The health of your nails is important not only for appearance but also for overall health. Weak and brittle nails can be a sign of an underlying health condition or nutritional deficiency.

Luckily, there are natural materials you can use to strengthen your nails and improve their appearance.

Why are my nails weak?

Weak and brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the causes include:.

Dehydration
Poor nutrition
Exposure to harsh chemicals and water
Medical conditions like anemia, hypothyroidism, and psoriasis
Genetics

Natural materials to strengthen nails

There are several natural materials you can use to strengthen your nails. These include:.

1. Olive oil

Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants that can improve the health and appearance of your nails. Massage warm olive oil into your nails and cuticles for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains fatty acids and vitamins that can help strengthen and moisturize your nails. Massage coconut oil onto your nails and cuticles before bed and leave it on overnight for best results.

3. Lemon juice

Lemon juice is a natural bleach that can help remove stains and discoloration from your nails. Soak your nails in lemon juice for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that can help strengthen your nails and prevent fungal infections.

Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl and soak your nails in the solution for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

5. Biotin

Biotin is a B-vitamin that is essential for strong and healthy nails. You can increase your biotin intake by eating foods like eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes, or by taking a biotin supplement.

6. Horsetail

Horsetail is an herb that contains minerals like silica that can help strengthen your nails. You can drink horsetail tea or take a horsetail supplement to improve the health of your nails.

7. Green tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can improve the health and appearance of your nails. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down, then soak your nails in the tea for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

8. Aloe vera

Aloe vera contains enzymes that can help strengthen and moisturize your nails. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and apply the gel onto your nails and cuticles, then massage for a few minutes and let it dry.

9. Shea butter

Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that can help improve the health and appearance of your nails. Massage shea butter onto your nails and cuticles for a few minutes, then let it absorb for a few hours or overnight.

10. Flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can help strengthen your nails and prevent brittleness. Add a tablespoon of flaxseed oil to your smoothies or salads to increase your intake of this essential nutrient.

Conclusion

Using natural materials can help improve the health and appearance of your nails. By incorporating these foods and remedies into your daily routine, you can strengthen your nails and prevent common nail problems like brittleness and discoloration.