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10 easy steps for restoring your nails (and cuticles) to their healthiest state.
We condition and protect our hair to avoid these issues.
Whats Causing Dry Nails In The First Place?
The second category, environmental factors, is where you might really make a difference.
Dr. Stern adds that nails absorb even more water than skin.
Another common contributor to nail damage that you might control is exposure to chemicals in the products you use.
As previously mentioned, formaldehyde is the biggest offender, according to Dr. Stern.
There is also significant concern that these ingredients are carcinogenic, Dr. Stern adds.
How Long Will It Take Your Nails To Recover?
But that doesnt mean you should just reach for any crystal or glass nail file.
The soy-based remover comes in both an unscented and lavender-scented version, depending on your preference.
The cuticle is the nails natural protective seal, shares Dr. Stern.
You cannot have a healthy nail without a healthy, intact cuticle.
In a perfect world, you would leave your cuticles entirely untouched.
Hand sanitizers are alcohol-based and cause significant dehydration to both the nail and cuticle barrier, she shares.
Plus, it contains tea tree oil,which is thought to be antibacterial.
Invest In A Strengthening System
For a serious nail care overhaul, Dr. Stern created herDr.
Dana Nail Renewal System.
Youll need to apply this on polish-free nails, using the glycolic prep wand as the first step.
Glycolic acid is also considered to be a humectant, i.e., it helps to hold onto moisture.
Dr. Dana Stern, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Dana Stern Dermatology.
