The 7 Best Nail Strengtheners of 2019

Weak, flimsy nails will be a thing of the past once you start using this daily Keratin treatment that has been clinically proven to boost nail health in just one week, thanks to its triple threat of ingredients. Keratin protein, which is naturally a main component of nails, bonds to the nails to strengthen them; sweet almond oil conditions and softens rough textures; and jojoba seed oil works as a carrier oil to deeply penetrate into the nail, helping other ingredients sink in while working to nourish and hydrate nails. 

Hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium are the star ingredients in OPI’s Nail Envy Nail Strengthener, which transforms even the weakest, most damaged nails into harder and stronger nails. The maximum strength formula will trigger growth within two to three weeks. Simply use the exclusive ProWide Brush to paint on two coats to dry nails. After one week, remove it with nail polish and apply the polish again.

You don’t always have to go with clear polish when working to strengthen your nails. Essie’s Treat Love & Color Nail Polish & Strengthener comes in a range of pretty, sheer hues that work to fix brittle, dry nails in just a week. The formula contains a blend of active ingredients, including collagen and camellia extract, that penetrate the nail to work their magic. Even better, the polish is free of harsh, damaging ingredients like formaldehyde, DBP, and toluene.

The OG of nail strengtheners, Sally Hansen’s Hard As Nails is a tried and true classic. The clear formula has a mix of film-formers to shield nails from splitting, cracking and chipping, delivering long-lasting protection. You can wear it solo or as a base coat, but either way you can expect tougher, stronger nails. Dubbed “the original nail clinic in a bottle,” it helps nails grow longer and stronger. For maximum effect, apply it under nail tips for extra protection.

You know how a veggie-packed smoothie can leave you with healthier-looking, brighter skin? Well this “superfood” base coat is basically a green smoothie for your fingertips. The potent combination of antioxidants, kale extract, and keratin works to trigger nail growth, nourish, prevent breakage and splitting, and deeply hydrate. The base coat can be used solo for a high-shine finish. 

Acrylics can sometimes leave your nails in pretty bad shape, with visible damage like white spots and peeling. That’s where the Deborah Lippmann All About That Base CC Base Coat comes in. Essentially a filter for your nails, the base coat glides on to cover, conceal and correct those imperfections. The multitasking formula brings 10 nail treatment benefits, too. The hydrating complex with panthenol brings major moisture, plus it strengthens, brightens, primes and fill ridges to get a smooth finish. The matte polish can be worn alone or before applying color.