Shiny Nails Secret

These tips will give you strong and healthy nails and make you fall in love with them.

Reviewed by Gabrielle Richens, Skin Therapist Gabrielle Richens Gabrielle RichensSkin Therapist facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by Jyotsana Rao, BE Jyotsana Rao BE linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by Subhrojyoti Mukherjee, MA (English) Subhrojyoti Mukherjee MA (English) linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Fact-checked by Joyce Joyson, MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) Joyce Joyson MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) linkedin_icon
Last Updated on

Nail polishes may seem like a quick way of getting shiny nails, but they may not be the best choice for nail care and hygiene. But here are some shiny nail secrets for you. Your nail polishes are most probably loaded with chemicals that dry out your nails and cuticles. The preservative in their formula becomes a barrier and prevents oxygen from penetrating the nail. It is only natural that your nails look dry and damaged due to the lack of proper oxygen to the cuticles surrounding them. Also, pedicures and aesthetics are essential for proper grooming and lifestyle. Shiny nails are made with good nutrition and natural remedies available right in your kitchen! So, it is high time you take a break from regularly painting your nails and give them some breathing space. Scroll down for some ideas!

protip_icon Keep In Mind
  • Natural Nail Brightening Agents: Dip nails in lemon juice and vitamin E, sesame or coconut oil for a natural glow.
  • Nails Strengthening Supplements: Vitamin D, fish oil, sesame seeds and Ashwagandha herb powder and extract (Withania Somnifera) help strengthen your nails.
  • Caution: Avoid biting your nails and frequent gel manicures.
  • DIY: Create your own nail stickers by painting a design onto a plastic bag and letting it dry completely. Once dry, peel the design off the plastic bag and apply it on your nails.

Healthy and shiny nails secret

How To Make Nails Shiny?

Maintain Good Health

Many people get behind nail products that claim to strengthen and lengthen nails like magic within fewer days. We spend a huge amount of money on them, but the result is always zero. Our nails are still brittle, dry, weak and lifeless. Have you ever wondered why they don’t work? Because you need to be healthier first to achieve shiny nails, not only the topical treatments work. It could be due to a vitamin deficiency. Your nails can reflect your overall health, and deficiencies in certain nutrients can lead to brittle, discolored, or ridged nails. Always nails reflect our overall health so do also check them carefully. Foods rich in B-complex, Iron, Vitamin A,C,D and Calcium are very essential for nail health. Include fresh vegetables, nuts, whole grains and greens to get those nail vitamins. Drinking of at least 8 glasses of water every day is also necessary to maintain good nail health. Remember, healthy nails always shine!


protip_icon Quick Tip
Regularly clean the instruments used for your manicure at home and disinfect them before and after each use. You can use natural disinfectants like tea tree oil to prevent infections.

Petroleum Jelly Works

Woman with petroleum jelly on fingers
Image: Shutterstock

Carry a small Vaseline tub in your hand bag wherever you go. Take some and massage your nails gently after every hand wash. This prevents loss of moisture and thus your nourished nails shine forever! If you are lazy about any other treatments, Vaseline or any other petroleum jelly just works. Massage your nails with them especially after every bath and before going to bed every night. You can also use colorless lip balms as your nail cream, they do wonders. Nail care involves keeping your nails moisturized and using a top coat and base coat for proper nail protection.

Check out some nail products in the next section that will help you maintain your nail health.

Recommended Products For Maintaining Nail Health

A woman applying a top coat to her nails
Image: Shutterstock

Here are some recommended types of nail products that promote shine and health.

  1. Nail Oils: Nourishing oils that contain natural ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, or avocado oil. These help to hydrate and strengthen nails and cuticles.
  2. Nail Creams: Thick, hydrating creams or butter designed for cuticles. Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or citrus oils are great for softening and moisturizing.
  3. Nail Polishes: High-quality nail polishes that are free from harmful chemicals. Look for options that provide a glossy finish and are long-lasting.
  4. Top Coats: Protective top coat for enhancing shine and shielding your nail polish from chipping. Look for fast-drying formulas that provide a glossy finish.
  5. Nail Strengtheners: Good-quality strengthening treatment to reinforce weak or brittle nails. Products with proteins or calcium can help improve nail health.

Incorporating these types of products into your nail care routine can help keep your nails looking vibrant and healthy!

Homemade Nail Soaks For Shiny Nails

Isn’t it natural to make your own nail soaks from kitchen ingredients? Of course, it is very easy too, you can make one in seconds. Regular maintenance, such as doing a manicure at home, not only keeps your nails looking good but also strengthens them over time. Many of the kitchen ingredients contain antioxidants, which are essential for nail health. They strengthen nails and make them look beautiful and shiny. Check out the following recipes and try them in your leisure time to become the owner of shiny beautiful nails.

i) Olive Oil For Nails

Person applying olive oil on nails
Image: Shutterstock

Olive oil is an excellent natural potion found in most of the cosmetic products and it does wonders in healing damaged brittle nails. Heat the olive oil until it is warm, remember not hot. Now pour this in a bowl and dip your nails into the warm oil. If you’re doing this for your toe nails, make the tub big. Leave on for 2 minutes, take out your hands and wear cotton gloves. You can leave this overnight or for an hour as per your wish. Wash off with fresh water and moisture with a good hand and nail cream after that. On a similar note, A YouTuber shared her thoughts on what habits one can incorporate to improve nail health. She said, “So, I take one drop of oil on the palm of my hands, and I kind of smear it around my nails. Then I take a tiny amount of lotion and rub it in (i).” The blogger emphasized that it’s not the amount of oil that you apply but the consistency of it that’s what matters. She also stated that this technique does not leave hands feeling greasy.

ii) Milk

Hands holding a glass of milk
Image: Shutterstock

Don’t have time or just feeling lazy? Leave your worries. Pour some warm milk into a bowl and dip your nails into the milk. Wait for a few minutes, let your nails absorb nourishment from the milk. Wash off and moisturize with a nail cream or even a cold cream.

iii) Rose Water

Mashed avocado mixed rose water also acts as a nourishing nail soak.

