What to do with my nails?!

nearzero

I have terrible nails... always have! They are thin, weak, and peel and split all the time. I have tried taking every supplement under the sun, I cannot take soya due to a sensitivity so Perfectcil & the like are out.

I take all the supplements - Vitamin E, Selenium, Botin, Evening Oil of Primose - you name it! But over the years, nothing has improved them.

The only thing that does work is Formula 2 by Nailtiques but its expensive & still they arent great!

Anyway, getting married in October - I've had Shellac/Gelish nails before but they tend to peel off my nails after the first week, making it not really worth while Doesnt help that I own a horse so my nails get alot of abuse despite wearing gloves even for grooming - they get caught on stuff & tear really easily.

I was going to just say feck it & get nail extensions but I'm not even sure my nails are strong enough to hold them, the top third of my nail is paper thin & can get sore Does ANYONE have any suggestions as to what to do for my wedding?? Advice from a Nail Technician would be fantastic!

Sadderday

Hi,

I dunno if this is any use to you... but I have weak nails, they break when I'm getting dressed in the morning.

I've found shellac peels off too. My nails can bend if i press on them and never seemed to grow.

I've tried everything. Sally Hansen - hard as nails is good. It's clear and does seem to make them a little stronger.

In the long term, I went for an allergy test and the guy asked to see my nails... he told me to try Pharmepa. I got them in the chemist (they were 34.99!) .... just one capsule a day.

I've been taking them 2 months and for the first time ever (and I've tried everything too) my nails are strong, a healthy colour, good tips and lenghts and I can file them without them bending !

Not sure if it will help you, but I know how you feel.... !

nearzero

Oh thanks a mil - I've never heard of that before but am willing to try anything! Do you mind me asking what chemist you got them from?

I've tried a good few Sally Hansen products but like that, they are good but not great

Thanks a mil!

iwantmydinner

Hi OP, I was the same, and am terrible at taking supplements so never even tried that route, it would have been a waste of money. I focussed instead on my nailcare routine and it's really paid off. I was haphazard enough with it - used to clip instead of file to save time etc but I invested in a glass nail file and I take the time every couple of days to look after them and haven't looked back. My nails are considerably stronger and as a result they are a lovely length and shape and break/peel far less frequently.

Sadderday

I got them in my local chemist in the sticks but as far as I know you can get them anywhere.

He told me that there is a cheaper option, its about half the price and you would take 2-3 a day of them. If you ask in boots I'm sure they would know the name or could advise you.

I think its contains fish oil or something? I'm not sure I just tried it cos I have a lovely engagement ring and horrible nails I was desperate.

I thought it was iron deficiency and went for all sorts of blood tests over the years, this was the only thing that improved my nails (hair is stronger too actually).

I really hope - given the price of it, that it works for you as it has for me. Wouldn't suggest it otherwise.

I'm sure the pharmacist could offer more info on it.

Best of Luck!

Lainomac

I suffer the exact same thing, My nails are like something from a horror movie, I have tried to girly them up with Shellac and it literally peeled off after 2 days, they peel and break and feel like paper they're so thin... My GP suggested that I start taking folic acid and up my protien intake. I mentioned it to one of my friends who has amazing nails and she said she has been taking folic acid for years now. Worth a try

nearzero

iwantmydinner wrote: »

Hi OP, I was the same, and am terrible at taking supplements so never even tried that route, it would have been a waste of money. I focussed instead on my nailcare routine and it's really paid off. I was haphazard enough with it - used to clip instead of file to save time etc but I invested in a glass nail file and I take the time every couple of days to look after them and haven't looked back. My nails are considerably stronger and as a result they are a lovely length and shape and break/peel far less frequently.

Thanks a mil - I'm pretty good with the nailcare & yes, once I read about Glass nail files, I went out & got a really good one! I have to say I love it but it didnt really do too much in terms of helping my nails but I love using it, much nicer than older style files!

nearzero

Thanks a mil everyone - folic acid & Pharmepa on the shopping list Sadderday - I think it could be like Udos oil which I've read is good for nails too but I couldnt stomach drinking it, plus its mega money! So I think the Pharmepa would be a better option

Thanks again all

iwantmydinner

color_girl wrote: »

Thanks a mil - I'm pretty good with the nailcare & yes, once I read about Glass nail files, I went out & got a really good one! I have to say I love it but it didnt really do too much in terms of helping my nails but I love using it, much nicer than older style files!

Oh that's a pity, the glass file and paying better attention has literally transformed my nails. I guess different things work for different people! good luck!

Think I'll look into the folic acid as well!

MsBubbles

My nails would be prone to peeling and chip easily. I found a glass nail file really useful, I've tried a few and for me the best one is by Leighton Denny it's not cheap about €20. I'm getting married in 2 weeks and my nails are in pretty good shape.

Miaireland

I used to have problems with shellac peeling and found when I changed salons that the problem stopped, the salon I used to go to was using a knock off version of shellac.

Also when you have shellac on it is very important to use solar or cuticle oil twice daily to prevent peeling/chipping.