Dull and rough nails are not just a cosmetic defect, but a signal from the body about internal problems or aggressive external influences. The appearance of nails depends on nutrition, lifestyle, care, and hormonal balance. Below are proven ways to make nails smooth and shiny without using nail polish.
What Affects Nail Health
- Nutrition and Lifestyle. A lack of protein, B vitamins, and trace elements, dehydration, and strict diets make nails brittle and dull.
- Condition of the Body. Problems with the thyroid gland, anemia, metabolic disorders, and chronic stress reflect on the nail plate.
- Manicure and Care. An inexperienced technician or aggressive tools can damage the nails.
- Contact with Chemicals and Water. Constant hand washing without gloves dehydrates the nails and destroys the protective layer.
How to Make Nails Smooth and Shiny
1. Use Gloves
Wear gloves for all work with household chemicals. After contact with water, thoroughly dry your hands and nails.
2. Fine Grit Files
Use glass or ceramic files with a grit of 240 or higher. File the nails in one direction only — from the edge to the center.
3. Nail Polishing
Polishing gives nails smoothness and shine. Use a block with 3–4 abrasives, starting with coarse and finishing with fine. Do not polish more than once a month to avoid thinning the plate.
4. Moisturizing with Natural Oils
Daily, rub a few drops of oils (jojoba, almond, argan) into the nail plate and cuticle for deep hydration.
5. Nourishing Creams
Use thick creams and nail wax to protect against moisture evaporation and mechanical damage.
6. Proper Nutrition
Eat foods rich in protein (eggs, meat, fish, legumes) and vitamins A, B, C, E. Trace elements: iron — against brittleness, zinc — for regeneration, silicon — for nail density.
7. Do Not Use Nails as Tools
Do not open cans, scrape labels, or press buttons with your nails — this leads to cracks and splitting.
8. Monitor Hormonal Balance
Problems with the thyroid gland or fluctuations in estrogen affect nail growth and strength. If the condition worsens, consult an endocrinologist.
9. Careful Work with Cuticles
The cuticle protects the nail growth area. Do not aggressively cut it; gently push it back with an orange stick and use a remover.
