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Here, I tested several out, ranging from simple nourishing oils (surprisingly effective!)
Courtesy of brands / Original image byGlamourcontributor / Gabrielle Langdon
to multistep routines complete with buffing and even pre-polish base coats.
Its like using a serum before a moisturizerit makes it work better.
I see a significant difference in just one program.
Original photo from Talley Sue testing Dr. Dana Nail Renew System
This is a staple, she says.
In all my years using nail strengtheners, this one is a game changer.
Meesh says this is a great option for anyone who wears peel-off gel nails like they do.
Original photo from Talley Sue testing Essie On a Roll Apricot Nail & Cuticle Oil
The glycolic-acid treatment is great for my dry cuticles and flaking nails.
Youre never truly hydrating if youre not removing the dry, dead skin.
Meesh also prefers applying both products at night before bed, so my skin can really soak it in.
Original image byGlamourtester
This needs to be absorbed, which takes a few minutes.
Then you use the three-surfaced file to scuff the surfaces of the nails through subsequently finer grits.
This was really helpful, because it minimized the ridges.
Original image byGlamourtester
I loved the buffing process and that polished look, and my cuticles and nails clearly needed the nourishment.
Hydrating my nails is not something I ever thought of.
And if I drop it, which I might, theres no mess.
Original image byGlamourtester
Brie Schwartz,Glamours commerce director, also counts this drugstore strengthener among her favorites.
After just one use, I feel a difference.
It has a milky-white hue, so its also a great solution if your nails are yellowing.
And there has been no chipping after five days and a lot of dishwashing.
Its the only one on the market that she completely swears by.
Overall, I always turn to Rejuvacote for hardening and strengthening.
Original image byGlamourtester
Theres really nothing like it, says Sunshine.
Celebrity manicuristPattie Yankeeis a fan as well.
Ive seen great results with my clients, she says.
Original image byGlamourtester
It seals in moisture and promotes nail growth without over-hardening the nail.
I personally loved the neutral tint it gave my nailsjust like my natural color, but better.
After wearing it for a week, I felt confident going to my gel-manicure appointment.
Original image byGlamourtester
While Reed also shouts out OPI and Sally Hansens strengtheners, she says nothing beats Blue Crosss multitasking wonder.
OPIs Nail Envy is one of the few strengthening products I swear by to do the trick.
I also put this one to the test and had great results.
Original image byGlamourtester
While my nails felt and looked nourished, I did still experience some snagging.
Cuticle oils are great, but a serum or hand cream can help nourish both hands and nail beds.
I keep another one by my bed and apply it before bed every night, says Asami.
Original image byGlamourtester
Your nail-strengthener questions, answered
What causes brittle nails?
Still, external factors can cause weak, thin, or brittle nails.
So can regular use of acetone or other harsh nail polish removers.
Even frequent exposure to water and detergents can cause your nails to become brittle, says Le.
Do nail strengtheners really work?
Yes, nail strengtheners can help your nails grow stronger.
Original image byGlamourtester
This is especially important afterremoving geloracrylics, since part of the nail is filed off, she explains.
What is the most effective nail strengthener?
It will strengthen brittle nails that peel, split, and break easily.
Original image byGlamourtester
Many so-called nail strengtheners contain damaging ingredients like formaldehyde, formalin, and methylene glycol, says Dr. Stern.
Thats why youll want to look for products labeled at least 3-free (the higher the better!
), which means thesepolishes avoid the toxictrio of the ingredients dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, and toluene.
Original image byGlamourtester Breeonne Reed
How can I strengthen my nails naturally at home?
Some nail treatments require daily software and removal after seven days.
She recommends using these products as a preventive measure rather than reactively.
Original image byGlamourtester Breeonne Reed
And if youre trying to grow out damaged nails, its best to avoid polish altogether.
Le also stresses the importance of removing any old polish or residue.
Some nail strengtheners require daily app, while others are applied every few days or weekly, she says.
Once your nails have strengthened, you might reduce the frequency of app to maintain the results.
Whats the difference between a nail hardener and a strengthener?
Some strengtheners look similar to nail hardeners, but the two serve different purposes.
Original photo from Talley Sue testing OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
The problem is, they stop working as soon as you remove them.
Original photo from Talley Sue testing OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
Original photo from Talley Sue testing CND Rescue Rxx Daily Keratin Treatment
Original photo from Talley Sue testing CND Rescue Rxx Daily Keratin Treatment
Original image byGlamourcontributor Asami
Original image byGlamourcontributor Asami
