Beauty Today's Woman February 25, 2025 0 Comments

9 Best Nail Strengtheners of 2025, Tested and Derm-Approved

Your nails go through a lot: handwashing, polishing, maybe some absent-minded picking (guilty). It’s only normal to find the occasional chip—but if you’re noticing that your tips are peeling or cracking far beyond what a manicure can fix, using a nail strengthener can help.

Think of these hydrating treatments like moisturizers for your mani. They can help hydrate and protect your nails so they’re less prone to breakage, Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Derm in Fort Wayne, Indiana, tells SELF. Bonus: They’re thin, (mostly) clear, and dry faster than regular polish, so they only take a few minutes to apply.

To find the best nail strengtheners, we chatted dermatologists up to learn which key ingredients you should look for. We also tested a bunch of options from top brands like O.P.I and Sally Hansen to find out if they really work. Ready to try one? Shop our favorites below.

Our top picks

Best Overall: O.P.I. Nail Envy Original Nail Strengthener
Runner-Up: Olive & June Advanced Nail Strengthener
Best Budget Pick: Sally Hansen Hard As Nails

In this article

FAQs about nail strengtheners

Which ingredients should you look for in a nail strengthener?

Keep an eye out for these dermatologist favorites.

Keratin is a protein your body naturally produces that strengthens your nails.
Hyaluronic acid, butylene glycol, lactic acid, and panthenol are hydrating ingredients that’ll help your nails retain moisture.
Jojoba oil and almond oils will moisturize your nail beds and cuticles.
Vitamin A prevents brittleness, vitamin C reduces breakage, and vitamin E promotes growth.
Calcium forms a protective film over your nails that acts like a shield, according to Dr. Houshmand.