Our nails endure a lot: frequent hand washing, then the assault from harsh weather. And then, of course, there are those lesser enemies like nail polish, detergents, and even dietary choices against them. It’s no wonder the nails struggle to stay healthy. Having strong nails is important, both in aesthetics and in general health of the nail itself, protecting against nail bed damage and preventing painful breakage. Which is why we will be exploring DIY nail strengthening sprays.
Over the past couple of years, homemade beauty routines have become extremely popular, and nails are no exception. That is why making your own homemade nail-strengthening sprays could be just what you need to save a few bucks while concocting formulas tailored to your needs. You can make treatments for strengthening weak nails and building strength and resilience using natural ingredients and herbs.
This article covers how to make nail strengthening sprays yourself with the help of the most potent herbs that work for nails. We’ll also cover some of the store-bought options to supplement your routine, giving some side-by-side comparisons between DIY solutions and their commercial counterparts. If you’re after an inexpensive, natural way to boost your nail strength and reduce breakages, read on to discover which of these herbs and methods work. Below are discussed recipes, ingredient benefits, and a few commercial products that are sure to give you real value. Ready to begin giving your nails the TLC they deserve?
Table of Contents
Why Use Herbs in Strengthening Nail Sprays?
Herbs are said to be a great alternative to the chemical-based nail products. They’re power-packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help build nail resiliency from the inside out. Let’s explore some standout herbs you can easily add to your DIY sprays for noticeable improvements.
Horsetail: This grass can be given to patients as it contains vast amounts of silica, which reinforces the nails by increasing their production of keratin. Silica is a mineral very important in nail development, and it gives nails resistance to brittleness. The advantage of horsetail is not only confined to the nails but this herb keeps skin and hair healthy.
Nettle: This herb is mineral-rich, containing calcium, iron, and silica-all of which are very beneficial for nail health. This herb will help your nails to have improved texture and thickness while reducing any possibilities of cracking or peeling. It is also very good for nail conditioning if polish is applied very frequently or exposed to drying products.
Chamomile: Chamomile soothes and is mild on the nail; hence, it serves as a good conditioner of nails. The soothing effect helps in soothing brittleness, while it may provide flexibility to your nails such that they are not easily snapped under pressure.
Rosemary: Rosemary, being highly concentrated in antioxidants, is ideal for nail protection against many types of damage and environmental factors. Its soothing properties contribute to a healthy appearance of the nails and their shine, improving aspects related to aging or dullness.
The Function of Essential Oils in Nail Strengthening Sprays
Essential oils add not only a great smell to your homemade nail sprays but also bring some worthy properties with themselves. A few of them will definitely help enhance the effectiveness of your herbal sprays.
Tea Tree Oil: Since tea tree oil contains a number of antifungal and antibacterial properties, it is one of the best ingredients to consider in keeping your nails healthy. It helps reduce infection and properly cleans both your nails and cuticles, especially when you are one who uses nail polish quite often.
Lavender Oil: Lavender oil soothes and strengthens your nails by reducing brittleness. It will help protect your nails from daily wear and tear and contribute to resilience and flexibility.
Eucalyptus Oil: Refreshingly aromatic, the nature of eucalyptus oil works to stimulate yet strengthen. It will feed the nails and cuticles while making them flexible to avoid breaking.
Adding a few drops of these oils to your DIY sprays gives extra care to your nails, induces a soothing, and therapeutic experience.
DIY Nail Strengthening Spray Recipes
Below are two nail spray recipes that include all of the herbs and oils discussed above. Each has its special blend of benefits, so feel free to try out both and see which you think works best for your nails.
Recipe 1: Horsetail and Nettle Nail Spray
Ingredients
1 tablespoon dried horsetail
1 tablespoon dried nettle
1 cup boiling water
5 drops tea tree essential oil
5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
Small spray bottle
Instructions
1. Place the horsetail and nettle in a teapot or heatproof container.
2. Pour boiling water over the herbs and let steep for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture and let cool to room temperature.
4. Add the tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils.
5. Pour into a spray bottle and shake well.
Application: Spray this formula directly onto clean nails and cuticles once daily. Store this in the refrigerator for freshness up to one week.
Recipe 2: Chamomile, Rosemary, and Lavender Nail Spray
Ingredients
1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 cup boiling water
5 drops lavender essential oil
Small spray bottle
Instructions
1. In a heatproof container combine chamomile and rosemary.
2. Pour boiling water over herbs and steep for 20-30 minutes.
3. Strain and let cool completely.
4. Add in lavender essential oil and pour into the spray bottle.
Application: Apply daily to nails and cuticles for strength and shine. Store in fridge for one week.
