Would I get that at a Big R or Fleet Supply place? They sell tack, feed and meds for horses. Do you know a brand name? Thanks!

I'm sorry, but i beg to differ on the false nail point. I used to bite my nails whne I was little which meant that when i stopped my nails were super bendy and thin. I tried false nails for about a year, non-stop and now my nails are really strong!

Also, nails don't breathe. They are a layer of keratin which are there to prptect the soft squishy stuff underneath. If they did breathe, millions of people would have dead fingertips from wearing nail-varnish on a continuous basis.

For sure!

Most prenatals that I have seen do not have excessive amounts of iron. In fact, having managed a vitamin store for over 15 years, I haven't seen any prenatal with stonger than 18mg. of iron. I often recommened a good multi vitamin, in general, to everyone who doesn't eat a perfectly balanced diet (which is most every person with whom I come in contact with).

In fact, "spoon" nails and vertical ridges in the nails can be a sign of iron deficiency. Other signs of deficiency can also include brittle hair, hair loss, fatigue, dizziness, and anemia. A doctor should investigate symptoms. Deficiency may result from internal bleeding, excessive menstrual bleeding, poor digestion, ulcers, as well as long-term illness. In some cases, vitamin B6 or B12 deficiency is the underlying cause of anemia.

Really though, iron is way besides the point, in this case.

Nutrients which are very important for your nails include...
Vitamin A, Calcium, B-complex, Biotin, Protein, Gelatin, and Silica.
Also, a great multi-vitamin and mineral complex.

Try your local vitamin or health foods store. If your not eating a complete and balanced diet, to help with your body's nutritional needs, I'd say atleast get a multi-vit (one better than Centrum). Ask the shop-keeper for a good hair, skin, and nail formula. It won't contain all the essential vitamins and minerals, but it will contain a combination of nutrients beneficial for hair, skin, and nail health.

Good Luck - growing your nails!

My nails just seem to "magically" get better, stronger, longer when my diet is really good and healthy, with lots of fruits and veggies. And I seem to see a connection between my nails and my hair. When my hair is happy with my shampoo and conditioner combo, my nails seem to thrive.

Of course, hair and shampoo and conditioner is different for everyone…

This is all pretty good information! I am a nail professional and also an Education Ambassador for a nail product company, Creative Nail Design. It is true that diet, exercise, and good health will reflect in your nail condition. However, some people are born with better nails than others. (Thats genetics for ya!) Nail hardeners will only work if you have weak, paper thin nails. And watch out for nail hardeners that contain formaldehyde as their main ingredient for hardening nails. It works, but it will cause your nails to become overly hard and brittle. If your nails are dry, peeling or snapping, a nail hardener will only make them worse. If your nails are brittle you do need a cuticle oil to help keep them flexible. I like SolarOil, not only because my company makes it, but because it is a blend of Jojoba, Rice Bran and Almond Oils with Vitamin E. It penetrates deeply giving your nails flexibility and toughness.

As far as supplements go, there is nothing that will make your nails grow faster or harder. And the products that are used for artificial nails, do not damage your nails. Your nails can become damaged from improper maintenance or removal of enhancements but not from the products themselves.

At CND, we have a philosophy called the three C's when it comes to natural nail care. Care, Coat, Condition. Care - manicure your nails on a regular basis or get a manicure from a professional. Coat - wear a protective coating on your nail, such as nail enamel. Condition - make sure to use a moisturizing, penetrating oil or lotion to keep your nails flexible.

If you would like more information, visit our website at www.cnd.com

Hope that helps!

Blackie..
<<after a while, you are more and more limited in what you can do with your hands and your fingertips particularly >>

not true. I have decent length nails and I do everything.. infact I am one step betther because I always have some built in tools. I have played city league co-ed softball..fast pitch even. I have horses, dogs and now goats..I built a house from foundaition to roof [during that time was the only time I took off my nails - when we were pulling wire.. a lot of abuse to hands,, not just nails] but after that - back on they are.When I did take them off.. I just kept them short and they were no differnt then I remember they were when I put them on some 15 + years before. The trick is to have a good nail person.. and NO primer acid stuff ! Try Creative "dip" style.. works like charm - no 'lifting'