Nail polishes may seem like a quick way of getting shiny nails, but they may not be the best choice for nail care and hygiene. But here are some shiny nail secrets for you. Your nail polishes are most probably loaded with chemicals that dry out your nails and cuticles. The preservative in their formula becomes a barrier and prevents oxygen from penetrating the nail. It is only natural that your nails look dry and damaged due to the lack of proper oxygen to the cuticles surrounding them. Also, pedicures and aesthetics are essential for proper grooming and lifestyle. Shiny nails are made with good nutrition and natural remedies available right in your kitchen! So, it is high time you take a break from regularly painting your nails and give them some breathing space. Scroll down for some ideas!
In This Article
1. How To Make Nails Shiny?
2. Infographic: 5 Effective Tips For Shiny Nails
3. Frequently Asked Questions
4. Key Takeaways
5. Illustration: How To Make Nails Shiny And Healthy At Your Home? - Simple DIYs
How To Make Nails Shiny?
Maintain Good Health
Many people get behind nail products that claim to strengthen and lengthen nails like magic within fewer days. We spend a huge amount of money on them, but the result is always zero. Our nails are still brittle, dry, weak and lifeless. Have you ever wondered why they don’t work? Because you need to be healthier first to achieve shiny nails, not only the topical treatments work. It could be due to a vitamin deficiency. Your nails can reflect your overall health, and deficiencies in certain nutrients can lead to brittle, discolored, or ridged nails. Always nails reflect our overall health so do also check them carefully. Foods rich in B-complex, Iron, Vitamin A,C,D and Calcium are very essential for nail health. Include fresh vegetables, nuts, whole grains and greens to get those nail vitamins. Drinking of at least 8 glasses of water every day is also necessary to maintain good nail health. Remember, healthy nails always shine!
Petroleum Jelly Works
Yes, petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) can be very beneficial for nails and cuticles. Here’s how it works and the benefits it provides:
1. Moisturizes Dry Nails and Cuticles
- Hydration: Petroleum jelly is a great moisturizer. It forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture, preventing nails and cuticles from becoming dry and brittle.
- Cuticle Care: Regular application on cuticles can soften them, reducing dryness and cracking. It also promotes healthy nail growth by keeping the nail bed hydrated.
2. Prevents Nail Peeling and Breakage
- Strengthening: By moisturizing the nail plate, petroleum jelly helps prevent nail peeling, splitting, and breaking, especially for people with weak or damaged nails.
3. Promotes Nail Growth
- Improved circulation: Regular massaging of petroleum jelly into the nails and cuticles stimulates blood flow, which can support nail growth.
4. Adds Shine
- Natural Gloss: Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to your nails can make them look shinier and healthier without the need for polish.
How to Use Petroleum Jelly for Nails:
- Apply at Night: Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly on your nails and cuticles before bed. Put on cotton gloves or socks (if applying to toenails) for overnight moisturizing.
- Daily Use: You can apply it daily after washing your hands to prevent dehydration and maintain softness.
- Pre-manicure: Use it before a manicure to hydrate your nails and protect the surrounding skin.
Petroleum jelly is an affordable, effective way to keep your nails healthy, strong, and shiny!
Homemade Nail Soaks For Shiny Nails
Isn’t it natural to make your own nail soaks from kitchen ingredients? Of course, it is very easy too, you can make one in seconds. Regular maintenance, such as doing a manicure at home, not only keeps your nails looking good but also strengthens them over time. Many of the kitchen ingredients contain antioxidants, which are essential for nail health. They strengthen nails and make them look beautiful and shiny. Check out the following recipes and try them in your leisure time to become the owner of shiny beautiful nails.
- Olive Oil For Nails
Olive oil is an excellent natural potion found in most of the cosmetic products and it does wonders in healing damaged brittle nails. Heat the olive oil until it is warm, remember not hot. Now pour this in a bowl and dip your nails into the warm oil. If you’re doing this for your toe nails, make the tub big. Leave on for 2 minutes, take out your hands and wear cotton gloves. You can leave this overnight or for an hour as per your wish. Wash off with fresh water and moisture with a good hand and nail cream after that. On a similar note, A YouTuber shared her thoughts on what habits one can incorporate to improve nail health. She said, “So, I take one drop of oil on the palm of my hands, and I kind of smear it around my nails. Then I take a tiny amount of lotion and rub it in (i).” The blogger emphasized that it’s not the amount of oil that you apply but the consistency of it that’s what matters. She also stated that this technique does not leave hands feeling greasy.