Also Read: Are Nail Oils Better Than Hand Creams?
Both sprays offer a natural way of strengthening nails, and with regular use, you’ll start to notice improved resilience and reduced breakage.
Natural Additives to Boost Nail Strengthening Sprays
While herbs and essential oils are a good foundation, you can easily add other ingredients to enhance the benefits of your nail spray.
Aloe Vera Gel: It is famous for its moisturizing properties, so mixing aloe vera gel into your nail spray will ensure that they are even more hydrated. This is especially useful in cases of cracked or peeling nails because of dryness.
Witch Hazel: This is a natural astringent possessing antibacterial properties, cleanses the nail surface for better absorption of the ingredients. Witch hazel is ideal to keep your nails clean and healthy; hence, quite helpful in cases of nail fungus.
Vitamin E Oil: Vitamin E promotes nail growth and puts a protective layer on the nail. Adding a few drops of it to your nail spray will nourish your nails, making them flexible and strong.
These add-ins can be combined with the above DIY recipes or can be used solo on both nails and cuticles.
Product Reviews: Nail Strengtheners for Additional Care
While homemade sprays are great for one’s nail, there comes a time when a commercially available product does the trick quicker and more intensively. Two highly recommended products in this regard that you can add to your nail care routine go as follows.
Nail-Aid Keratin 3 Day Growth Nail Treatment & Strengthener
This is one of the strong treatment options for those who want to see quick improvements in nail strength. With keratin amino acids, it strengthens soft and weak nails, reinforces the layers that often peel or chip. Its quick-dry formula is great during busy times because it will let you have ultra-hard finishes that won’t impede your daily affairs.
Pros
Visible improvement in nail strength within 3 days
Can also be used on its own or over varnish for a glossy finish
Cons
Application needs to be repeated every few days for best effect
If used too heavily, it can lead to rigidity of the nail
Probelle Nail Strengthening Formula
Formulated with AHAs, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, and Hexanal, Probelle’s nail strengthener is all about repairing damage brought on by frequent treatments. This nail strengthener gives a highly glossy finish that boosts the texture and flexibility of the nail and therefore is great for flimsy nails that constantly chip or peel.
Pros
Contains nourishing ingredients for flexibility
Glossy finish to give nails an extra-coat look
Cons
Can be more costly in contrast to other products, such as home recipes
Both of these products can be used in conjunction with homemade sprays for overall nail care.
Homemade or Store-Bought Product: Which is Better?
The question of whether to use homemade sprays or store-bought ones will depend on your needs regarding nail care and, in fact, your lifestyle.
Homemade has its perks as it is chemical-free, and natural. It is ideal if you enjoy a clean beauty routine. They are also quite inexpensive and can be prepared by yourself, which means that you control the ingredients and change the formula accordingly.
On the other hand, the commercially available products such as Nail-Aid and Probelle are specifically created for fast and visible results, ready for use by any person with no time to spare.
Complement your homemade sprays with store-bought ones, and you will surely find the way for your nails to stay at their best. Keep the homemade spray for every-day maintenance hydration and protection, adding the commercial strengthener once a week or once every other week to give it an extra amount of defense. With mix-and-match, you have the best of both worlds: natural nourishing and professional support of your nails.
Conclusion
Whether you make your own herbal spray or simply use a store version, strengthening your nails can be an easy and effective process. With homemade options, you have the power of nature to help in your routine, while commercial products offer visible and quick results. With knowledge regarding what your nails need, choosing the right treatments will provide one with healthier and stronger nails that may endure wear and tear daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other herbs can I use in my nail spray?
Yes, you can try herbs like peppermint, thyme, and sage. These will bring added benefits of their properties, including increased circulation and antioxidant protection.
How long will homemade nail spray last?
Homemade sprays will last about a week if refrigerated. If you want your sprays to last longer, add a natural preservative, such as a few drops of Vitamin E.
Are there any dangers with store-bought nail strengtheners?
These are the excesses that may make nails too rigid. Usage frequency and method should be as recommended for rest of the nail every now and then.
How often should I apply a nail-strengthening spray or product?
Apply homemade sprays each day to stay hydrated and supported. For store-bought products, use every day as well for continued benefits or once a week for longer benefits.
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