As you can see, I happen to use a lot of nail treatments. I have a kind of process that I follow:
Strengtheners
The base coat I use most often (I switch between this and Seche Clear) is Essie's First Base Base Coat. It doesn't contain any hardeners which is what I need because as I mentioned in my previous post, my nails start to curl and break if I use hardeners/strengtheners for too long.
When I do feel my nails getting weak for whatever reason, I definitely swear by OPI's Nail Envy. I use it for a week or so but then I stop because my nails start to curl around the edges. When this happens, I start using Essie's Grow Stronger for a few more days because I find it is less powerful than NE and doesn't curl them but still keeps them strong enough.
I have also heard great things about Duri Rejuvacote. I even bought it myself but then I read that it had gelatin in it and for religious reasons I felt uncomfortable wearing it so I gave it away. It does seem to help those who have damaged nails from acrylics.
Nail Length
Personally, Essie's Grow Faster works wonders for me!!! I have a picture on my Instagram account showing a difference in growth within THREE days! But I do acknowledge that it does not work for everyone. These things seem to react differently with everyone's body chemistry. I'd recommend giving it a try though, hopefully it works if you're looking to grow your nails. Usually I first put on a coat of GF and then a coat of Nail Envy.
Other than that, your overall health is ultimately going to determine your nail health. Eating well and clean will help ensure long and strong nails. Take your vitamins. Biotin is said to be great for hair, nails, and skin.
Cuticle Oil
I'm a big fan of Essie Apricot cuticle oil! It does wonders for me within one use. I do love creams like Burt's Bees lemon butter, but oils will really seep into the skin, especially the hard to reach parts. Any oil can work (especially natural ones like olive and coconut)
Strengtheners
The base coat I use most often (I switch between this and Seche Clear) is Essie's First Base Base Coat. It doesn't contain any hardeners which is what I need because as I mentioned in my previous post, my nails start to curl and break if I use hardeners/strengtheners for too long.
When I do feel my nails getting weak for whatever reason, I definitely swear by OPI's Nail Envy. I use it for a week or so but then I stop because my nails start to curl around the edges. When this happens, I start using Essie's Grow Stronger for a few more days because I find it is less powerful than NE and doesn't curl them but still keeps them strong enough.
I have also heard great things about Duri Rejuvacote. I even bought it myself but then I read that it had gelatin in it and for religious reasons I felt uncomfortable wearing it so I gave it away. It does seem to help those who have damaged nails from acrylics.
Nail Length
Personally, Essie's Grow Faster works wonders for me!!! I have a picture on my Instagram account showing a difference in growth within THREE days! But I do acknowledge that it does not work for everyone. These things seem to react differently with everyone's body chemistry. I'd recommend giving it a try though, hopefully it works if you're looking to grow your nails. Usually I first put on a coat of GF and then a coat of Nail Envy.
Other than that, your overall health is ultimately going to determine your nail health. Eating well and clean will help ensure long and strong nails. Take your vitamins. Biotin is said to be great for hair, nails, and skin.
Cuticle Oil
I'm a big fan of Essie Apricot cuticle oil! It does wonders for me within one use. I do love creams like Burt's Bees lemon butter, but oils will really seep into the skin, especially the hard to reach parts. Any oil can work (especially natural ones like olive and coconut)