Our nails are alive – and just like us, they can have their off days. Feeling tired or lacking in strength, they become brittle, bendy or prone to peeling. And let’s not even talk about nail polish that barely lasts! Time to take action. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on – and how to bring your nails back to full strength.
Why do nails become soft?
Let’s get one thing straight: soft nails are a sign that your nails are in poor health. The keratin layers that make up the nail have been damaged, leaving them weak and vulnerable. They bend when pressed, peel back (ouch!) and break with ease.
So what’s behind it all? Here are some of the most common causes:
- Excess exposure to water and/or harsh chemicals that weaken the nail (household cleaners, strippers, solvents...).
- An unbalanced diet lacking in vitamin A, vitamin B8, and minerals like iron, zinc and magnesium, all essential for healthy keratin production.
- Frequent Gel Polish manicures.
- Harsh removal of polish or false nails, such as using acetone-based remover or over-filing the nail plate.
Now that we’ve identified the causes, it’s time to tackle them head-on. Strong, healthy nails are within reach – all it takes is a few simple steps and the right care. Let us guide you 😉
Want to say goodbye to soft nails? Discover our tailored nail care routines.
How to strengthen soft, brittle nails
Getting rid of soft nails is far from impossible. We’ve designed a flexible strengthening routine to help restore your nails in just 2 weeks.
The Basic Routine
Start simple with our Basic Routine for Soft Nails. Your essentials: Kératine Booster to strengthen and regenerate the nail plate and Green Oil to nourish deeply.
👉 How it works: Apply Kératine Booster three times a day on bare nails for one week, allowing it to dry fully. Complement with Green Oil once or twice a day, massaging it into the nail and surrounding area.
Kératine Booster and Green Oil – your go-to duo for soft nails.
The Starter Routine
Need something more intensive? Upgrade to the Starter Routine by adding the Fortifying Base Coat, a treatment base enriched with AHAs and silicon for long-lasting strength.
👉 How it works: This routine is split into two phases:
- Week 1: Follow the Basic Routine with Kératine Booster three times daily and Green Oil once or twice a day.
- Week 2: Apply the Fortifying Base Coat every other day up to 3 times a week on bare nails (layers can build up). Continue using Green Oil 1–2 times daily.
☝️ The Fortifying Base is a true multitasker: it works as a treatment and as a classic base coat under Green™ nail polish.
The power trio for stronger, healthier nails.
The Ultimate Routine
Ready to go all in and banish soft nails for good? Enter the Ultimate Routine, featuring five powerhouse products: Kératine Booster, Fortifying Base Coat, Green Oil, plus the Complete Serum for deep hydration and the Perfecting Concentrate for all-day nourishment.
👉 How it works: Split into two phases:
- Week 1: Apply Kératine Booster three times a day and allow it to fully absorb. Massage Complete Serum once or twice daily into nails and cuticles, and use Green Oil once a day. Keep the Perfecting Concentrate close at hand and apply as needed throughout the day.
- Week 2: Use the Fortifying Base Coat twice during the week, layering coats. Continue with the Complete Serum and Green Oil as before. And of course, don’t forget your Perfecting Concentrate for on-the-go care.
The Ultimate Routine: a complete task force for soft nails.
Habits that protect against soft nails
Once your routine is complete, keep your nails in tip-top shape with these easy habits:
🍽️ Eat a balanced diet: Make sure you're getting enough vitamins, minerals and protein to support healthy nail growth. Eggs, meat, legumes, leafy greens and dried fruits are all great choices.
👌 Keep nails neatly filed: Trying to grow long nails when they’re still soft or brittle is asking for trouble. It’s best to keep them short and gently file them. Use a fine-grain nail file for natural nails and always file in one direction to preserve the keratin layers. Want to master the perfect file? Check out our step-by-step guide.
🛡️ Protect your nails: Prevention is key! Wear gloves for housework or when using harsh products. Wash your hands only when necessary, using warm or cool water. Avoid using your nails as tools – there are better options for scraping or lifting! And please, no more nail biting – if you need help, try a touch of Bitter Nail Polish.
💅 A gentle, lasting manicure: A manicure can actually help you grow stronger nails, provided you follow a kind routine and use quality products. Choose vegan, bio-based polish formulas like Green™ or Green Flash™ for fans of Gel Polish. For removal, go for an acetone-free, gentle remover like the Green Flash™ Nail Polish Remover to maintain your nail’s natural oils. And avoid applying Gel Polish too frequently – give your nails a breather in between with nourishing treatments like Active Bright or Active Glow™.
Treating your nails to quality care: your best bet for strong nails and long-lasting manicures.
As we’ve seen, soft nails are simply weakened nails that need some TLC. Hydrated, nourished, filed and protected – they’ll soon be back to their strong, radiant best, ready for their next (gentle) manicure 😉
