Some of the best tips on how to make your nails grow faster include using a strengthening base coat, keeping nails hydrated, and avoiding frequent contact with cleaning products. These habits help prevent nails from becoming weak, dry, and brittle, which can slow down healthy growth.
On average, nails grow about 0.1 mm per day, or about 2 to 3 mm per month. To support nail strength and growth, it is also important to follow a balanced diet that includes enough protein.
When nails are weak, brittle, or not growing properly, this can sometimes point to nutritional deficiencies or health conditions. In these cases, it is important to see a dermatologist, who can recommend the right treatment.
How to make your nails grow faster
Some effective ways to help your nails grow faster include:
1. Use a strengthening base coat
Applying nail-strengthening base coats or moisturizing nail oils helps protect and nourish nails, making them less likely to break. These products are widely available at drugstores and supermarkets under different brands.
2. Keep nails hydrated
Using a quality hand and nail cream keeps both nails and cuticles moisturized, which strengthens them over time and makes them less likely to break. There are also creams and oils made specifically for nail and cuticle hydration that can be found at pharmacies or beauty stores.
3. Avoid acetone
Acetone removes polish effectively but dries out nails. To prevent damage, it is better to choose an acetone-free nail polish remover, which is gentler and less harsh.
4. Do not leave nail polish on too long
Wearing polish for long periods can weaken nails because of the chemicals it contains. Ideally, nails should stay polish-free for at least one week each month, or for 2 to 3 days before reapplying polish. During this time, keeping nails moisturized helps support strength and growth.
5. Do not remove cuticles
Cuticles act as a natural barrier that protects nails from dirt, bacteria, and fungi. Removing them can make the nail bed weaker and more prone to damage over time. Instead, gently push cuticles back and keep them hydrated to promote healthier, faster nail growth.
6. Use gentle nail files
Soft nail files help prevent cracks and splitting, which allows nails to grow more easily. When filing, avoid back-and-forth motions and instead file slowly in one direction.
7. Limit contact with cleaning products
Frequent exposure to cleaning chemicals can weaken and dry out nails, making them more fragile and brittle. To protect them, wear rubber, latex, or silicone gloves when doing tasks such as washing dishes, doing laundry, or cleaning.
8. Keep nails clean and dry
Keeping nails clean and dry reduces the risk of fungal infections, such as nail fungus, which can leave nails weak and brittle.
9. Avoid biting nails
Biting nails causes trauma and damage that weakens them and slows their growth. Breaking this habit helps nails grow stronger and healthier.
10. Eat more protein
Nails are made of keratin, a type of protein. Increasing protein intake helps strengthen nails and supports growth. Good protein sources include chicken, eggs, nuts, seafood, soy, whole grains, and gelatin. For best results, it is recommended to follow a balanced diet guided by a nutritionist.
11. Take biotin supplements
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that supports keratin production and can help nails grow stronger and faster. Biotin supplements are available in pharmacies but should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist, in the correct dosage and treatment period.
Biotin is also found in multivitamins that combine it with minerals like zinc and selenium. In addition, foods such as almonds, peanuts, eggs, carrots, cauliflower, and hazelnuts are natural sources of biotin that can support nail growth.