeply nourish the nail matrix, the area from which the nail forms.
To reap the benefits, simply massage a few drops of olive oil gently into your nails, ideally every day. This simple step can be incorporated into an evening routine, for example, before bedtime.
Lemon, a simple way to revitalize nails
Lemon is another traditional remedy for brittle nails. Known for its natural antiseptic properties, it is also used for its brightening effect on yellowed nails. To naturally strengthen nails , a weekly treatment with lemon juice can be beneficial.
The most common method involves mixing fresh lemon juice with a vegetable oil, such as olive oil, and then applying this mixture to the nails with a light massage. It is advisable to avoid this treatment before sun exposure, as lemon can be photosensitizing.
Green myrtle essential oil for damaged nails
Green myrtle essential oil is traditionally used for its regenerative properties on weakened and brittle nails. It is known to promote cell renewal and support healthier nail growth , while also improving the appearance of the skin around the nail.
Like all essential oils, it must be used with caution and always diluted in a neutral vegetable oil before application, such as sweet almond oil, which also provides a moisturizing effect. Its use is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children, except on the advice of a healthcare professional.
Other tips to complete your routine
In addition to these three remedies, several simple actions can help strengthen fragile nails over time.
A warm soak with a teaspoon of sea salt for about ten minutes is traditionally used to harden nails and stimulate blood circulation in the fingers. Honey, known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, can be applied in a thin layer to the nails to reduce splitting and nourish the keratin. Finally, after applying a repairing oil or cream in the evening, putting on cotton gloves can promote the penetration of the active ingredients overnight.
These different steps work together to nourish and protect the nail in the long term. Combined with a balanced diet, they help to restore stronger nails over time.
Food, a source of support from within
Nail strength doesn't depend solely on external care. A diet sufficiently rich in protein, iron, zinc, and biotin (vitamin B8) contributes to the proper functioning of keratinization. Collagen, naturally present in certain foods like bone broth or taken as a supplement, is sometimes cited for its role in the structure of supporting fibers, although its effects specifically on nails remain to be confirmed by further studies.
If the nails remain fragile despite these measures, or if they show unusual changes in color, texture, or shape, it is recommended to consult a doctor to rule out an underlying cause, such as a deficiency or a specific pathology.
Information on nutrition and hair health is available on the Anses website.
Frequently asked questions about brittle nails
How long does it take to see results on brittle nails?
Nails grow slowly, about 3 mm per month on average. It generally takes several weeks, or even two to three months, of regular care to see a visible improvement in nail strength.
Does nail polish worsen nail fragility?
Repeated application of nail polish, and especially frequent use of acetone-based removers, can dry out the nail and make it more brittle. It is advisable to alternate with periods without polish and to use gentle removers.
Can a deficiency cause brittle nails?
Yes, certain deficiencies in iron, zinc, or biotin can result in fragile, brittle, or ridged nails. If in doubt, a blood test performed by a doctor can check these parameters.