Despite the fact that nails are composed of dead cells, they serve a purpose and are vital. The hard-to-see nail plate protects the tips of the fingers and toes.

Have you ever wondered how nails and hair develop if they are formed up of dead cells?

Keratinization is the process by which they grow. Nails, like hair and skin, are mainly formed of keratin, a hardened (tough) protective protein. 

While hair comes from the hair follicle, nails grow from the matrix, which is located at the base of the nail bed. Epithelial cells make up their structure. 

The aging cells are driven out, compressed, upwards from the skin as epithelial cells proliferate and multiply in the hair follicle and matrix. 

They die, and their crushed, stiffened form (nail plate) is transformed into nails and hair. Hair and nails keep developing as long as they are properly nourished.

It is crucial to have strong nails since nails and nail care are essential for better health. Here are several nail-care myths exposed, along with simple nail-strengthening tips.

Nail Care Myths and Truths:

The following are some of the most popular nail-care myths.

1) Myth about Cuticles

Myth: To enhance nail health and healthy cuticles, hold your cuticles pushed back.

Fact: Most dermatologists advise against cuticle trimming and manipulation.

The cuticle acts as a natural barrier, protecting the roots of the nails and the tissues around them from bacterial and fungal infections.

Trying to push them back can prove problematic and harmful to your nails in the long run.

2) Myth about Nail Coverings

Myth: To make nails stronger, use nail polish, nail hardener, acrylics, and gelatin that include hardening ingredients.

Fact: It is one of the most popular nail-care misconceptions. There is no clinical evidence to support this view.

Polishes containing such chemical components can make nails less flexible and stiffer, making them more susceptible to shatter when exposed to a sharp, rapid impact.

In the long term, such artificial alternatives will not result in stronger and healthier nails.

3) Myth about Fungal Treatment

Myth: A Topical Fungus Treatment Will Benefit In The Treatment Of A Fungal Nail Infection

Fact: While there are many medicines on the market to treat fungal infections, the truth is that only a few of them can penetrate the nail plate (hard visible portion).

The most effective strategy to battle the illness from the inside is to get an oral prescribed medication from a dermatologist.

4) Myth about Artificial Nails

Myth: Artificial Nails Will Make Your Nail Problems Go Away

Fact: Covering a nail issue under fake nails will increase the condition and is not a smart option. Contact a dermatologist for a safer remedy and to learn how to strengthen your nails.

List of 9 Simple Nail Strengthening Techniques

If you’re looking for some simple methods to improve the strength of your nails, this list below will guide you.

1) Don’t Bite Your Nails & leave them Alone

Stop chewing your nails, which is an extremely harmful habit that brings a large amount of damage.

When saliva comes into touch with nails, they become brittle, mushy, and weak. 

Furthermore, bacteria and filth pass from your fingers to our lips. It also damages cuticles and increases the risk of bacterial infection in the mouth and fingers. 

When people are frightened, anxious, or have nothing better to do, they bite their nails (bored).

How to Stop Biting Your Nails?

• When you’re bored, chewing gum is a good way to pass the time.
• To avoid unintentional nail biting, request the support of family and friends.
• Consider meditating or seeing a therapist to help you control your anxiety.
• Trim your nails on a regular basis.

2) Reduce your water contact

Dermatologists strongly suggest avoiding prolonged water contact because it softens the nails.

Due to overhydration, the nail bed swells as the water gets absorbed and compresses as moisture disappears, leaving the nail bed vulnerable to peeling.

It is advised that less time should be spent in the pool and the hot shower.

To protect your nails and hands from dangerous substances (cleaning detergents) and prolonged water exposure, wear gloves.

One of the most crucial easy recommendations for growing stronger nails is to keep your hands and nails dry and clean.

3) Make sure you get plenty of water

Keeping yourself hydrated is the ultimate health secret and also the key to great skin, nails, and hair.

To experience and look better, drink enough water. While consuming water is more commonly associated with skin, it is also one of the simplest ways to strengthen your nails.

4) Cut and clean your nails on a regular basis.

Cut your nails cleanly with a nail cutter, then form them with a smooth cushion file instead of a metal file.

Trim your nails at least once a week, as this is a vital aspect of nail care as well as a simple way to strengthen your nails.

5) Always use a protective base and top coat

Basecoat preserves the skin and prevents discoloration and staining of the nails. Add a preventive layer of base coat before applying chemicals like nail polish.

A top coat protects the nails from chipping and adds gloss, as well as extending the life of the manicure color.

6) Applying moisturiser is always recommended

Dryness and puffiness are terrible for nails, therefore moisturize them to make them stronger. Because nails are so sensitive, they are prone to breaking.

Use moisturizing oil, cuticle oil/cream, or hand creams to maintain nails and cuticles nourished, glossy, and healthy.

This is also a crucial step in some of the most simple ways to strengthen your nails.

7) Eat a balanced diet

It is the key to resolving the majority of health issues as well as having stronger nails. Everything will be fixed if you eat well.

Calcium shortage and a lack of vitamins (like A, B, D, H, and E) in your meals can cause brittle nails.

8) Be Careful When Using Nail Polish Remover

To avoid damaging your nails, always use acetone or an alcohol-free nail polish remover. Use chemical-free brand removers that are excellent for the environment.

9) Intake of biotin-containing foods

Biotin (vitamin H or B7) is a water-soluble vitamin that improves nail and hair strength and growth.

As a result, it aids in the treatment of brittle nail syndrome. Mushrooms, bananas, whole grains, and other biotin-rich foods are excellent sources.

Conclusion

The fingertips of our hands and toes are protected by our nails. These methods will help you create healthy, beautiful, and stronger nails. 

Some simple recommendations for growing stronger nails include taking proper care of your nails, making them clean and dry, cutting and polishing them, using moisturizers, and eating healthy foods.

It is recommended that you get medical advice from a dermatologist if you have a more significant problem.