Easy Solutions for a Dozen Nail Problems

Everyday life takes a toll on our nails, and thanks to the ever-increasing hype around nail art, today’s nails are constantly begging to be seen and admired – which is why even the smallest fingertip faux pas can be a total eyesore.

But don’t fret! FINE Magazine is here to help you combat common problems with these 10 fast and easy fixes.

1. How to fix…jagged edges

Even out jagged edges by only filing your nails in one direction, and using a 240-grit nail file. Filing from side to side can cause breaking, and a coarser 180- or 100-grit file often frays natural nails.

2. How to fix…a small split in the nail

Repair a small split in the nail with a drop of IDB 5-Second Professional Nail Glue (which, by the way, also works in a pinch as a pantyhose snag-stopper). Apply the nail glue, then gently pull up the nail so it is even, and finally squeeze the sides together. After the glue is dry, lightly file to get rid of any lingering stickiness.

3. How to fix…a large tear in the nail

Mend tears in the nail using a teabag or coffee filter. Start by cutting a rectangular strip large enough to fit over the broken area of your nail, and then apply a thin layer of super glue. Using tweezers, lay the paper on the torn area, and press down lightly with your finger to stick the tea bag to the nail. Once the glue dries, lightly buff the nail and seal in your damaged disguise with a coat of clear polish. Or go to the salon and have a pro patch up the nail seamlessly with silk or fiberglass wrap.

4. How to fix…hangnails

Always try to withstand the urge to rip off ragged cuticles, as this may lead to bleeding and infection. Instead, leave the hangnail alone until you are able to cut it away with some sharp nail scissors.

To avoid hangnails, stay on top of softening your cuticles on a regular basis. CND SolarOil Nail & Cuticle Conditioner is infused with jojoba oil and vitamin E to hydrate the cuticle area and create stronger, healthier nails.  

5. How to fix…yellowing nails

If you find your nude-hued manicure yellowing, it could be a consequence of the sun. To protect against this, coat on a layer of Essie Sun-E to protect your nails from UV rays.

For an easy and inexpensive way to combat discolored or stained nails – caused by pigments in dark polish – try rubbing lemon juice on the darkened area daily for 10 days to two weeks. You can also try erasing the nail stain by scrubbing the surface with baking soda, water, and an old toothbrush. But for extra-saturated stains left by dark red, blue, and purple pigments, I suggest trying Orly’s effervescent Nail Whitener treatment, which gently soaks away unsightly stains.

6. How to fix…brittle nails

Strengthen nails with a coat of nail hardener that contains peptides. The Dermelect Cosmeceuticals Nail Recovery System is great for this. The chemical compounds used in this system is similar to the technology used in anti-aging skin creams, and flush keratin back into the nails which stimulates growth and protects against chips.

7. How to fix…weak nails

For weak, thin nails, soak them in extra virgin olive oil 10-15 minutes a day for a month, and then twice a week thereafter. This inexpensive home beauty treatment will help strengthen damaged, weak or peeling fingernails.

Also, eating biotin-rich foods – such as cooked eggs, whole grains, cauliflower, and avocado – and taking a multivitamin daily will give weak nails an added boost.

8. How to fix…smudges

If your nail polish is still a bit wet, dip the smudged nail in cuticle oil, and then softly try rubbing the smudge out with the tip of your finger.

Or, if the polish has already dried to a hard, smudged glaze, then try dabbing your fingertip in nail polish remover and running it softly over the smeared spot.

To protect against smudges before they happen, always grease freshly painted fingernails with cuticle oil, which will create a protective barrier between your topcoat and any hard surface your polish job may bump into.

9. How to fix…a tiered manicure

Fix up a tiered manicure with a coat of sparkle or shimmer polish. This will conceal re-growth at the base of your nails, as well as give your nails a shimmering glow.

10. How to fix…polish that won’t come off

For polish that just refuses to be removed, heat up some acetone by submerging it in hot water (just as you would heat a baby bottle). The warmer temperature allows the acetone to more easily melt away tough polish.