2. Milk
Don’t have time or just feeling lazy? Leave your worries. Pour some warm milk into a bowl and dip your nails into the milk. Wait for a few minutes, let your nails absorb nourishment from the milk. Wash off and moisturize with a nail cream or even a cold cream.
3. Rose Water
Mashed avocado mixed rose water also acts as a nourishing nail soak.
Brittle and dull nails get nourished and moisturized by following this nail soak regularly. Good nourishment is the key to shiny nails.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is excellent for nail care due to its moisturizing, nourishing, and protective properties. Here are the key benefits of using coconut oil for nails and how to use it:
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Nails
- Moisturizes Dry Nails and Cuticles
- Coconut oil is a natural emollient that helps hydrate and soften dry nails and cuticles, preventing them from cracking or peeling.
- It creates a protective barrier that seals in moisture, keeping nails and the surrounding skin hydrated.
- Strengthens Weak Nails
- The nutrients in coconut oil, particularly the medium-chain fatty acids, nourish nails and cuticles, helping to strengthen brittle or weak nails and reduce breakage.
- Fights Nail Infections
- Coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help combat nail infections, such as fungal infections or paronychia (inflammation of the skin around the nails).
- Promotes Nail Growth
- Regular application of coconut oil improves blood circulation in the nail bed, which can support healthier and faster nail growth.
- Prevents Hangnails
- By keeping cuticles well-moisturized, coconut oil helps prevent painful hangnails and reduces irritation around the nails.
- Adds Natural Shine
- Applying coconut oil regularly gives nails a natural glossy finish, making them look healthier and shinier without the need for nail polish.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Nails
- Coconut Oil Massage:
- Warm the Oil: Gently heat a small amount of coconut oil (optional, just until warm).
- Massage: Rub the oil onto your nails and cuticles in circular motions for 5-10 minutes. This boosts circulation and enhances absorption.
- Frequency: Do this daily or at least 2-3 times a week for the best results.
- Overnight Treatment:
- Apply coconut oil generously on your nails and cuticles before bed.
- Wear cotton gloves (or socks for your feet) to lock in moisture and prevent the oil from rubbing off while you sleep.
- DIY Coconut Oil Nail Soak:
- Mix warm coconut oil with a few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil (for additional antifungal properties).
- Soak your nails for 10-15 minutes, then gently massage the oil into your nails and cuticles.
- Post-Manicure Care:
- After a manicure or any nail treatment, use coconut oil to soothe your cuticles and prevent them from drying out.
Best Type of Coconut Oil for Nails
- Virgin Coconut Oil: Opt for pure, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil as it retains more nutrients and is free from additives, making it the best option for nail care.
Coconut oil is a natural, safe, and effective way to maintain healthy nails and cuticles while protecting against damage and infections.
Important Tips to be Remembered:
- Avoid acetone-based nail polishes if you want shiny nails. They make your nails brittle and damaged for sure.
- Wear gloves while doing household works, such as washing clothes and dishes, as they may lead to peeling of nails.
- Maintain a healthy diet with biotin and zinc supplements after consulting your physician. This works great and shows faster results.
- Make sure to follow nail care tips and tricks is essential for long-lasting, healthy nails.
Infographic: 6 Effective Tips For Shiny Nails
We know how annoying it is to maintain shiny nails. Keeping them clean can be quite tiresome and may also require many salon visits. No worries, we’ve got your back! Check out the infographic below to take a look at the most effective ways to brighten your nails right at home.
