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Although achieving significant nail growth within five days is unlikely, there are methods to optimize nail growth. Strengthening and safeguarding your nails can facilitate their growth. Additionally, adopting effective nail care routines can improve nail health. For those prone to nail biting, there are strategies to prevent this habit.
Steps
Strengthening and Protecting Your Nails
Apply a Nail Hardener. Consider applying a nail hardener to strengthen and protect your nails during the growth process. This can prevent chips and breaks that may necessitate trimming your nails prematurely.
- Keep in mind that the hardening effect is temporary and wears off once the product is removed. Reapply the nail hardener daily to maintain nail strength.
- Nail hardener should complement a broader, long-term nail care regimen aimed at enhancing natural nail strength.
Shield Your Hands from Harsh Conditions. When facing cold weather or handling chemicals, always wear gloves to protect your nails. Whether it's chilly outdoors or dealing with household or art chemicals, opt for latex or heavy-duty gloves as needed. This precautionary measure helps prevent nail breakage.
Maintain a Balanced Diet. Consuming adequate protein is essential for nail health, but excessive protein intake can lead to health issues. Opt for a diverse diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat dairy for strong nails.
Consider Biotin Supplementation. Biotin supplements can strengthen brittle nails, reducing the risk of breakage and promoting faster growth. Incorporating biotin-rich foods into your diet can also aid nail growth. Biotin supplements are readily available in various stores, with a typical adult dosage of 30 micrograms per day.
Nurturing Your Hands and Nails
Nourish Your Hands and Nails with Moisturizer. Incorporating moisturizer into your nail care routine is crucial for maintaining nail health. Regular moisturizing protects nails from dryness, promoting strength and length. Apply moisturizer several times daily, especially after handwashing, using a thick, creamy lotion, and massaging it into nails and cuticles.
Trim Away Rough Edges. Quickly address tears or frayed edges on nails by clipping them with nail clippers to prevent further damage. Promptly clipping jagged edges prevents potential nail loss and discomfort. For less severe edges, consider filing them down.
Tend to Your Cuticles. Protecting and softening cuticles is essential for nail health and growth. Soften cuticles by soaking fingertips in warm, soapy water before gently pushing them back with an orange-tipped cuticle pusher. Massage cuticles to enhance blood circulation and nail strength, avoiding cutting them to prevent bleeding and infections.
Opt for Rounded Nail Shapes. Choose rounded or pointed nail shapes over square ones to minimize snagging and breakage. Square nails are prone to catching on surfaces, leading to quicker breakage. If you prefer square nails, ensure to soften the edges to reduce catching.
Halting Nail Biting Habits
Self-Manicure. Maintaining well-groomed nails can deter nail biting tendencies. Regular manicures, including trimming, filing, and applying polish, can discourage nail biting behavior, especially if nails are kept clean and polished.
Handle Stress Effectively. Managing stress can reduce nail biting urges. Strategies such as increasing physical activity, practicing yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help alleviate stress and decrease the inclination to bite nails.
Keep Hands Occupied. Keeping hands busy reduces the likelihood of nail biting. Engaging in activities like playing instruments, knitting, crocheting, making jewelry, cooking, or baking can distract from nail biting tendencies.
Seek Professional Support. If attempts to stop nail biting have been unsuccessful, consulting a therapist or mental health professional can provide guidance. Therapists can address underlying causes of nail biting and assist in developing strategies to overcome the behavior.
Helpful Suggestions
The insights shared in this section are drawn from the real-life experiences of Mytour readers like yourself. If you have a valuable tip you'd like to contribute to Mytour, please share it with us below.
- Keep your hands occupied with activities like fidget toys, games, or crafts to prevent nail biting when feeling stressed or bored. Engage in activities that keep your hands busy.
- Opt for filing your nails instead of cutting them if you aim for longer nails. Filing maintains the shape while promoting length.
- Utilize a bitter-tasting polish or liquid to deter nail biting. The unpleasant taste serves as a deterrent when tempted to bite.
- Maintain daily moisturization of nails and cuticles to nourish and stimulate nail growth. Massage with a rich, creamy lotion for best results.
- Avoid gel manicures, as they can harm the nail bed. Opt for regular or shellac polish for healthier nails.
- Regularly clean under your nails during the growing phase to prevent bacteria buildup. Use a nail brush as part of your daily routine.
