The Best Nail Strengtheners

OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener

Dynamic duo

This nail strengthener and cuticle oil will get your fingertips in tip-top shape in no time.

Best Overall

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For an excellent all-around nail treatment, this strengthener and cuticle oil combo can’t be beat. The strengthener is infused with hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium for hard, healthy nails. At the same time, the nourishing oil provides lightweight moisture with a mixture of grape seed, sesame, sunflower, kukui, and cupuaçu oils. The treatment is intensive, with two coats of strengthener the first day and one every other day for a week, along with twice-daily applications of cuticle oil. But we think it’s well worth the effort for strong natural nails and soft, moisturized cuticles.

Pros:

• Protects nails from breakage
• Contains vitamins to help nails grow
• Replenishes cuticles

Cons:

• Must be reapplied every other day
• Not ideal for use under nail polish

Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream

Pot of gold

You can use this convenient strengthener at any time with a variety of manicures.

Best Cream

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With a subtle coconut scent and deep moisturization, this cream will make your nails feel like they’re on vacation. The tried-and-true formula has been on the market for over 25 years and contains vitamins, minerals, and emollients that help protect and restore the moisture barrier of your nails so that they can grow harder and longer. Unlike polish-type strengtheners that must be applied to bare nails, you can use this cream with any type of manicure along the cuticles and underside of the nail for extra nourishment. It can also be used alone to fully absorb into your nail beds, perfect for a little TLC in between manicures.

Pros:

• Can be used on cuticles and under nails while wearing nail polish and acrylics
• Enriched with vitamins A, C, D, and E
• Pleasant coconut scent

Cons:

• Absorbs best when applied directly to the nails rather than over polish
• Doesn’t create a hard protective coating

Nail Tek Strengthening Base Coat

Smooth it over

If you struggle with ridged or peeling nails, this strengthener is the one for you.

Best Base Coat

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Ridged, peeling nails can be an unfortunate side effect of wearing acrylic nails or using strong detergents while washing dishes, but fortunately, there’s a simple solution. You can wear this base coat underneath your regular polish to help repair your nails and give them the attention they deserve. It is formulated especially for soft nails and contains strengtheners, moisturizers, micro-fibers, and fillers that even out the surface of your nails and provides excellent adhesion for nail polish. Besides fixing your nails’ outer layer, the strengthener has vitamins and natural oils that will help them grow healthier than ever before.

Pros:

• 100% cruelty-free
• Prevents yellowing from nail polish
• Helps keep nail polish from chipping

Cons:

• Dries to a matte finish rather than a shiny polish
• Cannot be used as a topcoat

Probelle Nail Strengthener

Shine like a star

Specially formulated for damaged nails, this strengthener promotes growth and leaves a lustrous sheen.

Best For Growth

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Long nails are trendy, and they mean more room for bright polish and fun designs. Reaching that length naturally can be difficult, but products formulated for strength and growth can help you achieve long, healthy nails. Probelle’s strengthener can be used underneath nail polish to prevent damage while restoring brittle, thin, soft, or fragile nails. It includes alpha hydroxy acid to encourage quick cell turnover and hexanal for hardening, as well as a variety of moisturizers and vitamins to help you achieve the vibrant nails of your dreams.

Pros:

• Glossy finish
• Can be used alone or under nail polish
• Repairs damage while protecting against future harm

Cons:

• May chip off if you wash your hands frequently
• Must apply every day if you need an intense treatment

Ella + Mila Nail Strengthener

Go green

For chemical-free care, this natural strengthener is the way to go.

Best Natural Option

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Some products contain chemicals that dry out your skin, which is the exact opposite of what weak, brittle nails need. This strengthener is formulated without many common chemicals, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin without compromising effectiveness. It is also produced without animal testing and made with all vegan ingredients, making it a sustainable choice. And since you can use it alone or as a base coat, it is a versatile option for your nail care collection.

Pros:

• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Made in the USA
• Doesn’t contain formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP)

Cons:

• It is tinted slightly pink, which may affect the look of nail polish
• Although it can be used as a base coat at any time, the full course of treatment takes four weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I see results?
Some benefits are immediate. Brush-on strengtheners provide an extra physical layer of protection for your nails, while creams help moisturize your nail beds and create sturdy, flexible nails. Products containing vitamins and minerals promote growth and strength over time as the nutrients are absorbed. A fingernail takes about six months to grow in completely, so patience and consistency are key.

How often should I apply a nail strengthener?
It depends on the formula, but most brush-on strengtheners instruct you to apply them once every day or two, removing all the layers at once at the end of the week. After the intensive treatment, you can use them under nail polish or when your nails need some extra love. Cream strengtheners can be applied multiple times a day or a couple of times a week, depending on the level of care your nails require.