Nailing it naturally: the ultimate guide to healthy nails

Get great nails without the hassle. In this article, we break down the world of natural nail care. The nail industry is currently worth over $12.46bn, and a growing number of people now subscribe to the toned down ‘clean girl’ nail trends, with muted french manicures galore. Of course, having fun with colours, textures, and patterns on your nails is a great way to express yourself. 

But even if nail art and styling aren’t your thing, it is always important to have a healthy foundation. We explain why.

Showing off your healthy nails isn’t just about their enticing aesthetics, they can also reflect your wellbeing.

How nails are used to examine the health of your body

Beyond being a blank canvas for the latest nail trends, nails are powerful indicators to examine the health status of your internal body systems. White spots, ridges, and discolouration are all indicators of nutritional imbalances. Some nail signs are even used to assist in the diagnosis of more serious conditions. We take a deep dive into how nail health can be improved with simple supplemental methods, natural nail care alternatives and when it may be time to see a health professional.

Whilst there are a lot of products available on the market, from nail hardeners to cuticle oils — taking care of your nails starts from within. Here is a breakdown of the nutrients that impact nail health:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): A water-soluble vitamin known for its role in promoting nail growth and preventing brittleness.  Pure Encapsulations Biotin 8mg 

• Zinc: A deficiency of zinc is commonly associated with white spots appearing on the nails. Supplements like  Viridian Balanced Zinc 15mg Complex  provide a sufficient amount of zinc to help ensure healthy nail growth.

• Iron: People who are deficient in iron may see ridges on their fingernails. Proper levels of iron support an even and smooth nail texture.

• Collagen: This protein gives nails strength and flexibility.  Neocell Collagen Beauty Builder  is a great form of collagen that supports flexible and strong nails.

• Essential fatty acids: Increased intake of omega-3 and omega-6 with the use of supplements such as  BodyBio Balance Oil  helps stimulate the cells lining the nail bed to protect against brittleness and weakness.

• MSM: This sulphur-rich compound in  Vimergy MSM  aids keratin production, making up the healthy composition of nails, skin and hair.

There is a lot of medical documentation available about nails as an indicator of health conditions. Here are some common nail complaints and what they may indicate about your health.

White spots

One of the most common issues with nails is the appearance of white spots, known as leukonychia, caused by an injury to the nail matrix as the result of a brittle nail surface. They are often indirect symptoms of mineral insufficiencies, such as low levels of zinc, selenium, or calcium .

White nails

When the entire nail turns white, it could be a sign of deficiency. This condition, often referred to as "Terry's nails," occurs when the nail bed loses its natural pink colour due to a lack of blood flow, often linked to low iron levels. White nails should not be ignored as they may be a sign of a serious underlying condition, please inform your healthcare provider.

Vertical ridges and streaks

Ridges on your fingernails could be more than just a cosmetic concern. There may be vertical ridges that relate to the deficiency of iron. Whilst discolouration that could appear blue or black in dark vertical streak formation may indicate a need for B12. These signs typically become more noticeable as the deficiency worsens.

Meanwhile, vertical reddish-black lines, known as a splinter haemorrhage, under the nail can have a number of causes. The most common would be from trauma that has burst a blood vessel under the nail. Other causes include psoriasis, nail infections, lupus, vasculitis, nail fungus, lichen planus, as a reaction to certain medications and numerous other systemic conditions.

Yellow nails

Yellow nails are very common, especially on the toes and are usually just down to wear and tear. However, yellow discolouration may also be due to a vitamin deficiency or a fungal infection. In some cases, nails that remain yellow despite repeated treatment can be a symptom of thyroid conditions, psoriasis, or diabetes.

Brittle nails

Brittle nails may indicate a deficiency in the nutrients needed for strong nails.

Nail pitting

Pitting at the tips of the nails, characterised by small depressions on the nail surface, may point to underlying diseases such as psoriasis or alopecia areata.

Nail clubbing

Clubbing is a process by which the nails begin to curve around the fingertips, and can be indicative of very serious health problems, such as arterial lung or heart disease. Therefore, this should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Spooning of the nails

This occurs when the nails appear concave and scoop upward, indicating iron deficiency anaemia or haemochromatosis. Spooning of the nails should also be examined by a healthcare professional.

Choose a toxin-free natural nail treatment

Conventional nail polish products could contain toxins such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, which are known to cause damage to the nail bed and even more serious problems, such as liver toxicity. Whereas natural products can reduce the risk of damage to your nail and promote long-lasting nail health.

Damaged nails

If your nails have been damaged from gel nails or acrylics, or if the harsh processes for nail product removal have finally taken their toll — specially designed multivitamins and supplements can help you restore the natural beauty of your nails. Such products, rich in biotin, collagen, and essential minerals, strengthen the nails and put life back into weakened structures, promoting healthier nail growth less prone to damage.

Comprehensive blends for great nail nutrition: