The Secret to Healthy Nails: Top Picks for Your Nail Care Routine

When it comes to self-care, nail care often falls to the wayside. Yet, maintaining strong, healthy, and well-groomed nails is not just about aesthetics—it’s about overall hygiene and health. Whether you’re a fan of intricate nail art, prefer a classic manicure, or like to keep things natural, the right nail care products can make all the difference. From hydrating cuticle oils to hard-as-nails strengtheners, having a thoughtful arsenal of nail care essentials is the secret to flaunting flawless fingertips all year long.
Finding the best nail care products can feel overwhelming, given the sheer variety of options on the market. But don’t worry; we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve curated a list of tried-and-tested nail care products, including expert-approved tools and dermatologist-recommended treatments, to ensure your nails stay healthy, resilient, and perfectly polished. Whether your nails are brittle, prone to peeling, or simply in need of a little extra love, these products have got you covered.
Here, we break down the top nail care recommendations for every step of your routine, so you can elevate your nail game and keep your hands looking their best.
1. Nail Strengtheners
Weak and brittle nails can be frustrating, but the right nail strengthener can transform them into strong, healthy beauties. Look for formulas enriched with strengthening ingredients like keratin, biotin, and calcium.
Top Picks:
OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener: A cult favorite for good reason, this nail strengthener is infused with hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium to fortify even the weakest nails. It’s versatile enough to use as a base coat or standalone treatment. ($20 on Amazon).
Sally Hansen Hard As Nails: This affordable yet effective classic strengthens and protects nails from peeling, chipping, and splitting. With added nylon, it forms a durable shield over your nails. ($4 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Apply nail strengtheners twice a week for the best results, and avoid overusing harsh acetone-based nail polish removers, which can weaken nails over time.
2. Cuticle Care
Your cuticles act as a protective barrier for your nails, so taking care of them is essential. Neglected cuticles can become dry, cracked, or inflamed, which not only looks unappealing but can also lead to infections. Enter cuticle oils and creams—your best friends for keeping cuticles hydrated and soft.
Top Picks:
CND SolarOil Nail and Cuticle Care: Packed with jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and vitamin E, this ultra-hydrating oil nourishes and strengthens both nails and cuticles, leaving them healthy and shiny. ($12 on Amazon).
Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream: This rich, buttery formula smells divine and works wonders to soften dry cuticles while conditioning nails. ($6 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Massage cuticle oil or cream into your nails and cuticles daily to boost circulation and promote healthy nail growth.
3. Nail Files and Buffers
A good nail care routine starts with the right tools. The humble nail file and buffer may not get as much attention as polishes and serums, but they’re essential for shaping and smoothing your nails.
Top Picks:
Glass Nail File by OPI: Unlike traditional emery boards, glass files are gentler on nails, preventing splits and cracks. They’re also durable and easy to clean. ($15 on Amazon).
Sephora Collection 4-Step Nail Buffer: This multi-functional buffer helps smooth, shine, and polish your nails for a natural, glossy finish. ($5 on Sephora).
Pro Tip: Always file your nails in one direction rather than sawing back and forth to prevent breakage.
4. Moisturizers and Hand Creams
Healthy nails start with hydrated hands. Frequent washing and exposure to harsh chemicals can leave your hands and nails dry, so investing in a high-quality hand cream is essential.
Top Picks:
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: This luxurious formula contains 20% shea butter to deeply moisturize and protect dry, chapped hands and nails. ($28 on Amazon).
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream: A drugstore favorite, this glycerin-rich cream delivers intense hydration without feeling greasy. ($5 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: For an overnight hydration boost, apply hand cream generously and wear cotton gloves to bed. You’ll wake up with soft, smooth hands and nails.
5. Nail Polish
Nail polish isn’t just for aesthetics; it can also serve as a protective layer for your nails. However, the formula matters. Opt for polishes that are free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP.
Top Picks:
Essie Gel Couture: This long-lasting, chip-resistant polish gives you a salon-worthy finish at home, with no UV lamp required. ($10 on Amazon).
Zoya Nail Polish: A favorite among clean beauty enthusiasts, Zoya’s polishes are 10-free, vegan, and come in an impressive array of shades. ($12 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Always apply a base coat to protect your nails from staining and a top coat to seal in your polish and extend its wear.
6. Nail Polish Removers
The wrong nail polish remover can wreak havoc on your nails, leaving them dry and brittle. Look for acetone-free options or those enriched with conditioning ingredients.
Top Picks:
Zoya Remove+ Nail Polish Remover: This fan-favorite remover is gentle yet effective, removing even stubborn polish while nourishing nails and cuticles. ($12 on Amazon).
Ella+Mila Soy Nail Polish Remover: Made with natural ingredients like lavender essential oil and vitamins A, C, and E, this remover is perfect for those with sensitive nails. ($12 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Use a cotton ball soaked in remover and press it onto the nail for a few seconds before wiping to reduce friction and prevent damage.
7. Nail Treatments
Sometimes, your nails need a little extra help. Whether you’re dealing with discoloration, ridges, or slow growth, targeted nail treatments can work wonders.
Top Picks:
Nail Tek Intensive Therapy: Ideal for nails prone to peeling and splitting, this treatment strengthens and repairs damaged nails over time. ($8 on Amazon).
Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System: This dermatologist-developed three-step system exfoliates, hydrates, and strengthens nails for a healthier appearance. ($24 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Be patient! Nail treatments often take several weeks to show results, as they work in sync with your nails’ natural growth cycle.
8. Nail Clippers and Scissors
A high-quality nail clipper or pair of scissors is non-negotiable for trimming your nails safely and effectively. Cheap tools can cause splitting or uneven edges, so it’s worth investing in a reliable option.
Top Picks:
Tweezerman Stainless Steel Nail Clippers: These sharp, durable clippers offer precise trimming and come in a set for both fingernails and toenails. ($12 on Amazon).
Seki Edge Nail Scissors: Made with Japanese stainless steel, these scissors provide unmatched precision and are ideal for shaping nails. ($19 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Trim nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails, and use a file to smooth any rough edges.
9. Base Coats and Top Coats
Base coats and top coats are essential for achieving a professional-looking manicure. They not only protect your nails but also enhance the longevity and shine of your polish.
Top Picks:
Orly Bonder Base Coat: This rubberized formula creates a strong grip for polish, preventing chipping and peeling. ($10 on Amazon).
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat: Known for its quick-drying and ultra-glossy finish, this top coat seals in your manicure for days of chip-free wear. ($9 on Amazon).
Pro Tip: Allow each layer of polish to dry fully before applying the next to avoid smudging or bubbling.
10. Nail Masks and Soaks
Nail masks and soaks are like spa treatments for your fingertips. They’re perfect for reviving tired, damaged nails and adding a touch of luxury to your routine.
Top Picks:
KISS Hand & Nail Masks: These easy-to-use gloves are infused with nourishing ingredients to hydrate and repair your nails and hands. ($6 on Poshmark).
Olive & June Nail Brightener: This treatment doubles as a soak and serum, brightening and hydrating nails in minutes. ($14 on OliveandJune).
Pro Tip: Incorporate a nail soak or mask into your routine once a week for an extra boost of nourishment.
Final Thoughts
With these nail care essentials in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to achieving strong, healthy, and beautiful nails. Remember, consistency is key, so establish a regular routine and stick to it. Here’s to nails that are as polished as your routine!