h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

apparently there's not much you can do. there are things you can buy, nail-strengtheners, but as far as I have heard from people who use them, they never really work.

some people believe brittle nails are inherited.
some believe that it is to do with the way you shape your nails.
some believe it is to do with a lack of certain vitamins.

*shrugs*
I have nice strong healthy nails.
(only part of me..)

Never use a metal file on your nails, use an emery board instead.
Try eating raw jelly.
Always leave time between varnishing your nails, for your nails to "breathe".
Varnish strips the nails of their top layer.
Apply a base coat first, then the nail varnish.
Use a proper nail varnish remover, never "pick off" the flaking old varnish.
In between polishes, you can buff your nails, for a healthy glow.
Above all, keep your fingernails clean!

Never pick off the flaking nail varnish?
But that's *therapy* to me..

I always pick off my varnish, I really don`t think that what you do to your nails will prevent or cause them to be brittle. They`re mostly protein, so I think eating lots of Jello or meat or beans will help...anything for protein.

Still, I`ve never had nail problems.

Have I mentioned A613955 on nailpolish and related stuff? Well, I think I mentioned it to AGB before, at least. Oh well.
-myre

I can't stand the feel of nail varnish - it makes my hands feel dirty

I'm with you on the nail varnish thing PQ!

Always, always, always wear gloves when cleaning. Those detergents knock hell out of hands and nails.

Or alternatively hire a cleaner

And advise him to always wear gloves!

To keep your nails healthy and growing, massage your finger tips. Squeeze them pinch them whatever you need to do to get the blood circulating. This will promote growth.

Almond oil is fantastic for 'feeding' your nails and keeping them strong. I use 'Solar Oil' you paint just a little bit on, massage it into your nail and cuticle then leave to be absorbed.

It does feel greasy for a minute but it leaves your nails smooth and shiny for days!

Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle and Nail stuff is good too. It's totally natural and has vitamin E in it. I don't know if that's particularly great, but Burt's Bees has a lot of 99.8% natural stuff that is good for the skin and such. I'm a big fan.