10 Best Nail Strengtheners of 2025 to Restore Brittle Nails

Main ingredients: Plant-derived keratin, hyaluronic acid, biotin, d-panthenol | size: 0.5 oz | Target audience: People with damaged cuticles

Best treatment set: nail technician rescue kit

Why it’s worth it: The Manicurist Rescue Kit is a repair trio designed for those who are experiencing improved nail polish after applying gel manicure. This set repairs damaged nails in just two weeks with three powerful formulas: SOS Base, Huile Verte, and SOS Mask. Notably, you’ll notice that Huile Verte (green oil) is 99% plant-based, with sweet almond oil at the top of the ingredient list.

Main ingredients: Sweet Almond Oil, Walnut Oil, Coconut Oil | size: 0.5 oz each | Target audience: People who do gel nails regularly

FAQ

What does nail strengthener do?

“Nail strengtheners can help prevent brittle or damaged nails and keep nail beds healthy if the formulation contains nutrients,” says the cosmetic chemist. ginger king. “Reinforcements typically use proteins and polymer resins to nourish and form a seal.” The result? stronger nails.

But why do nails become weak and brittle in the first place? The process of removing nail polish, gel or acrylic can be particularly damaging.especially If you remove it at home by ripping or picking. “Nails are made up of cells called keratinocytes, which look like roof tiles when viewed under a microscope.” dana sternMD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously said: allure. “When you peel off a gel nail polish, you’re not only removing the gel, but you’re also removing the top layer of these delicate cells, which can lead to white spots and texture irregularities all over your nails. There is.”

Besides gels and acrylics, other factors can also weaken nails, including “fungal infections (onychomycosis), contact dermatitis (from nail polish), nail psoriasis, nutritional deficiencies (iron, biotin, etc.), and eczema.” There is a gender. david kimMD, board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Consult a dermatologist to resolve the root of the problem.

How should I choose a nail strengthener?

Dr. Kim explains that choosing the right nail strengthener requires considering the underlying cause. If you are opting for a gel, make sure to ditch it and moisturize first and foremost. “Moisturizing with your favorite cuticle oil or cream helps damaged cells stick together and improves the appearance of the nail surface,” explains Dr. Stern.