It’s the most annoying thing ever (to me): I spend money and time making my manicure look great. So I don’t want to have any breaks if I can manage it! Here are my top tips on how to avoid breaking a nail.

How to avoid breaking a nail

How to avoid breaking a nail

Your nails are jewels, not tools

When you reach for that can of drink, a box or parcel, don’t attack it bare handed! Use scissors, a pen, a piece of cutlery, anything but your nails to open up the treat inside.

Your nails are jewels not tools

How to avoid breaking a nail: Your nails are jewels not tools

Putting intense pressure on your nails like this is really likely to cause a break.

Keep your nails strong and hydrated

Cuticle oil is normally my recommendation for any problems with nails.  With oil, your nails are hydrated, and they use it to grow stronger and more resilient.

Apply it at least once a day, and try my seven-point plan for caring for your nails and cuticles.  When my nails are in need of TLC, I like RescueRxx from CND.

Keep your nails strong and hydrated

How to avoid breaking a nail: Keep your nails strong and hydrated

Add a supplement into your diet if you are deficient – I’m a vegetarian so I take kelp tablets and vegetarian omega oils.  Your nails and hair are one of the last to benefit from nutrients, so it’s worth considering.

Don’t forget to file

Maintaining your nails in a neat shape helps to prevent breaks in the long run. Short nails suit an active, outdoor lifestyle, and rounded edges are less likely to catch.

A more squared off style might suit someone who spends a lot of time at a keyboard.

Don't forget to file

How to avoid breaking a nail: Don’t forget to file

Find out what works for you, and keep your nails filed evenly into shape. I prefer a glass file, like this one from Rainbow Connection.

Keep a nail file handy

As well as keeping your nails shaped, keep any rough edges or catches in check on the go. A nail file is a lightweight addition to your bag.

If you can file out that catch before it breaks, you’ve saved your nail!

Keep your nails painted!

Not that I’ve got a vested interest here or anything, but my nails feel stronger and break less when they are painted.

The polish is an extra, harder layer which keeps your nail plate safe. Beware of chipping, it exposes the edges and corners of your nails (and it’s dangerous for your eye health!).

Keep your nails painted

Keep your nails painted

Take off your old polish regularly and add a fresh manicure and paint job.

How to avoid breaking a nail

So, now you have my 5 top tips on how to avoid a broken or chipped nail. Once you get into the habits I’ve learnt, you can have stronger, longer nails too!

How to avoid breaking a nail ¦ Pinterest

How to avoid breaking a nail ¦ Pinterest