In the age of ever-evolving nail trends, we are paying more attention than ever to our manicures. While a chic polish shade or a fresh set of acrylics can make our nail dreams come true, they can also jeopardize the health of our natural nails. But, as many of us know, getting your natural nails back to their longest and healthiest state is no easy feat.
Nowadays, there are tons of over-the-counter nail health products for achieving stronger, longer nails, but if brittle, breaking nails are persistent for you, you may need to consider a stronger solution. Ahead, a board-certified dermatologist and renowned aesthetician share everything you need to know about prescription nail strengtheners, including who they’re best for and why.
Features Experts
- Daniel Schlessinger, MD is a dermatologist in Omaha, NE
- Amy Peterson is a medical aesthetician and founder of Skincare by Amy Peterson Clinic
How do prescription nail strengtheners work?
“While they can function in various ways, nail strengthening treatments often work by binding keratin protein in your nails, making them feel harder by coating nails with a lacquer-type substance to create a barrier against friction or environmental factors that contribute to damage,” begins Dr. Schlessinger. “However, since brittle nails can range from mild to severe and can be caused by a myriad of factors, sometimes the best course of action is to visit a board-certified dermatologist. They can help you pinpoint the cause of your brittle nails, which can include vitamin deficiencies, age, genetics, frequency of acrylic or gel manicures, environmental factors, underlying health conditions, excessive hand washing, exposure to chemicals and even fungus.”
“If fingernail or toenail fungus is the primary concern, over-the-counter nail strengthening treatments and home remedies like tea tree oil will do little more than delay proper care,” Dr. Schlessinger continues. “A board-certified dermatologist can prescribe effective antifungal pills, topical treatments or a combination of both if necessary to help your nails regain their health and strength. Just remember, patience is key when it comes to clearing fungus in the nails as it can take many months to treat effectively.”
The best over-the-counter, derm-recommended nail strengtheners
“I highly recommend Agent Nateur Holi Mane ($99) as a nail-strengthening supplement,” says Peterson. “This supplement is packed with a blend of organic ingredients like biotin, silica and amino acids, which are essential for promoting healthy nail growth and preventing breakage. Nails tend to become brittle during winter and Holi Mane can help nourish them from the inside out. My staff and clients have experienced noticeable improvements in their hair, skin and nail strength after incorporating this supplement into their routine. I always have it available at my office so clients can easily add a scoop into their coffee and try it themselves.”
In terms of dermatologist-recommended products, Dr. Schlessinger says, “DermaNail Nail Conditioner ($37) is a dermatologist-formulated product I highly recommend for strengthening nails. It helps improve the appearance of nails prone to chipping, cracking, peeling, splitting, or being weak and thin. It uses an acetyl mandelic acid solution, an alpha hydroxy acid, which helps harden the nail plate, conditioning the whole nail rather than just coating it like a lacquer. It’s best followed up with Cutemol Emollient Cream ($15), which replenishes needed moisture and provides additional protection for your nails and cuticles.”
“One of my favorite dietary supplements to help strengthen nails is the Viviscal Professional Hair Growth System ($160),” Dr. Schlessinger continues. “Even though these supplements are primarily prescribed for premature hair shedding and hair loss, there is overlap for strengthening nails. Hair and nails are both primarily comprised of keratin, so they rely on the same vitamins and nutrients to stay healthy and strong. These supplements are 100 percent drug-free and are formulated with biotin, apple extract, vitamin C and AminoMar, an exclusive marine complex that provides strengthening benefits.”
