We put our hands through a lot — cleaning, sanitizing, day-to-day wear and tear. And if your nails are feeling it, we’ve got you covered with some products that can help you DIY your way to healthier nails. From press-on nails you can throw on for special events to nontoxic nail polish for everyday use, we’ve rounded up some of our fave products that’ll get your hands back on track.
A once-a-week, three-step nail renewal system…
Dermatologist Dr. Dana Stern developed this simple solution to heal dry and brittle nails. It only takes 10 minutes to complete the three-step process, which involves a glycolic prep for exfoliation, a priming wand for buffing and absorption, and a hydrating formula to strengthen the nail and give it shine. It’ll leave your nails glossy and a little stronger with each use. Plus, if you buy a few at a time, you’ll save some cash. BRB, adding to cart. ($30, Dr. Dana)
Press-on nails with trendy nail art…
These are perfect for a special occasion or event — all you have to do is glue them on and go. We love the colorful mini French and pink cow-print styles. You’ll get 30 nails in each set, with 15 different sizes. Plus, each set comes with all the tools you’ll need to prep and finish your nails — like a storage box, nail glue, double-sided nail file, cuticle stick, and alcohol pad. Take ’em off the same day or leave ’em on for up to three weeks. It’s a perfect mani in 3, 2, 1… ($14.99+, Amazon)
Clear press-on nails for a DIY minimalist mani…
If nail art isn’t for you, try this clear option instead. You’ll get 500 pieces in 12 varying sizes. These are perfect for adding length or achieving your desired nail shape — choose from almond, coffin, square, or oval. All you’ve gotta do is buff ’em, stick ’em, and coat ’em in your fave top coat. Pro tip: If you’re looking for a natural finish, add a couple layers of this nude OPI shade. ($12.99+, Amazon)
Super-strong nail glue for acrylics and tips…
Say ‘see ya’ to broken nails and loose tips. This nail glue is compatible with all nail tips, and reviewers say it works better than regular acrylic polymer — the average stay time is around two weeks. Plus, it’s quick-drying and comes with a fine precision brush applicator for less mess. ($12.99, Amazon)
A manicure nail kit with alllll the equipment…
Aka 18 stainless steel tools — everything from nail clippers to cuticle scissors to nose hair trimmers (OK, these aren’t for a mani, but might come in handy). They come in a lightweight case in either pink or black that’s easy to toss in your bag. Lookin’ fresh. ($9.99+, Amazon)
A polish treatment that’ll get you to stop biting your nails…
Because sometimes you need a lil’ help kicking bad habits. This goes on like a regular clear polish and stays on for two to three days. Customers rave about their results — from nixing anxiety-induced nail biting to stopping children’s thumb-sucking habits in their tracks. Psst…you only need to use a small dot of the treatment — a little goes a long way. ($15.50, Amazon)
A nail strengthener for nails that need some TLC…
We’re talking dry and brittle, soft and thin, or sensitive and peeling ones. This formula’s got hydrolyzed wheat protection and calcium to help you get longer and stronger nails. Oh, and there’s also an original formula that comes in four tinted shades and one matte. Restoring your nails to tip-top shape has never been easier. ($17.99+, Amazon)
Hair, skin, and nail gummies for your morning routine…
Nature’s Bounty tropical citrus gummies have 100 mg of collagen and biotin per serving to support hair and nail growth. Plus, antioxidant vitamins C and E to promote healthy skin. And they don’t contain artificial flavors, sweeteners, lactose, or gluten. ($6.69+, Amazon)
Water-based, nontoxic nail polish…
Say goodbye to your standard polishes and swap ’em for these eco-friendly, totally organic options. You’ll get six odor-free polishes with no chemical solvents in a mix of neutral and bright shades. This formula is quick drying (no UV light necessary) and can be peeled off. Pro tip: Prime your nails before applying and stay away from water for four hours after you use it to help it last longer. ($19.99, Amazon)
A three-day nail strengthener…
Packed with keratin — the hardening protein that builds nails. Soft and weak nail layers will absorb the keratin’s amino acids to help improve your nail health stat. All you have to do is apply two coats of the formula onto clean, dry nails every three days. Salon-level nail beds? Check. ($3.88, Amazon)
An award-winning cuticle serum…
And it comes with two of ’em — one for your home and one for on the go. This serum is super hydrating and absorbent and it doesn’t leave your hands feeling greasy or oily. We love the soft foam tip that allows for controlled application, and the convenient packaging that’s virtually spill-free. Win. ($30, Olive and June)
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