You take care of your facial skin, body, and hair… but what about your nails? Yes, your nails need hydration too. If you’re concerned about your nail polish lasting, slow nail growth, and haven’t thought much about moisturizing them yet—this might be the missing step toward strong, healthy nails you’ve been dreaming of.

Why do nails become dry? The condition of your nails is influenced by both internal and external factors. One key factor is age, and even gender. Cholesterol is the main lipid present in the nail plate. When its level decreases, nails lose their ability to retain moisture. This happens naturally with age, and it’s especially noticeable in women—so dry and brittle nails are more common after the age of 50.

But internal factors aren’t the only ones. The external environment plays an important role as well. Cold, dry weather—especially in winter—literally draws moisture out of the skin and nails, making them more fragile and prone to breakage.

Why is nail dryness a problem? Lack of moisture is not just an aesthetic issue. Dry nails hold nail polish less effectively: polish chips and peels faster. They are also more prone to splitting, breaking, and even developing cracks around the cuticle, which can lead to inflammation and infection.

Good news! Restoring nail hydration is entirely possible—and the results won’t take long to show. The key is to care for your nails properly and consistently. Below are six simple and effective tips to help bring your nails back to health and make your manicure as beautiful and long-lasting as possible.

It might sound surprising, but nail exfoliation is actually necessary. Imagine nail cells like shingles on a roof: since they are dead, over time they can lift and peel, similar to how skin flakes on your feet in winter. Just as dead skin cells need to be gently removed so that moisturizer can absorb better, nails also require a little help.
Glycolic acid is particularly effective for this. Studies show that controlled exfoliation of the nail plate with glycolic acid significantly improves the condition of dry and rough nails. Glycolic acid breaks down the keratin bonds—the main structural component of nail cells—and also acts as a moisturizer, helping to retain moisture.

For home use, you can try products containing glycolic acid or urea, alternating them if needed. It is recommended to exfoliate once a week—a small but pleasant ritual for nail health and beauty.

After exfoliation, it is especially important to ensure your nails are properly hydrated. The best option is a cream specifically designed for nail care. Alternatively, you can use your regular hand cream—we’ll explain the correct technique later. 

Another effective way to maintain moisture is using oils. They are absorbed even better into the nail plate than creams and are particularly beneficial when using oils such as sunflower or Brazil nut oil, which are rich in phospholipids that increase nail flexibility and help fight dryness. 

As for frequency, the more often, the better. Apply your moisturizer after every contact with water and before bedtime, and, if possible, even more often, so your nails stay soft, healthy, and strong. 

Whether you choose a cream or an oil, the application technique is just as important as the product itself. Simply applying it is not enough — you should gently massage the product into your nails and cuticles. This helps reduce nail brittleness and splitting, while also stimulating blood circulation around the nails, promoting healthy growth. It is recommended to perform this massage for at least one minute.

The K-beauty trend isn’t just beneficial for skin and hair: the “slugging” technique for nails helps deeply moisturize and restore the nail plate. The method involves applying a thick occlusive product to thoroughly cleaned and hydrated nails, which seals in moisture and enhances absorption. After using a cream or oil, apply a thick layer of ointment, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor, on each nail. For maximum effect, put on cotton gloves and leave the product on overnight.

Interesting fact: a nail is 1,000 times more permeable to water than skin. This means that even ordinary exposure to water — such as washing your hands or doing the dishes — can weaken its structure and reduce its ability to retain moisture. To protect your nails, wear gloves during any water-related activities and immediately apply a moisturizing cream after contact with water. These simple measures are just as effective as hand care in preventing dryness and brittleness of the nails.

Although basic methods for caring for dry nails can be successfully applied at home — and this is even recommended — sudden changes in the color, texture, or shape of your nails should prompt a consultation with a specialist. If you have tried all the listed methods without results, professional help is also necessary, as the condition of your nails may reflect vitamin deficiencies or other health issues. In cases of sudden nail dryness and brittleness, consult a dermatologist or general practitioner, as this could be related to thyroid dysfunction or, in some cases, anemia.

Read also: How to Restore Your Nails at Home: 8 Effective Ways to Bring Back Strength and Shine