What to Put on Fingernails to Make Them Stronger

If you’ve ever wondered what to put on fingernails to make them stronger, you’re not alone. Weak, brittle, or peeling nails are one of the most common beauty frustrations people face. Whether it’s constant handwashing, nail polish overuse, or just everyday wear and tear, our nails often need extra care to stay healthy and strong.

I still remember a time when my own nails would chip the moment they grew past the tips of my fingers. It was frustrating—I loved painting my nails, but no matter how careful I was, they’d always break. After trying countless products and home remedies, I finally discovered that the secret wasn’t just one “magic” solution. Instead, it was a combination of simple daily habits, nourishing treatments, and smart product choices that transformed my nails from weak to resilient.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The best things you can apply to your nails for strength and thickness
• Easy home remedies that actually work
• Proven tips to make your nails grow faster and healthier
• Mistakes to avoid if you want stronger nails

By the end, you’ll have a clear, practical guide to nail strength—so you can stop hiding your hands and finally enjoy nails that look and feel healthy. Let’s get started.

What to Put on Fingernails to Make Them Stronger

Understanding Nail Strength

Before you can figure out what to put on fingernails to make them stronger, it helps to understand what your nails are actually made of. Nails are formed primarily from keratin, a tough protein that also makes up your hair and the outer layer of your skin. Each nail consists of multiple thin layers stacked together. When those layers separate or become weak, nails may peel, split, or break.

So, why do nails become weak or brittle in the first place? There are several common reasons:

• Dietary gaps – If your body isn’t getting enough protein, iron, or vitamins like biotin, your nails may not grow as strong as they should.
• Excessive water exposure – Ironically, too much water (from constant washing or swimming) can strip nails of natural oils, making them soft and prone to peeling.
• Chemical damage – Frequent use of nail polish removers, acrylics, or harsh cleaning products can dry out nails.
• Lifestyle habits – Nail biting, picking, or even tapping your nails on hard surfaces can weaken them over time.
• Natural aging – As we get older, nails may grow more slowly and lose some of their natural thickness.

I noticed my own nails were breaking easily when I was washing dishes daily without gloves and using nail polish remover almost every week. At first, I thought it was just bad luck, but once I paid attention to how often I exposed my nails to chemicals and water, the pattern became clear.

The good news? Once you understand what weakens nails, it’s much easier to strengthen them—both with the right products and a few lifestyle changes.

Products That Can Make Nails Stronger

When it comes to figuring out what to put on fingernails to make them stronger, the right products can make all the difference. From protective coatings to nourishing oils, these treatments help restore nail health and encourage stronger growth over time.

Nail Hardeners and Strengthening Polishes

Nail hardeners and strengthening polishes work by forming a protective coat over your natural nail. Many formulas contain proteins like keratin or calcium that bond to the nail surface, reducing peeling and preventing breakage. Some also have reinforcing fibers that act almost like a shield, giving your nails extra resilience as they grow.

Personally, I found that using a strengthening base coat under my nail polish completely changed my nail health. My favorite product is one with added keratin—it doesn’t just make my nails feel tougher instantly but also helps them grow without splitting. The key, however, is not to overuse these hardeners. Too much can make nails brittle, so a few times a week is usually enough.

Cuticle Oils and Moisturizers

Hydration is just as important for nails as it is for skin. Dry nails are weak nails, and that’s where cuticle oils and moisturizers come in. By keeping the nail bed and surrounding skin nourished, you create the ideal environment for stronger, healthier nails.

Some of the best natural oils for nails include:

• Coconut oil – deeply moisturizing and antifungal
• Olive oil – rich in vitamin E for repair
• Jojoba oil – lightweight and easily absorbed

I love massaging a drop of jojoba oil into my nails at night—it became a relaxing ritual that noticeably reduced peeling and breakage within weeks.

Biotin and Nail Supplements

If your nails are consistently thin or slow-growing, a supplement might help. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is one of the most popular nutrients for nail health. Studies suggest that biotin supports thicker nails and helps reduce splitting.

I tried a biotin supplement for three months, and the results were surprisingly positive. My nails didn’t just grow faster—they felt denser and didn’t break as easily when I used them for everyday tasks. While supplements don’t work overnight, many reviews (and my own experience) show that consistent use can lead to noticeable improvements.

Home Remedies for Stronger Nails

If you prefer a more natural approach, there are plenty of home remedies that can make your nails stronger without relying on store-bought products. These simple treatments use everyday ingredients to nourish, protect, and restore nail health.

Natural Oils & Remedies

Oils are some of the most effective natural treatments for nail strength because they lock in moisture and supply essential nutrients. A few favorites include:

• Olive oil soak – Rich in vitamin E, olive oil penetrates deep into the nail layers, helping to repair dryness and brittleness.
• Coconut oil massage – Coconut oil has antifungal properties and provides lasting hydration, making it especially helpful if your nails tend to peel.
• Castor oil – Packed with fatty acids, castor oil strengthens the nail bed and can even encourage faster growth.

Personally, coconut oil made the biggest difference for me. I started massaging a small amount into my nails and cuticles before bed, and within weeks my nails looked shinier, felt stronger, and broke far less often.