While regular usage of nail polishes may give you shiny nails, in the long run, it may lead to dry and brittle nails. It’s important to prioritize nail health and beauty. Instead of spending too much money on nail polishes or artificial nails, eating a healthy diet rich in vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, and drinking plenty of water will straighten and add shine to your nails. You can make homemade nail soaks with olive oil or milk to keep your nails hydrated. Additionally, exfoliation and buffing are crucial for removing dead skin cells and promoting healthy and shiny nail growth. Following these shiny nail secrets mentioned in this article will keep your nails strong and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are my nails not shiny?
Poor nutrition, improper digestion, frequent contact with chemicals such as detergents and harsh soaps, and overuse of nail polish, filers, or gel nails are reasons why nails lose their healthy sheen.
2. Does alcohol make gel nails shiny?
Alcohol can thoroughly remove any dirt and grime on the nails and prepare it for a coat of gel nails. While it does not directly make gel nails shiny, it helps clean up the nails and remove any residue that can interfere with the gel nails sticking properly to your nails.
3. Are there any particular nail products or tools that can help improve nail shine?
Nail glosses or top coats as well as buffer boards are nail products and tools that can help improve nail shine. For those interested in achieving a smooth nail surface, learning what nail buffing is and how to do it at home can help you maintain a polished look.
4. How do I care for my cuticles and surrounding skin to enhance nail appearance and shine?
To enhance nail appearance, you can moisturize your cuticles and surrounding skin daily, avoid cutting them, and gently push them back.
5. What are some potential causes of nail damage or weakness, and how can I prevent these issues from affecting nail shine?
Poor diet, using harsh chemicals, constant nail paint and nail art application with breaks and excessive filing can cause nail damage. Have a balanced diet, wear gloves, take breaks between nail art sessions, and use gentle products on your nails to achieve shiny nails.
Key Takeaways
- Clean and file your nails before moisturizing your cuticles.
- Maintain a healthy and balanced diet to ensure that your nails receive the best nutrition.
- Avoid applying acetone-based nail paints as they make your nails brittle.
- Wear protective gloves while handling soaps or chemicals to avoid nail injury.
Illustration: How To Make Nails Shiny And Healthy At Your Home? – Simple DIYs
Making your nails shiny and healthy at home can be easy and fun! Here are some simple DIY tips and techniques to help you achieve beautiful nails:
1. Nail Soak
- Ingredients: Warm water, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Instructions:
- Mix equal parts of warm water and olive oil with a few drops of lemon juice.
- Soak your nails for about 10-15 minutes.
- This mixture will moisturize and strengthen your nails while giving them a natural shine.
2. Exfoliating Scrub
- Ingredients: Sugar, olive oil, or coconut oil.
- Instructions:
- Mix sugar with a tablespoon of olive or coconut oil to create a scrub.
- Gently massage the scrub onto your nails and cuticles for a few minutes.
- Rinse off and pat dry. This will remove dead skin cells and promote healthy nail growth.
3. Nail Oil Treatment
- Ingredients: Jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, or almond oil.
- Instructions:
- Apply a few drops of your chosen oil to your nails and cuticles.
- Massage the oil in for a few minutes.
- Do this daily to nourish and hydrate your nails, enhancing their shine.
4. Homemade Nail Polish Remover
- Ingredients: Vinegar and lemon juice.
- Instructions:
- Mix equal parts of vinegar and lemon juice.
- Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and wipe it over your nails.
- This gentle remover is less harsh than commercial products and can help keep nails healthy.
5. Use a Buffer
- Instructions:
- Use a nail buffer to gently buff the surface of your nails.
- Buffing smooths out ridges and adds shine.
- Be careful not to over-buff, as this can weaken the nails.
6. Healthy Diet
- Tips:
- Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as leafy greens, nuts, eggs, and fish.
- Ensure you’re getting enough biotin, which is known to strengthen nails.
7. Stay Hydrated
- Tips:
- Drink plenty of water to keep your body and nails hydrated.
8. Limit Chemical Exposure
- Tips:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and detergents without gloves.
- Use nail products that are free from toxic ingredients.
9. Regular Maintenance
- Tips:
- Trim and shape your nails regularly to prevent breakage.
- Keep your cuticles moisturized and avoid cutting them.
By incorporating these simple DIY methods into your nail care routine, you can achieve shiny and healthy nails from the comfort of your home!
Personal Experience:
Getmakeup’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.
