How people take care of their hands and nails reflect directly their overall personal hygiene. Growing long and strong nails is a multi-step process. As long as you take good care of your nails, you can grow them to the length you desire. Below is simple ways to follow
Lemon Juice
The Vitamin C in lemons facilitate the healthy growth of nails. Lemons also help in removing yellow nail stains since they act as a bleaching agent.
- In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the solution for about 20 seconds and soak your nails in it for 10 minutes. Do this two days a week. Also you can rub a slice of lemon on your nails for about five minutes before washing them off with warm water.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains nutrients that provide moisture and nourishment for the nails and the skin around the nails. This, in turn, ensures healthy and strong nail growth. Coconut oil is also great for treating fungal infections in the nails.
- Warm up some extra virgin coconut oil in a bowl and massage it into your nails and fingers. Massage in circular motions. This will help in the circulation of blood, which will promote nail growth. Do this night before going to bed a twice a week.
Orange Juice
The Vitamin C in the orange juice can help in the production of collagen that keep your nails strong and healthy.
- Squeeze out the juice from an orange into a bowl. Soak your nails in it for 10 minutes and wash them. Don’t forget to moisturize them properly.
Olive Oil
In order to ensure that your nails are healthy and growing strong, it’s important to keep them nourished and moisturized. Olive oil contains Vitamin E, which improves blood circulation and facilitates nail growth.
- Heat up some olive oil and massage it into your nails and cuticles for about five minutes. Wear gloves and let it sit overnight. Alternatively, you can soak your nails in warm olive oil for fifteen to twenty minutes.
Stop these Bad Habits
Biting Your Nails
Stop the habit of biting your nails on a regular basis. This habit leads to multiple bacterial infections that slow down the growth of the skin and nails in that area. Try keeping your nails polished so that you make a conscious effort not to bite them.
Skipping the Base Coat
When you apply nail polish, make sure to not skip the base coat. This acts as a protective layer between your actual nail polish and the top layer of the nail.
Chipping off Your Nail Polish
Avoid doing this at all costs! When you chip off nail polish, you’re most likely peeling off the topmost layer of your nail. This will only make your nails weak and brittle.
Excessively Use Gel and Acrylics
If you go to the salon to get gel or acrylic nails too often, you’re not giving your natural nails the time to grow in strength. Gels and acrylics are great once in a while, but don’t make this a regular habit since they will affect the natural growth process.