At professional nail salons, it’s common to see guests frustrated by slow nail growth. Fortunately, simple routine adjustments can have a noticeable impact. Because your nails reflect your overall health, caring for your body is key to helping nails grow stronger and quicker.
What Determines Nail Growth
On average, nails grow about 3 millimeters per month, though this can change depending on factors like age, genetics, and health. Younger individuals often see their nails grow faster compared to older adults.
Diet is a major influence on nail development. Nails consist mainly of keratin, a protein that develops properly only with adequate nutrition. Poor diets stunt growth and cause brittleness, resulting in nails that break easily.
Additionally, stress, certain medications, and hormonal shifts can slow nail growth. Staying hydrated helps nails remain flexible and less likely to split.
Eat for Healthy, Strong Nails
Since keratin is a protein, getting enough protein is essential. Regularly include lean meats, fish, eggs, or legumes.
Biotin is important for nail strength and growth. Eggs, nuts, seeds, and sweet potatoes are rich sources. Many notice an improvement in nail texture after increasing biotin intake for a few weeks.
Iron and zinc are also vital for nail health. These minerals are found in leafy greens, red meat, beans, and whole grains. Omega-3s from fish help moisturize nails internally, reducing the risk of dryness and peeling.
Moisturize and Protect Your Nails
When nails dry out, they are more prone to breaking and remain short. Applying cuticle oil daily maintains flexibility and moisture. Massaging the oil into the cuticle and nail bed can also boost circulation.
Do not cut your cuticles, as they safeguard the nail’s growth area. Instead, push them back carefully when softened and keep them moisturized.
Gloves should be worn during cleaning or manual activities. Harsh chemicals and water exposure can weaken nails and slow their growth. Nail polish can offer some protection—always use a base coat to avoid staining.
Avoid Practices That Harm Nail Growth
Biting your nails can harm the nail bed and change growth permanently. This habit may also introduce bacteria, which can halt nail development.
Avoid using your nails to open things or as tools, as this causes small cracks and leads to breaks.
Always file in one direction and avoid sawing motions. Use acetone-free nail polish removers and limit removal to once per week to prevent loss of natural oils, which keep nails healthy.
Support and Maintain Your Nail Growth
Achieving longer nails naturally calls for steady care and patience. By focusing on balanced nutrition, daily moisturizing, and protection from damage, you can see lasting improvements in nail growth and strength.
Book a Nail Growth Consultation
Start your journey to healthier, longer nails with expert care and tailored advice. Consistent support and the right routine can help you achieve noticeable results over time.
📞 Call to book: (615) 431-0122
📍 Location: 298 Indian Lake Blvd, Hendersonville, TN 37075
Experience customized nail care solutions for natural growth at VSL Nail Spa II at Indian Lake.
