There are numerous effective ways to mend a broken nail at home. Among them, the four most common methods are gluing with specialized nail glue, with tea bag shells, using nail powder, or cutting the nails short. See detailed instructions on how to fix a broken nail in the following content.
Overview of the nail accessories market
The nail care market, encompassing nail accessories, reached a valuation of USD 21.08 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit USD 30.26 billion by 2030. Additionally, the market’s CAGR is forecast to clock in at 5.3% during the 2023-2030 period. Furthermore, the nail accessories and false nails segment is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 5.7% over the same 2023-2030 timeframe.
According to research, the demand for non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free nail care products is on the rise. Brands are constantly innovating to cater to this preference, introducing products such as vegan nail polish and gel polish devoid of harmful chemicals.
Moreover, the premiumization trend is exerting a significant impact on the market. Rising disposable incomes, particularly in emerging Asia Pacific and Latin America markets, are driving the demand for premium nail care products. Consumers in these regions are increasingly willing to spend more on high-quality, branded nail accessories.
Overall, the nail accessories market is set for robust growth, supported by trends in DIY nail care, product innovation, and the increasing influence of digital media. For more detailed insights, you can refer to sources from other trusted market reports.
Common nail problem and how to solve
Fingernails are not only an important part of the body, but they are also now considered an aesthetic element for us. Therefore, many people are paying more attention to caring for their nail health. To better protect your nails, you need to be able to identify common nail problems and how to fix a broken natural nail at home.
- Brittle nails: This condition can be caused by frequent nail polish use or the habit of picking at the nails after painting them. You can remedy this by moisturizing your nails regularly, eating a balanced diet, and wearing gloves when using harsh chemicals. Additionally, limit nail polish application and avoid picking at your nails.
- Ridged nails: If your nails have vertical ridges, this is likely due to aging and is not a cause for concern. However, if your nails have horizontal ridges, it could be a sign of injury, illness, or stress. If you notice these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
- Fungal nail infections: These infections can be caused by walking barefoot in damp areas or wearing closed-toe shoes frequently. To prevent this, keep your feet dry and ventilated, change your socks regularly if wearing closed-toe shoes, and use antifungal medication as directed by your doctor.
- Ingrown toenails: This condition can be caused by wearing tight shoes, cutting toenails incorrectly, or genetics. To address it, wear more comfortable shoes, trim toenails following the natural curve of the nail, and avoid cutting them too short. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary for proper treatment.
Cause of broken nail
Beyond the common nail issues mentioned earlier, another significant nail problem that requires attention is broken nails. In today’s article, we will primarily focus on the causes and remedies for broken nails and how to fix a broken natural nail.
Various factors can cause our nails to break and sustain damage, but we can categorize these causes into two main groups: external factors and internal nail health factors.
External causes of broken nails
Various external factors can damage our fingernails, making them more prone to breakage. Some of the most common culprits include:
- Chemical exposure: Frequent use of harsh cleaning products, soaps, and solvents can dry out, weaken, and brittle our nails, increasing their susceptibility to breakage.
- Bad habits: Both children and adults may engage in nail-biting or picking at their nails when stressed. Over time, these habits can weaken the nails and make them more prone to breakage.
- Environmental factors: Excessive exposure to water, especially hot water or water containing harsh chemicals, can also weaken and brittle our nails, making them more likely to break.
- Trauma: Strong impacts, accidents, or injuries during daily activities can cause nails to break, crack, or chip.
- Improper nail care practices: Removing gel polish or dip nails incorrectly can also weaken and damage the nails, making them more susceptible to breakage.
Internal causes of broken nails
Beyond external factors, several internal factors can also contribute to weak and brittle nails, making them more prone to breakage. These include:
- Nutritional deficiencies: Like other body parts, fingernails require adequate nutrients to maintain their health. Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to weak and brittle nails. Biotin, vitamin B complex, iron, and zinc are particularly important for healthy nail growth. However, supplementation should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, anemia, fungal nail infections, and eating disorders, can negatively impact nail health and increase the likelihood of breakage.
- Aging: As we age, our nails naturally become thinner and more fragile due to the aging process. Proper nail care practices can help protect and maintain healthy nails during this time.
How to fix a broken nail at home?
If your nail breaks and you don’t have time to visit a salon, you can easily fix it at home. However, if your nails continue to break despite multiple attempts at home remedies, it’s advisable to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some simple methods how to fix a broken nail without glue or use readily available tools:
Method 1: Repairing a broken nail with nail glue
This technique is perfect for how to fix a broken nail in the middle, even if the break hasn’t fully separated the nail.
Steps:
- Wash your hands and nails thoroughly with mild soap.
- Dry your nails completely with a towel.
- Apply a thin layer of nail glue to the underside of the broken nail fragment.
- Align and press the broken nail fragment back into its original position.
