I also have thin nails. I've found that I must have SOMETHING on them, or they'll break/split/tear throughout the day.

I use Biotin Ultimate Strength (turquoise bottle) from WalMart as a base coat. If I wanted, I could stop there and it would just look like I have a clear polish. (I don't know if a standard clear base coat would work as well).

Then I apply whatever color I'm in the mood for, whether it's a vivid or pastel. Minimum, two coats.

And finally, Sally Hanson Double Duty Base & Top Coat to protect the polish.

Yes, it's a real pain to put on four coats, but it's done wonders for my nails.

Friends who go to have their nails done, use a Gel type of polish which hardens using a UV light, I think. Cost = $50-ish, lasts more than two weeks. But as your nail grows, there's the "space" between polish and new nail that I personally can't stand. LOL But it's strong!

I'm wondering if you should get a consultation with nutritionist or a dietician. You might be lacking in vitamins or fatty etc.

I have dry skin, hair and nails. I only have my nails polished for a special event. Polish makes them split.

I try to keep them filed short.

Donna, have you evaluated your nutritional intake? In my experience, fingernails and skin are the two most obvious beneficiaries of a diet that supports them, either by foods or supplements. Also, some medications can do a real number on our bones, nails, skin, and hair. An investigation into the miner negative side effects of any prescription drugs that you take might reveal some interesting things.

I too have super thin nails that split all the time. As does my mom, as did my grandma. We also have ridges. It is hereditary. Following this to see if anyone has suggestions.

I’m allegic to the smell of nail polish and way too tom boyish to wear any. But would love to know if there is a non toxic clear something to be used.

I'm following along because I have always had weak, thin, peeling nails and I'm just used to it.

My skin is fine, and I have no other issues like that. Well, I have issues for sure but not nutrition related lol.

I have tried most products, and have been using the collagen proteins for a long while. I figure it doesn't hurt, but honestly NOTHING has helped.

I'd be happy with short, neat nails .

I keep my nails short but I find a polish called Nailtiques helps keep them from breaking and splitting. One thumbnail splits once it gets past the nail bed..

Ive had both gel and dazzle dry manicures and while they look nice and last long, once the polish is off my nails are in even worse condition. I believe this is because the nail is smoothed during the process, making it even thinner.

If you get adequate nutrition from food or supplements but still have symptoms of weak nails then you may want to look into improving your gut health so the body can better absorb all nutrients and minerals needed for strong nail and hair growth. The one probiotic that works great for me is L. reuteri. You can read more about it online. A quick google search gives some info,

Mechanisms of Action:

• Gut-hair/nail connection:
  L. reuteri contributes to a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to nutrient absorption, hormone regulation, and overall body health, all of which can impact hair and nail growth.
  Hormone regulation:
  L. reuteri can help regulate hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which play a role in hair growth cycles and can impact nail health.
• Reduced inflammation:
  Some strains of L. reuteri have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for both scalp and skin health, potentially improving hair follicle function and reducing nail inflammation.
• Increased nutrient absorption:
  A healthy gut microbiome can enhance the absorption of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, which are crucial for hair and nail growth.

Thank you all for sharing what has and has not worked for you. I've been researching and I see there is still much more to look into!

I knew someone years ago who had amazingly strong nails. She put it down to eating jello every day. That would fit in with smiling's collagen suggestion.

Interesting about collagen. I have ehlers danlos syndrome (EDS), which is a genetic connective tissue disease that impacts collagen production. Maybe this is why the women in my family who have this disease also have ridges and splitting nails. Unfortunately, taking collagen does not help mitigate the symptoms of EDS.

Just looked up Nailtiques. It contains formaldehyde. Not good for me. If anyone knows of a less chemically version of this, please post it!

For about a month now, I've been on a probiotic kick to improve gut health. I've been eating kimchee or sauerkraut every day, starting with my morning coffee (not as bad as it sounds.) All of a sudden, my weak nails have gotten strong. Win / win!

I have the same problem. I started using Hard as Hooves but can't stand the smell, so I quit that. My digestive system can't handle collagen. I may try kimchi or sauerkraut, as Jupidupi does. Seems easy enough to eat a little every day.

I just ordered the Mavala Scientifique nail hardener on this page the other day, but the sale price ends tonight: MAVALA SWITZERLAND

Mavala Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Dimethyl Urea, Alcohol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Disodium Phosphate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Allium Sativum (Garlic) Bulb Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Benzoic Acid, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Blue 1 (CI 42090), Limonene, Citral.[F995/1]

I take only one prescription (have been taking it for about a year), Chlorthalidone, for high blood pressure. I take potassium OTC, also for high blood pressure. I gave up salt and coffee for the same reason. I make masala chai ( I LOVE ginger) for my morning drink.

Smiling, thank you for the info about the collagen proteins. I ordered some today.

Truly, I appreciate all of the input from the group! Lots of good info and suggestions.