Press Room

Truly healthy nails, which are flexible, smooth, glossy and pinkish in color, extend beyond just regular manicures. The condition of your nails can be an indication of your overall health, and nails (compromised of hardened skin cells and Keratin) that are lackluster may be the result of a diet void of essential nutrients and vitamins.

Problem 1 – Grooves, ridges and rough spots: Unevenness, ridges and rough spots are a common complaint when it comes to nails but, in actuality, the nail develops grooves that run down the length of the nail plate, creating the illusion of ridges. Any unevenness like grooves are part of the aging process, but in some cases, they are caused by genetics.

Solution 1 – Even though you can file down grooves, a ridge-filling base coat is your best bet since it creates a smoother, more even surface.

Problem 2 – White Spots: Small circular white flecks across the entire nail are pretty common and are usually caused by some sort of minor injury to the nail plate. Nail cells are naturally round, white and opaque, and flatten and become transparent as they grow out. But when there is damage to the skin at the base of the nail plate, it causes the cells to retain their whitish appearance.

Solution 2 – No need to worry when it comes to white spots: The nail naturally repairs itself (usually in a week or two). And as your nail continues to grow, the white spot will grow out too.

Problem 3 – Yellow Nails: According to Sigrid Konrad, vice president of training and education for BABOR Cosmetics America, dark nail polishes can stain the nails (only superficially) and make them look yellow. And in some cases, environmental factors like smoke and pollution can cause yellowing.

Solution 3 – Regardless of the cause, gently buffing your nails can help remove discoloration. A surefire way to prevent staining from occurring–whether or not you wear colored polish–is to apply a clear base coat, which will improve adhesion and extend the life of your manicure.  “for nails that are more discolored, squeeze fresh lemon juice into a bowl and soak your nails for three to five minutes. Wash your hands and follow with a moisturizer.” Says Konrad.

Problem 4 – Constant Splitting: Weak, dry nails–which can be caused by a lack of calcium, protein or vitamins–are prone to splitting, especially at the top of the nail. “When splitting is lengthwise, it’s caused by damage to the growth (matrix) area,” Schoon explains. Splits that occur across the nail plate are from bending and excessive force.”

Solution 4 – While moisture helps to build up nail strengths, hot oil and nail conditioning treatments are other options, since oil penetrates the nail plate, making it more durable and less prone to splitting and breakage.

Important Vitamins for Healthy Nails:
Vitamins A and B – Keep nails strong and hydrated, and prevent them from becoming brittle.
Calcium – Helps to build strength.
Zinc – Prevents weakening and encourages growth.
Iodine – Improves the condition of your nails.
Iron – Keeps nails from morphing into abnormal shapes; iron deficiencies can cause nail problems.
Protein -  Necessary for growth.