Broken, weak, or brittle nails can be frustrating, especially if you love having beautifully manicured hands. There are several reasons why nails may become fragile or prone to breaking, and with the popularity of UV manicures, understanding how to protect and strengthen your nails is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide to why nails may be breaking, how to maintain their health, and tips for preparing them for UV gel manicures.

Why Do Nails Become Weak and Brittle?

Several factors contribute to nail fragility, including lifestyle, nail care habits, and even diet. Let’s look at the most common causes.

1. Frequent Exposure to Water and Chemicals

Exposing nails to water or harsh cleaning products too often can weaken them, causing them to become brittle and prone to splitting. Water causes nails to expand and contract, making them more susceptible to damage over time.

• Solution: Wear gloves while doing chores, and apply a strengthening base coat to create a barrier against water and chemicals.

2. Improper Use of Nail Tools

Over-filing, especially with coarse nail files, or using improper techniques can lead to weakened nails. When you file too aggressively, you thin out the nail plate, which makes it more likely to break.

• Solution: Use a fine-grit file and file in one direction to avoid splintering. Always avoid aggressive buffing to prevent thinning the nail plate.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of essential nutrients like biotin, iron, and protein can impact nail strength. Nails, like hair, are made of keratin, which relies on a balanced diet to stay healthy.

• Solution: Incorporate more protein, iron, and vitamins like biotin in your diet. You can also consider taking a nail-strengthening supplement if recommended by a healthcare professional.

4. Frequent or Improper UV Manicures

Hybrid manicures, while popular for their durability, can weaken the nails if not applied or removed properly. Overuse of acetone and improper nail prep are common culprits.

• Solution: Allow your nails time to “breathe” between UV manicures, and be gentle during removal. Soak-off methods with acetone should be done carefully to avoid stripping or damaging the nail surface.

Preparing Nails for a UV Gel Manicure

Healthy nails are key to a long-lasting UV manicure. Here’s how to prepare them for optimal results and durability.

1. Start with Clean, Dry Nails

Nail polish adheres best to dry surfaces, so start by cleaning your nails with a nail cleaner or alcohol wipe to remove oils and residue. This ensures better adhesion and prevents lifting.

2. Push Back and Hydrate Cuticles

Gently push back your cuticles  using pusher rather than cutting them, as cutting can lead to infections and weaken the nail bed. Regularly use cuticle oil to keep the cuticles soft and healthy, which helps the UV gel polish last longer.

3. Use a Base Coat with Strengthening Properties

A quality base coat acts as a barrier between the nail and the UV polish, helping to protect the natural nail. Semilac offers strengthening base coats that not only improve polish adhesion but also add extra support to weak nails.

4. Opt for a Nail Hardener or Strengthening Serum

For those with naturally weak or thin nails, applying a nail hardener or strengthening serum for a few weeks before a UV manicure can make a big difference.

5. Avoid Over-Buffing

Buffing is often done to smooth the nail surface, but overdoing it can thin out the nail plate. If you choose to buff, use a gentle buffer and avoid pressing too hard. Ideally, only light buffing is needed to remove shine.

How to Care for Nails Between UV Manicures

Giving your nails some TLC between manicures can help them stay strong and ready for the next application. Here’s what to do:

1. Take Breaks Between Manicures

Give your nails time to “rest” between UV gel applications. This allows them to recover from exposure to acetone and UV light. A week-long break every few months can make a big difference in nail health.

2. Moisturise Regularly

Hybrid manicures can sometimes dry out the nail surface. Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated with nourishing oils. Semilac’s Cuticle Oil, enriched with vitamins, provides deep moisture and helps prevent peeling.

3. Apply Strengthening Treatments

In between UV manicures, apply strengthening treatments or nail hardeners that help rebuild the nail structure. Look for treatments rich in keratin, calcium, and biotin, as these ingredients help restore nail resilience.

4. Avoid Peeling Off Polish

Peeling off UV polish can damage the top layers of your nail, leading to thin, weakened nails. Always use an acetone soak-off method instead, and follow up with a hydrating treatment afterward.

5. Be Gentle with Your Nails

Avoid using your nails as tools, which can lead to chipping and breaking. Small habits, like opening cans with your fingertips instead of your nails, can help reduce stress on your nails.

Final Thoughts

Keeping nails strong and resilient takes some mindful care, especially when UV gel manicures are part of your routine. By addressing the common causes of nail weakness, preparing your nails properly, and using strengthening products, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting manicures without compromising nail health. With a little attention and the right products, your nails can be strong, healthy, and ready to take on any manicure style you desire.