- Hold it firmly for a few seconds until the glue dries completely.
- File the nail surface smoothly with a nail file or nail drill bit .
- Apply a protective base coat and your desired nail polish to strengthen and secure the repaired nail.
While this method is simple and straightforward, it’s crucial to use specialized nail glue designed for nail repair. Avoid using toxic or harmful glues that could further damage your nails. Choose a larger broken nail fragment for a stronger bond. If the broken fragment is too small or cannot be found, consider alternative repair methods.
Method 2: Fixing broken nails with tea bags
This method is particularly useful for repairing nails that have broken or cracked very close to or touching the nail bed. It’s a valuable technique for anyone looking for how to fix a broken nail bed at home, especially when the break hasn’t reached the sensitive nail bed area.
Steps:
- Cut a small piece of the tea bag envelope, just enough to cover the affected nail.
- Soak the tea bag fragments in hot water for about 1 minute.
- Remove the tea bag fragment from the water and let it cool.
- Gently clean the nail surface and allow it to dry completely.
- Apply a thin layer of nail glue to the nail surface.
- Adhere the tea bag fragment to the broken nail, smoothing it out gently and waiting for the glue to dry.
- File off any excess tea bag material to create a smooth nail surface.
- Apply a protective topcoat of nail polish to finish the repair.
When choosing tea bags for your repair, opt for black or green tea varieties. These types of tea are brimming with antioxidants, which can help strengthen and revitalize your nails. If tea bags are scarce, you can use coffee filter paper as an alternative. The fibrous structure of the paper provides a similar reinforcement effect for the broken nail.
Method 3: Utilizing acrylic powder
Compared to the previous two methods, this approach is more intricate and demands more specialized materials and skills.
Steps:
- Carefully trim and file the broken nail to create an even and smooth surface, preserving as much of the natural nail as possible.
- Cleanse the nail thoroughly with mild soap and allow it to dry completely.
- Apply a thin layer of nail glue to the broken nail and the artificial nail (if using one).
- Dip the broken nail into the acrylic powder, ensuring that the powder completely covers the nail surface. Remove excess powder using a brush.
- Apply another thin layer of nail glue and dip the nail into the acrylic powder once more.
- Shape the nail using a nail file to achieve your desired form.
- Apply a clear or colored nail polish as preferred.
- Apply a topcoat to seal the topcoat and protect the nail.
When selecting acrylic powder, choose a product specifically designed for nail repair. This will help ensure compatibility and minimize the risk of damage to your natural nails. Feel free to experiment with nail art accessories to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your repaired nails.
Acrylic powder provides a versatile base for various decorative elements. Invest in high-quality acrylic powder and nail glue to achieve optimal results. These products will offer better adhesion, durability, and overall performance.
Method 4: Trimming the nail short
If your nail breaks right next to the nail bed, resist the urge to glue it back on. Here’s how to fix a broken nail until it grows out: prioritize proper care to prevent further damage and infection. This means gently trimming the broken part and focusing on keeping the area clean and protected.
Steps:
- Use specialized nail clippers, carefully trim away the broken portion of the nail.
- Apply an antiseptic solution to the exposed nail bed to prevent infection.
- Cover the affected nail with a bandage to shield it from dirt and bacteria.
The methods described in this guide are intended for cases of broken nails that do not involve damage to the skin or nail bed. If you experience severe injury, seek immediate medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.
Tips to protect your nails from breaking
Want to keep your nails strong and healthy? Here are some tips to minimize breakage and promote nail growth:
External care:
- Minimize chemical exposure: Wear gloves when handling harsh cleaning products to protect your nails.
- Kick bad habits: Avoid biting your nails or picking at the surrounding skin.
- Keep nails dry: Dry your hands thoroughly after washing. Limit prolonged soaking in water.
- Proper trimming and filing: File your nails after trimming to prevent rough edges. Use specialized nail care tools.
- Moisturize regularly: Apply hand cream or coconut oil to hydrate your nails and cuticles.
- Wise nail care: Limit nail polish application and use a base coat before applying color. Remove polish gently to avoid deep abrasion or excessive acetone use.
Internal care:
- Consume a balanced diet: Ensure your intake includes foods rich in biotin, vitamin B, iron, and zinc, all of which are crucial for nail health.
- Consider supplements: Consult your doctor about taking biotin or multivitamin supplements to support nail growth and strength.
- Drink plenty of water: Aim to consume at least two liters of water daily to keep your body and nails hydrated from within.
- Moisturize regularly: Apply hand cream or nail nourishing oil to maintain the softness and flexibility of your nails.
These simple at-home methods provide effective solutions for how to fix a broken nail. Remember to handle your nails with care to minimize breakage and maintain their healthy appearance. For your nail care tools and accessories, look no further than Sourcevietnam.
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