Brittle and dull nails get nourished and moisturized by following this nail soak regularly. Good nourishment is the key to shiny nails.

Mashed avocado mixed with rose water for shiny nails

iv) Coconut Oil

Beautiful female hands over coconuts
Image: Shutterstock

Coconut oil is rich in essential nutrients and fats that nourish the skin around the nails and the cuticles. A nail soak with coconut oil and a spoonful of salt can make them stronger and promote nail growth. The salt provides fortifying minerals to the nails, while coconut oil deeply moisturizes and helps strengthen damaged nails, treat hangnails, and prevent nail ridges.

v) Baby Oil

Earbuds, cuticle scissors, and baby oil on a wooden table
Image: Shutterstock

Sufficient hydration of the cuticles and nail bed can ensure that your nails always look shiny and healthy. Use a cotton swab and soak it in baby oil. Apply the oil all over the nails and cuticle and let it soak for about 30 minutes. Finally, wipe off the excess oil and moisturize with a hand cream. You can do this daily to get shiny and beautiful nails.

Important Tips to be Remembered:

  • Avoid acetone-based nail polishes if you want shiny nails. They make your nails brittle and damaged for sure.
  • Wear gloves while doing household works, such as washing clothes and dishes, as they may lead to peeling of nails.
  • Maintain a healthy diet with biotin and zinc supplements after consulting your physician. This works great and shows faster results.
  • Make sure to follow nail care tips and tricks is essential for long-lasting, healthy nails.
protip_icon Quick Tip
If you notice your nail polish peeling off, avoid scrapping it as it results in the loss of your nail’s natural protective layer. Use a nail polish remover instead.

Infographic: 5 Effective Tips For Shiny Nails

We know how annoying it is to maintain shiny nails. Keeping them clean can be quite tiresome and may also require many salon visits. No worries, we’ve got your back! Check out the infographic below to take a look at the most effective ways to brighten your nails right at home.

5 effective tips for shiny nails (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

While regular usage of nail polishes may give you shiny nails, in the long run, it may lead to dry and brittle nails. It’s important to prioritize nail health and beauty. Instead of spending too much money on nail polishes or artificial nails, eating a healthy diet rich in vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, and drinking plenty of water will straighten and add shine to your nails. You can make homemade nail soaks with olive oil or milk to keep your nails hydrated. Additionally, exfoliation and buffing are crucial for removing dead skin cells and promoting healthy and shiny nail growth. Following these shiny nail secrets mentioned in this article will keep your nails strong and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best ingredients for shiny nails?

The best ingredients for shiny nails include jojoba oil, vitamin E, shea butter, and calcium. These ingredients can nourish and strengthen your nails, supporting their good health and shiny appearance.

Why are my nails not shiny?

Poor nutrition, improper digestion, frequent contact with chemicals such as detergents and harsh soaps, and overuse of nail polish, filers, or gel nails are reasons why nails lose their healthy sheen.

Does alcohol make gel nails shiny?

Alcohol can thoroughly remove any dirt and grime on the nails and prepare it for a coat of gel nails. While it does not directly make gel nails shiny, it helps clean up the nails and remove any residue that can interfere with the gel nails sticking properly to your nails.

Are there any particular nail products or tools that can help improve nail shine?

Nail glosses or top coats as well as buffer boards are nail products and tools that can help improve nail shine. For those interested in achieving a smooth nail surface, learning what nail buffing is and how to do it at home can help you maintain a polished look.

How do I care for my cuticles and surrounding skin to enhance nail appearance and shine?

To enhance nail appearance, you can moisturize your cuticles and surrounding skin daily, avoid cutting them, and gently push them back.

What are some potential causes of nail damage or weakness, and how can I prevent these issues from affecting nail shine?

Poor diet, using harsh chemicals, constant nail paint and nail art application with breaks and excessive filing can cause nail damage. Have a balanced diet, wear gloves, take breaks between nail art sessions, and use gentle products on your nails to achieve shiny nails.

How do I choose a high-quality nail polish or nail care product to ensure optimal nail health and shine?

Before buying or using the product on your nails, read the label of the product. Check for the ingredients list and opt for only those products that offer nourishment and strengthening ingredients to promote nail health and shine.

Key Takeaways

    • Clean and file your nails before moisturizing your cuticles.
    • Maintain a healthy and balanced diet to ensure that your nails receive the best nutrition.
    • Avoid applying acetone-based nail paints as they make your nails brittle.
    • Wear protective gloves while handling soaps or chemicals to avoid nail injury.

Illustration: How To Make Nails Shiny And Healthy At Your Home? - Simple DIYs

Shiny Nails Secret

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Image courtesy – Google Images

Learn how to get smooth and shiny nails naturally at home! Click on the video and follow the simple steps to get beautiful nails without spending a fortune.

Personal Experience: Source

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Gabrielle Richens
Gabrielle RichensSkin Therapist
Gabrielle Richens spent 20 years as a model with Elite Model Management. She is now a skin therapist, clean beauty blogger, and founder of The Rich Skin Club, an online anti-aging coaching service. She helps women understand the aging process and how to build routines that reverse the visible signs of premature aging.

Read full bio of Gabrielle Richens
Jyotsana Rao
Jyotsana RaoBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Jyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty - makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.

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Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Subhrojyoti MukherjeeAssociate Editor
Subhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.

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Joyce Joyson
Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

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