In your quest for flawless nails, don’t overlook the power of a good nail hardener. This humble game-changer in a bottle is aces for anyone who deals with fragile, peeling nails (so…all of us?).
Read on to find out how exactly to apply nail hardener as a part of your nail routine, and unlock one of our top secrets for getting salon-quality results from home. Equipped with the right tools and techniques, you’re about to enjoy nails that aren’t just beautiful but strong and healthy, too.
What Is Nail Hardener?
Nail hardener is a specialized product designed to strengthen and protect natural nails—particularly those that are weak, brittle, or peeling. Formulated with proteins, calcium, and other fortifying ingredients, nail hardeners work by reinforcing your nails’ structure, upping their flexibility and lowering the odds of breakage. By creating a protective barrier, they also improve nail health overall.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Nail Hardener?
- Strengthens Nails:Nail hardeners fortify the nail structure, reducing brittleness and preventing breakage, encouraging more durable nails that can withstand some wear and tear.
- Promotes Nail Health: By providing essential nutrients, they enhance nail health and resilience so your nails stay supple and strong over time.
- Curbs Peeling and Splitting: Nail hardeners create a protective barrier that minimizes damage and splitting, helping you maintain flawless-looking natural nails.
- Enhances Appearance: Expect smoother, shinier nails that look well-maintained…even without a manicure.
- Supports Growth: With such a solid foundation, nails grow healthier, helping you out in terms of both length and strength.
- Convenient and Cost-Effective: A bottle of nail hardener is a quick, easy, and affordable way to get salon-quality results at home.
How To Apply Nail Hardener
Step 1: Clean and Prepare Your Nails
Remove any existing nail polish with an acetone-free remover (this avoids drying out your nails). Wash your hands thoroughly to eliminate any residue, then dry them well. Trim and file your nails to your preferred shape, ensuring all edges are smooth and even. This prep work produces the ideal surface for thenail hardener.
Step 2: Shake the Nail Hardener
Before application, gently shake the nail hardener bottle to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is super important for getting even consistency, which will make the product more effective on your nails.
Step 3: Apply the First Coat
Using the applicator, paint a thin, even coat of nail hardener onto each nail. Start at the base of the nail and brush out to the tip, covering the entire surface, including the edges. Total coverage helps reinforce the entire nail, providing maximum breakage protection.
Step 4: Allow to Dry
Let the first coat dry completely. (Depending on the product, this usually takes a few minutes.) Hardener that’s fully dry won’t smudge or look gloppy.
Step 5: Apply Additional Coats if Needed
If your nails are especially weak or brittle, add a second coat for even more strength. Follow the same process, checking that each layer is completely dry before adding another.
Step 6: Use Regularly
Consistent use is half the game. Incorporatenail hardener into your regular routine by reapplying as directed, typically every few days or weekly.
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When Should You Apply Nail Hardener in Your Nail Routine?
Nail hardener should be applied at the start of your nail care routine, right after you've cleaned and prepped your nails. For it to work as well as it can, it needs to be used on bare nails that are free from any polish or residue. Applying nail hardener as the first step helps to form a solid foundation, strengthening your nails before any other products (base coat, nail polish, top coat) go on. For best results, follow the instructions provided with your nail hardener, as some may require more frequent reapplication to keep a good thing going.
How Long Should You Leave Nail Hardener On?
Nail hardener should stay on your nails until your next manicure session, which could be several days to a week. All the while, the hardener is working to strengthen and protect. Some products may need reapplication every few days so, to get the strongest nails, follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
Do You Put Nail Hardener Over or Under Nail Polish?
Nail hardener goes under nail polish, directly on top of your natural nails. This lets the hardener have direct contact with the nail plate and fortify the nail, plus give any subsequent layers a strong foundation. By applying it first, your nails get the maximum strengthening benefits and a lower risk of breakage and peeling. Once the hardener is dry, you can proceed with your regular nail polish and top coat.
How Many Coats Of Nail Hardener Should I Do?
The number of coats of nail hardener you should applydepends on the condition of your nails and the product’s specific instructions. One to two coats is enough for most people. Start with a single thin coat to allow the hardener to penetrate. If your nails are really weak or brittle, a second coat can provide even more back-up.
Nail Hardener Made Easy
Incorporating nail hardener into your nail care routine is a simple, powerful way to develop stronger, healthier nails. By understanding how to effectively work nail hardener into your regular rotation, you can protect your nails from damage, play up their natural good looks—and enjoy the confidence that comes along with it. Whether you're fighting brittle nails or just doing your part to build up their strength, nail hardeners are an accessible, affordable solution: With a few swipes, you get to experience the transformative effect tough nails can have on your daily life.
Revitalize your nail care routine with Londontown, where our exceptional products are crafted to enrich your manicure experience and nurture your nails’ health. Explore our innovative nail concealers and a vibrant selection of colors to find your perfect shade. Immerse yourself in the Londontown world and let your nails become a reflection of your unique style, expressing your creativity with every application.
Sources
- https://www.spacecoastmassage.com/5-tell-tale-signs-you-need-to-get-a-manicure.html
- https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-prevent-your-nails-from-breaking-4693432
- https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/what-your-nails-can-tell-you.html
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