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As a nail tech, it’s your job to protect the health of your client’s nails (as well as your own too!). We all know back-to-back nail appointments, whether it’s gel nails or acrylics, can do a number on your nails without the right care between sessions. That’s why it’s essential to know when to step in and suggest that your clients take a break, or when they should start using a high-quality nail treatment as part of their nail care routine.
In this guide, we’ll go through the best nail treatments for weak nails on the market right now. From OPI to nails.inc there are a whole host of options to choose from and add to your nail tech kit. We’re sure your clients will thank you in the long run.
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Why is nail strengthener important?
The clue’s in the name. Nail strengthener is that secret ingredient you need to boost the rigidity and strength of the nail bed, preventing brittle nails and breakage in the long run. The health and strength of your nails can be influenced by various factors, including repeated nail treatments. That’s why it’s important to invest in a nail strengthener that can help to keep the nail beds in tip-top shape. They’re also great for:
- Promoting nail growth
- Protecting against environmental factors
- Preventing peeling and splitting
- Improving overall nail health
- Enhancing appearance
It’s important to note that while nail strengtheners can help to reverse some of the damage from nail files and overlays, it’s also crucial to maintain good nail care practices, such as keeping nails clean, moisturised and trimmed. Relaying this information to your clients will help them prioritise their nail health and keep them coming back!
What are the tell-tale signs a client should take a break from nail enhancements?
As a nail tech, it’s crucial that you make the best decisions for your clients’ nail health, even if that means denying them a service from time to time. Taking a break from nail treatments can help to improve nail health, as it gives time for a new nail bed to grow out (up to 6 months). But how can you tell when your client should take a break? Here are our tell-tale signs:
- Thin or weak nails: If the natural nails have become noticeably thinner or weaker, it’s a sign that they may need a break. Continuous use of nail enhancements, especially if they involve harsh removal processes, can weaken the natural nails over time.
- Peeling or splitting: Persistent peeling or splitting of the natural nails can be a sign of damage. Nail enhancements may sometimes contribute to the nails becoming brittle, leading to issues like peeling or splitting.
- Soreness or discomfort: If the client experiences pain, soreness, or discomfort around the nail bed or the surrounding areas, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. This could be a sign of irritation, infection, or damage to the natural nails.
- Inflammation or redness: Inflammation or redness around the nail bed may indicate an allergic reaction or irritation caused by the materials used in nail enhancements. Continuing with enhancements in such cases may exacerbate the issue.
- Lifting or lifting product: If the artificial nails are consistently lifting or if the product is lifting away from the natural nail, it can create an entry point for bacteria or fungi, leading to infections. This is a clear sign that a break is needed to allow the natural nails to recover.
- Changes in nail shape: Unnatural changes in the shape or curvature of the natural nails may indicate that the enhancements are causing stress or damage. This is especially true if the nails are becoming excessively curved or distorted.
- Persistent allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to certain ingredients in nail enhancement products. If a client experiences persistent redness, itching, or swelling, it’s important to discontinue the use of enhancements and identify the cause of the allergic reaction.
- Excessive roughness or thinning of nail plates: If the nail plates have become excessively rough or thin, it may suggest that the natural nails are being overly filed or buffed during the application or removal of nail enhancements.
- Fungal or bacterial infections: If there are signs of fungal or bacterial infections, such as discolouration, changes in texture, or an unpleasant odour, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and allow the nails to heal.
Nail hardeners vs nail strengtheners: what’s the difference?
You may have seen these two terms before, but sometimes they’re used interchangeably when they’re both very different products. We break the key differences down for you:
| Nail strengtheners: | Nail hardeners: |
| Purpose: Nail strengtheners focus on improving the overall strength, flexibility, and resilience of the nails. | Purpose: Nail hardeners are primarily designed to make the nails harder and more resistant to breaking or splitting. |
| Formulation: These products may contain a variety of ingredients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and conditioners, to nourish and fortify the nails. They often aim to address issues such as brittleness, peeling, and weakness. | Formulation: Nail hardeners often contain ingredients like formaldehyde or other strengthening agents that harden the natural nail plates. |
| Application: Like nail hardeners, nail strengtheners are usually applied as a base coat. They work to enhance the natural nail structure over time. | Application: They are typically applied as a base coat and may be used regularly to provide a protective layer that hardens the nails. |
It’s worth noting that while both nail hardeners and nail strengtheners can provide benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone, and their effectiveness can vary based on individual nail conditions. Additionally, some nail hardeners may contain ingredients like formaldehyde, which can be harsh and may cause irritation in some individuals. Therefore, it’s important to choose products carefully and consider your clients’ specific nail concerns.
The best nail treatments for weak nails
Okay let’s get to the action, what are the best treatments for weak nails? Here are some of our favourite options…
The best cuticle oils
Nails.inc Vit C Please Nourishing Cuticle Oil
Enhanced with vitamin C and vitamin E to nourish and care for the nail beds and cuticles. This also comes with a fresh zesty scent, what’s not to love!
£9.00
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
Jessica Phenomen Oil Intensive Moisturiser
A phenomenal addition to any nail care routine, this Jessica cuticle oil is formulated with vitamin E, almond oil and rice oil to hydrate and nourish nails.
£15.98
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
essie Nail Care Apricot Oil Cuticle Treatment
You can’t go wrong with an essie cuticle oil in your collection. This fruity formula contains a 75% concentration of apricot kernel oil to invigorate the nails.
£8.99
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
The best nail hardeners
Mavala Scientifique Nail Hardener
If your nails are prone to splitting or flaking, this formula is perfect for you. This Mavala treatment hardens the nail plate so that your clients’ nails can grow long and strong.
£16.99
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Rating: 4 out of 5.
Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Hardener
Easily one of the best nail treatments for weak nails, all it takes is 5 to 7 days to grow healthy-looking nails with this Sally Hansen strengthener!
£5.99
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Rating: 4 out of 5.
Sally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure Nail Polish – Hardener
This high-grade vegan formula has everything you need to restore your nails to their former glory. Designed to be used as a top coat and nail hardeners.
£9.99
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Rating: 4 out of 5.
The best nail strengtheners
essie Nail Care Hard to Resist Nail Strengthener
A beautiful, tinted nail strengthener designed to prevent nails peeling and splitting. Plus, your nails will look shiny and pink too!
£10.99
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Rating: 4 out of 5.
OPI Nail Envy – Nail Strengthener Treatment
Fortified with OPI’s cutting-edge Tri-Flex Technology™, a liquid shield for the nail bed. This nail strengthener also comes in an array of colours so you can look presentable whilst healing your nail beds.
£21.90
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
Back To Life Strengthening Nail Treatment
Bring your nails back to life with this nourishing nail treatment from nails.inc. This featured a patented formula, enriched with active oils to improve nail health in just 3 weeks.
£15.00
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
The best nail growth treatments
Nourishing what’s on the inside will show on the outside. That’s why investing in a supplement like Perfectil is so important. Featuring a cocktail of micronutrients to grow long strong nails.
£12.92
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Nail Care Treatment
Salon-tested and dermatologist-tested, you can’t go wrong with this Sally Hansen nail growth treatment. The triple-protein and silk formula works overtime to reinforce soft and weak nails.
£7.99
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Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
If speed is the aim of the game, this keratin nail treatment is the right solution for you. A quick-dry polish that helps to stop peeling and chipping, so that your nails can grow stronger within 3 days.
£12.50
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Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Nail care blogs to read…
The best nail dust collectors for a sterile salon
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How to remove gel nails like a pro
by Dot Edgar
Ultimate Mylee Gel Polish Review: Affordable and Effective
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