DIY Nail Soaks

If you enjoy DIY treatments, nail soaks are an easy way to combine strength and shine:

• Lemon juice + olive oil – The lemon juice brightens nails and removes stains, while the olive oil adds deep moisture.
• Apple cider vinegar soak – ACV helps balance the nail’s pH and fights bacteria, making nails healthier and less prone to infections.

To try it, simply mix equal parts warm olive oil and lemon juice, then soak your nails for 10–15 minutes. It’s an affordable spa-like treatment you can do right at home.

Household Habits

Sometimes, it’s not just about what you put on your nails—it’s also about the habits that protect them. A few small changes can go a long way:

• Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to shield nails from harsh soaps and water damage.
• Limit long soaks in water, since nails absorb water and can weaken when they swell and shrink repeatedly.
• Switch to gentler soaps or hand washes to avoid stripping your nails of natural oils.

These tiny adjustments, when done consistently, protect nails from everyday stress and allow them to grow stronger naturally.

Daily Habits That Strengthen Nails

Strong nails don’t just come from what you put on them—they also reflect your everyday habits. Small changes in diet, nail care, and lifestyle can dramatically improve nail health over time.

Diet & Nutrition

Your nails are made of protein, so it’s no surprise that what you eat has a direct effect on their strength. A balanced diet with enough protein, iron, zinc, and biotin can make nails thicker and less prone to breaking. Some nail-friendly foods include:

• Eggs and fish – excellent sources of protein and biotin
• Leafy greens – rich in iron and antioxidants
• Nuts and seeds – packed with zinc and healthy fats
• Sweet potatoes – high in vitamin A for cell growth

Personally, I noticed a big difference when I started snacking on almonds and sunflower seeds. Not only were they an easy, healthy snack, but over time my nails grew faster and didn’t peel as much.

Proper Nail Care Routine

Caring for your nails consistently is just as important as good nutrition. A few essentials to keep in mind:

• Trim and file regularly – This prevents snagging and splitting, helping nails grow evenly.
• Avoid harsh removers – Acetone-based nail polish removers strip moisture. Instead, look for acetone-free formulas that are gentler on nails.
• Don’t forget your cuticles – Keeping them moisturized prevents painful tears and supports healthy nail growth.

Think of your nails like your hair—they need regular maintenance to stay strong and beautiful.

Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes the habits we don’t notice are the ones causing the most damage. If you want lasting nail strength, focus on these adjustments:

• Break bad habits – Nail biting, picking, or peeling polish weakens the nail plate.
• Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps keep nails flexible instead of brittle.
• Protect your hands – Use gloves when gardening, cleaning, or working with harsh chemicals.

I used to bite my nails when stressed, and breaking that habit made a huge difference. Combined with better hydration, my nails finally grew past the point where they usually cracked.

FAQs About Stronger Nails

How do you strengthen your nails naturally?

You can strengthen nails naturally by keeping them hydrated with oils like coconut, jojoba, or olive oil, eating a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, and protecting them from harsh chemicals. Simple habits—like wearing gloves while cleaning and avoiding nail biting—also go a long way in preventing breakage.

What home remedies make nails stronger and thicker?

Some of the best home remedies include soaking nails in olive oil for deep nourishment, massaging with coconut oil to prevent peeling, or using a lemon juice + olive oil soak for shine and strength. Castor oil is also known to thicken nails over time thanks to its fatty acids.

Can diet really affect nail growth and thickness?

Yes—diet has a direct impact on nail health. Nails need protein, iron, zinc, and biotin to grow strong. Foods like eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens support healthy nail growth. Without proper nutrition, nails often become thin, brittle, and slow to grow.

What’s the fastest way to grow nails?

There’s no instant fix, but the fastest results usually come from a combination of biotin supplements, proper hydration, and consistent nail care. Keeping nails moisturized, eating nail-friendly foods, and avoiding habits like biting or peeling can noticeably speed up growth within a few weeks.

Are nail strengtheners safe for long-term use?

Nail strengtheners are generally safe if used correctly, but overuse can make nails overly hard and brittle. It’s best to apply strengthening polishes a few times per week and give your nails “rest days” without polish. Pairing them with regular cuticle oil use keeps nails balanced and healthy.

Conclusion

When it comes to figuring out what to put on fingernails to make them stronger, there’s no single miracle cure—it’s really a mix of the right products, natural home remedies, and small daily habits. Nail strengtheners and oils give your nails a protective boost, DIY soaks restore shine and health, and simple habits like eating nutrient-rich foods or wearing gloves while cleaning help protect them in the long run.

Once I applied these tips consistently, my nails completely transformed. They stopped breaking at the slightest bump, grew longer than I thought possible, and looked healthier than ever. It wasn’t overnight, but with patience and care, the results were worth it.

You can achieve the same. Stronger nails aren’t just about beauty—they’re a sign of good care and health. With a little dedication, you’ll be surprised how resilient your nails can become.

Now it’s your turn: What’s your go-to nail-strengthening tip? Share your experience in the comments or drop your questions—I’d love to hear your story.