Expert: Keeley Dennyschene - 5/25/2008

Question
I have always prided myself on my fingernails, which have always been strong and healthy and I kept them relatively long and nicely manicured. For about the past year, though, they've been peeling in layers and my only option is to keep them really short. I thought that it was because last summer I was doing a lot of swimming and I knew the water and chlorine wasn't good for them, but it has continued. I've tried several strengthening polishes, but nothing seems to help. Is there anything else you can recommend? I do not want to get artificial nails or tips (and can't afford to spend a lot of money on multiple salon visits). Thanks for any help you might be able to offer.

Answer
Hi Rebecca

Unfortunately some nail strengthners and strengthening polishes have ingrediants like formaldehyde which give an instant boost to nail growth but to much use can cause the natural nail to become dry and brittle and even peel, i would suggest you treat them with lots of cuticle oil and handcream and check the back of the polish bottles to see what is inside them, most professional nail polishes are now formaldehyde free.

thanku
keeley
www.signature-nails.co.uk