If you’ve ever dealt with brittle, peeling nails you know how frustrating it can be. Weak nails that split and crack easily not only look unattractive, but they can also snag on fabrics and be painful. This leaves many wondering what they can do to help strengthen nails and stimulate growth.<\/p>\n
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Using vegetable oil alone is not likely to lead to significant nail growth or strength improvements<\/b>. However, some types like coconut oil provide moisture that helps protect nails when used regularly.<\/p>\nWhat Causes Nails to Be Weak and Slow Growing<\/h2>\n
Lack of moisture<\/h3>\n
Keeping nails properly hydrated is crucial for healthy growth. When nails become dry and brittle, it can lead to peeling, cracking and breakage. Lack of moisture affects the keratin structure, making nails weak and prone to damage.<\/p>\n
Using moisturizing products like cuticle oils and hand creams can help retain moisture and prevent dryness.<\/p>\n
Nails require certain vitamins and minerals for optimal growth and strength. Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins (biotin), vitamin C, vitamin E, iron and calcium can all contribute to poor nail health.<\/p>\n
Getting adequate amounts of these nutrients can help nails grow faster and stronger. Foods high in these nutrients include citrus fruits, leafy greens, eggs, nuts and seeds.<\/p>\n
Exposing nails to harsh chemicals or UV radiation can damage the nail bed and matrix where growth originates. Chemicals in cleaning solutions, solvents and nail products can cause irritation and peeling. UV light from sunlight can slow growth and cause discoloration or brittleness over time.<\/p>\n
Wearing gloves during chemical exposure and using SPF finger creams can help shield nails from these damaging elements.<\/p>\n
Applying oils such as vegetable, coconut, and olive oil to the nails and cuticles creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture and prevents the nails from becoming dry and brittle (1). The oils seal the layers of keratin in the nails, shielding them against external damage.<\/p>\n
This allows the nails to grow out healthily without cracking or peeling.<\/p>\n
The protective oils also fortify nails against harmful UV rays. Unprotected exposure to sunlight can weaken nails over time. The oil’s hydrophobic barrier deflects UV rays to maintain structural integrity. This safeguards against sun damage like yellowing and reduced elasticity.<\/p>\n
Oils are occlusive emollients, meaning they prevent moisture loss by forming a hydrating film on the nails and surrounding skin (2). This addresses dryness and hydrates the nail bed for vigorous growth.<\/p>\n
Moreover, oil soaks into the nail plate, softening the keratin layers from underneath. The added elasticity wards off brittleness, allowing nails to achieve their maximum potential length before they might otherwise snap or split.<\/p>\n
Natural plant-based oils are packed with nourishing components like essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that benefit nail wellness (3):<\/p>\n
For example, olive oil harbors vitamin E while sunflower oil contains vitamin A. Coconut oil supplies lauric acid to reinforce the nail structure. When applied routinely, these replenishing nutrients will restore luster and vitality.<\/p>\n