The internet is full of before and after photos demonstrating the effects and benefits of everything from nail growth serums to lash growth serums and even hair growth serums. But, as with anything that goes viral on social media, it's always worth doing the research to figure out exactly how these products work—and of course, whether they do indeed work in the first place.
As a beauty editor I've tried my fair share of products over the years and while I'm well-versed in all things skincare and haircare, when it comes to nailcare, I like to turn to the professionals. Manicurists and nail techs have their hands and eyes (quite literally) on nails all day long, so when it comes to product recommendations, they always know what works—and what doesn't.
Earlier this year, fed up with nails that felt weak and thin, and broke as soon as they started to extend past my fingertips, I turned to my manicurist, Ashleigh Bamber for help. She immediately sent me a link to CND Rescuerxx Daily Keratin Treatment along with a lengthy voice note raving about its benefits. I purchased instantly, and upon its arrival began a four week-long break from nail polish in order to apply the treatment to my nails twice daily.
Some of us are genetically blessed with long nails, thick eyelashes and a full head of hair, but others may be in need of a helping hand. If short, brittle nails are the bane of your life, you're in the right place. Scroll down for my edit of the very best nail growth serums, including my ultimate favourite.
How do nail growth serums work?
"Contrary to popular belief, nail growth serums don't work by directly speeding up the growth of your nails," says Bamber. "Unfortunately, nothing can work magic quite like that!" This is because the speed of our nail growth is, much like hair growth, dictated by our genetics and hormones, and impacted by factors like our health, lifestyle, age, and your job.
"Instead, they work by improving nail health and by protecting the nail from anything that might be causing it damage," she explains. "The healthier and stronger our nails are, the better they will grow, and they will be less likely to break, meaning they do eventually grow longer."
How do you use nail growth serums?
While the exact usage can differ depending on the treatment you opt for, most nail growth serums are designed to be applied to bare nails on a daily or twice daily basis for a number of days or weeks. This allows them to deliver their benefits directly to the nail and means that they can work uninterrupted. "Remember that taking care of what you've already got is the best place to start," adds Bamber. "You'll get better results from a short healthy nail than from a long, brittle one."
Shop the Best Nail Growth Serums:
- CND Rescuerxx Daily Keratin Treatment
- OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
- Dadi'oil Nail Treatment
- Nailberry Acai Nail Elixir
- Sally Hansen Nail Growth Miracle Treatment
- Nails Inc. Glow and Grow Nail Growth Treatment
- Orly Nailtrition Nail Strengthener
- OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
1. CND Rescuerxx Daily Keratin Treatment
According to Bamber this is something of a nail tech's secret weapon, and the reviews certainly speak for themselves. I used this daily for a month and within just a few weeks my nails felt so much stronger. I knew I was a convert when they started to gain length, but didn't flake or break as they usually do. The key ingredient is keratin proteins which work by bonding to the natural nail in order to strengthen and restore moisture.
2. OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
Also highly recommend and well-reviewed, OPI's Repair Mode utilises a patented Ulti-Plex technology which penetrates the nail surface to build new bonds from within.
3. Dadi'oil Nail Treatment
This lightweight oil is designed to absorb quickly and penetrate deeply into the nail to improve both strength and flexibility—resulting in longer, healthier nails. It also helps to soften hard cuticles and nourish dry hands, too.
4. Nailberry Acai Nail Elixir
This nail growth serum combines strengthening actives with hydrating natural oils, rich in vitamin E to nourish and protect nails.
5. Sally Hansen Nail Growth Miracle Treatment
This cult favourite draws upon the benefits of soy protein to bind moisture to nails, keratin to protect nails against splitting, cracking and tearing, and collagen to stimulate healthy nail growth.
6. Nails Inc. Glow and Grow Nail Growth Treatment
Designed to be used like a daily moisturiser for your nails, this serums draws upon the benefits of hyaluronic acid and castor oil to deeply nourish dry nails and aid in bond repair. The result? Longer, stronger nails.
7. Orly Nailtrition Nail Strengthener
Ideal for nails which are in poor health after extended periods wearing gel or acrylics, this nail strengthener is designed to be used as an intensive 14-day treatment.
8. OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
If you don't like the thought of wearing bare nails, this serum-boosted nail polish delivers strengthening and lengthening benefits alongside colour.
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