How to Repair, Strengthen, and Care for Your Nails

Gel or polish? When we sit down in the nail salon chair, most of us don’t think much about choosing between the two or which trending colors we’ll be wearing for the next few weeks. However, the growing shift towards organic nail care is changing that mindset and placing nail health squarely in the wellness conversation.

For many of us, years of gel and acrylic manicures have done a lot of damage, and that damage can’t necessarily be reversed with biotin supplements or fortifying serums alone. (Don’t get me started on cuticles.) To better understand what it actually takes to restore nail health, I… sunday studiois a wellness-themed nail brand with six locations in New York City.

Why is nail health so important?

Nail care is much more than just aesthetics. While I love the element of self-expression and the subtle satisfaction of the seasonal transition from fall burgundy to winter slate gray, nail health plays a more functional role. According to Lin, nail polish is often the first line of defense for your nails.

“Nails are protective structures,” she explains. “When nails become brittle, peel, or remain chronically inflamed, they become more susceptible to cracking, discomfort, and even infection around the nail folds.”

Natural nails are now available

No wonder the health of your nails is temporarily deteriorating. Clean girl aesthetics, such as natural nail colors and cropped shapes, influence more than polish choices. The way people think about nail care has changed. When you have nothing to hide, the condition of your nails becomes part of your appearance.

“minimum, your nails, but better “Manicures like ‘pretty girl nails’ and ‘no makeup manicures’ are popular because they celebrate a natural look,” Lin explains, “They also make the condition of the nails more visible, which naturally increases interest in nail health.”

As skin and body care has become more intentional in recent years, Lin believes nail care will follow the same trajectory.

“The same change is happening in skin care,” she says. “People are moving from covering their nails to taking care of them. Nail care is becoming about looking healthy and feeling good.”

What habits can damage your nails?

Gel manicures have gained a lot of attention in recent years, and for good reason. The polish itself is a factor, but the UV exposure required to cure it is a bigger problem. This is essentially a mini tanning bed for your nails and is not ideal for long-term nail or skin health.

Besides UV exposure, frequent sanding and stripping can cause cumulative damage. According to Lin, almost every step of the gel and acrylic process puts stress on your nails. “Abrasion and sanding of acrylic also contributes to microplastic particles,” she points out. “This is one of the reasons why so many people are returning to simpler manicures.”

However, nail damage is not only caused by gel and acrylic. Some of the most harmful habits are surprisingly common, even among people who brush up on a regular basis. Lin points out the following points to keep in mind:

• Peel off or remove the gel: This lifts the nail plate (keratin) layer, which can cause thinning, weakening, and long-term damage, especially as the gel begins to lift.
• Biting your nails or picking your cuticles: Both damage the nail bed and cuticle barrier, increasing the risk of inflammation and infection.
• Aggressive filing: Excessive abrasion during preparation and removal of gels and acrylics can cause nails to thin over time.

What changes can you make to get a healthier manicure?

“Simple is often the healthiest,” says Lin. Consider keeping it short, shaping it gently, wearing household gloves, and consistently moisturizing. These small choices may seem basic, but they make a big difference over time.

Nails function like skin, providing a protective barrier that requires care. Just like you avoid harsh treatments for your face, your nails deserve smarter, gentler choices.

If you’re dealing with dryness or brittleness, Lin recommends focusing on barrier support.

• Stop using peeling gel and remove it properly. Peeling is one of the easiest ways to thin your nails.
• Prioritize clean tools and good salon hygiene. Healthy nails start with clean habits.
• Supports the nail barrier every day. Regular use of cuticle oil and hand cream can help prevent dryness and hair breakage.

Switching to non-toxic nail polish or going to a non-toxic salon can also make meaningful changes. Gentler formulas are less likely to dry out or discolor your nails over time, making them a better option for long-term nail health.

The best products to support nail health

These are products worth reaching for if you’re focused on stronger, healthier nails. From nourishing oils to gentle removers to barrier support creams, each supports a thoughtful manicure routine without putting unnecessary stress on your nails.

See more nail health essentials we love

Cuticle oil (daily barrier support)

Hand cream (skin + nail barrier care)

Gentle manicure (uncompromising color)

• zoya nail polish. A non-toxic, durable color line with no harsh chemicals, perfect for removing heavy gels and acrylics.
• london town cafe au lait manicure. It’s a delicate, wearable neutral that gives your nails a sophisticated feel without being overpowering. London Town’s formula is designed to be less drying and more supportive of overall nail health, making it perfect for those looking to reduce heavy strengthening.

nail strengthener

• OPI Nail Envy Original. A cult-favorite strengthening treatment that strengthens weak or peeling nails with repeated use.
• Essie Treat Love & Color. A lightly pigmented, fortifying base that adds subtle color while delivering protein and nutrients to support recovery.