The secret to great looking, natural fingernails

Years ago, I was sitting in a Bible study when I noticed my friend Sheila's hands; I commented on her beautiful nails but her response wasn't what I expected.

"I work at it."

Work at it?  I always thought you were either born with them or bought artificial (Lee Press Ons?  acrylic?  does it matter?); it had never before occurred to me to work at it.  It was motivating.

My first attempt at "working at it" was to go acrylic.  I found out quickly that wasn't what she meant by "work at it" and it definitely wasn't for me; my nails looked fake and I just didn't like their feel.  Factor in the cost and upkeep, and I was done almost as soon as I began.

Then I heard about a little product that changed my life (or at least the "life" of my fingernails):  Nailtiques

My nails were severely damaged following removal of the acrylics; a friend suggested "Nailtiques After Artificial Treatment".  At $20, it was a bit pricey for what looked like clear polish, but I took her word for it.  While it didn't repair them overnight, in a few weeks I was blown away by the improvement.  Over time, I graduated to "Formula 2" and they continued to heal...and grow...ON THEIR OWN!

Initially, I think I brushed a coat on daily; now, once a week is sufficient.  If I go more than a few weeks without taking care of my nails, they start breaking; if I go back to somewhat regular use of Nailtiques, they start growing again.

Invest in a bottle--I'm certain you'll see a difference, even if you've never had long nails before (and at a fraction of the cost and time required for acrylics).

Don't fall into the trap of thinking it's too much trouble or requires inordinate time!   While I'm watching "American Idol", mani's are a part of my routine; Nailtiques application takes maybe 10 minutes to brush on and dry.  It's a v e r y favorable Pavlovian connection.  Which is kinda weird, but not.

Comments

[Runningamuck]

I ALWAYS struggle with my nails. Have done the acrylic nail route too but just can't find the time or money to keep it up. I'm definitely going to try this out. Thanks.

[Corrie]

Great tip, I've never heard of that product and will have to try it.

[Damsel]

What a neat product... Mine have always grown best when I'm taking prenatals and a calcium supplement, so now I take them everyday!

[Niki]

Great tip...never heard of this stuff!

:)

[Sister Honey Bunch]

I could use that. My nails are sooo not pretty.

[Britni]

I got one of those sets at the mall that have the little scrub/rub thing and lotion and absolutely love it when I have time to do it. It really makes your nails strong and shiny!

[Michelle@Life with Three]

I love Nailtiques. When I use it regularly, I don't even have to go for a manicure -- my nails look that good. I haven't used it in a while, though. I was just thinking the other day that I need to start up again. Thanks for the reminder!

[Crystal]

You know, my nails would never grow well until the past few years. But of course, now I have to keep them short or they get icky from the jewelry thing. They also get in the way when I play guitar. *sigh*

[Peculiar]

Thanks for the tip. I have decent nails now for really the first time in my life, and I really need any tip for keeping them looking great and in good shape. Hubby loves my natural nails! I will look into getting some of this, although paying $20 for a nail product is really a luxury. I never would have considered it. Hubby may think it's a good investment of mine though.:)

[Jodi]

where did you find yours? I'd love to try it but have never seen it before...thanks!

[Chel]

I get acrylics and hate having to keep them up... where do I get this stuff?