How to Strengthen Nails According to Dermatologists
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Olga Shefer
If you want to learn how to strengthen nails, chances are you’ve suffered a broken nail or two. Whether you’re obsessing over the trendiest nail designs of 2025 or trying out new nail polish colors for your at-home manicure, having strong and healthy nails is important.
When your nails are feeling weak and brittle, nail strengthener is a great option for bringing them back to health. However, it’s important to note that chipping and breakage can be a sign of many things outside of just the usual wear and tear. So, it’s important to identify what the root causes of weak nails are in order to adequately make them stronger.
“Weak nails can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, especially in biotin, iron, or calcium,” explains Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Shafer Clinic in New York City. “Excessive chemical exposure can also weaken the nail bed. I also suggest examining your overall diet and lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking, to identify potential causes.”
Dr. Engelman also notes that thyroid disorders or chronic illness can also be the culprit for weak nails, and if that is indeed the issue, results from nail strengthening products might be limited.
The good news for anyone with weak nails—especially from Russian manicures, dip manicures, gel manicures, acrylic nails, and acetone nail polish remover—is that nail strengtheners actually work, and with some changes, it is possible to make your nails stronger. “Nail strengtheners can work effectively to improve the strength and durability of nails,” says Ali Shahbaz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin. “Regular use can help protect nails from breaks and splits.” When used consistently they can repair weakened nail beds and act as a protective shield.
If you want to learn more about how to get healthier nails, read on to see what the experts have to recommend.
Can you strengthen nails?
The answer is yes. Both experts agree with a combination of lifestyle changes, it’s possible to make nails stronger and healthier. “You can strengthen your nails through proper nutrition, hydration, and by using quality nail care products,” says Dr. Shahbaz. “A consistent nail care routine also plays a significant role.” He says that it’s generally a good idea to apply a nail strengthener two to three times a week or as directed by the product.
What is the best treatment for weak nails?
There isn’t one cause for brittle nails, so in that same vein, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution or product. Dr. Engelman recommends a combination of strategies to help tackle this issue, and when it comes to products, it’s important to look for formulas with keratin, collagen, or plant-based oils for the best results.
“Vitamin supplements including biotin can be helpful, but only if you are biotin deficient (which is extremely rare),” she says. “Using a high-quality liquid nail strengthener can provide a protective layer while nourishing the nails.”
Dr. Shahbaz recommends using the OPI Nail Envy Original, which is “known for building nail strength,” and the Sally Hansen Diamond Strength to “help promote hard, healthy nails,” both available on Amazon. He also likes the Nail Tek system, since it “offers a variety of strengthening treatments tailored for different nail types.”
OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener Clear
$20.00, Amazon
Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Nail Hardener
$8.00, Amazon
Nail Tek Nail Recovery System
$20.00, Ulta
“Implementing a combination of these products and nutritional strategies can significantly improve the strength and health of your nails,” he adds.
How do I make my nails stronger naturally?
Along with topical ways to strengthen nails, a balanced diet is just as important—if not more—for maintaining nail health. “Nutrition is the foundation of nail health,” says Dr. Engelman. She advises patients to choose foods that are rich in protein, calcium, Vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acid. “If you’re unable to meet these needs, a multivitamin with these nutrients can be a great addition,” she explains.
Dr. Shahbaz further breaks down why each of these food groups is important to nail health and strength.
Biotin: Foods rich in biotin (egg yolks, nuts, and whole grains) support nail health.
Protein: Adequate protein intake through foods like lean meats, fish, and legumes are vital as nails are made of keratin, which is a protein.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Incorporate sources like fatty fish and flaxseeds to improve nail flexibility.
Zinc and Iron: Foods like spinach, beans, and red meat can help prevent weakness.
What am I lacking if my nails are weak?
Dr. Engelman recommends blood tests from a health care professional to check for any deficiencies like biotin, iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D. She notes that these are essential for nail growth and repair. “If deficient, oral supplementation can be quite helpful,” she says. “Using these in tandem with a topical strengthener can maximize efficacy.”
Dr. Shahbaz adds, “Keeping nails trimmed, avoiding excessive exposure to water and harsh chemicals, using gentle, moisturizing hand soaps, and wearing gloves when doing housework to protect nails can help.”
What are the best vitamins for strong nails?
“A biotin supplement is considered the gold standard vitamin for nail strength, but it only helps if there is a true biotin deficiency,” says Dr. Engelman. “Iron and vitamins C and E are also very essential. These nutrients boost collagen production, protect against oxidative stress, and promote healthy growth.”
Nature's Bounty Optimal Solutions Hair, Skin & Nails Vitamin Gummies with Biotin
$10.00, Amazon
WELLBEL Women Clean Supplement for Hair, Skin, and Nails
$70.00, Amazon
OLLY Undeniable Beauty Gummy For Hair, Skin, Nails
$14.00, Amazon
Originally Appeared on Glamour
