Some of us just aren’t blessed with strong nails that will grow and grow. But that doesn’t mean they have to look unkempt.
Here’s how to keep your short nails in optimum condition; you may even find with a little care and attention they start to get stronger and longer.
STEP ONE: Cuticles
Short nails aren’t necessarily a bad thing. Often women who have short nails have long nail beds, so there is still plenty of surface to paint. However short your nails, you can make them look longer by taking care of your cuticles. We find using a cuticle soak or softener and then gently pushing them back with a cuticle stick is the best way to go.
Try: Revitanail Cuticle Remover Gel, $19, Manicare Cuticle Sticks, $3.50 (pack of four).
STEP TWO: Buff
Even the shortest nails look 10 times better if you’ve used a buffer block. By running this over your nails you’ll not only smooth out the ridges but also shine the surface. But don’t overdo it; once a fortnight is quite enough; anything more and you could thin and weaken your nails.
Try: QVS 3-Way Maxi Buffer, $14.
STEP THREE: Treatment
You may have tried them all and still think nothing works, but trust us, committing to a nail treatment long term will help your nails become stronger.
Try: Sally Hansen Complete Care 7-in-1, $21: We’re loving this offering. Simply layer the clear nail polish-like formula on your nails every day, up to five days, then take it off and start again.
STEP FOUR: Massage
A daily cuticle massage can work wonders. It will take away any dullness and dryness from the nail and then encourage stronger growth. Try leaving the little bottle of cuticle oil either on your desk at work or on your bedside table so you remember to use it daily.
Try: Dr.Hauschka Neem Nail & Cuticle Oil, $59.
STEP FIVE: File
Even short nails need to be filed so they are nicely shaped and all the same length. Pop a nail file in your handbag; that way you can sort out snags straight away before they turn into tears.
Try: QVS 2 Pro Nail Shapers, $10.
