Are you tired of short, brittle nails that just won’t grow no matter what you do? Look no further; this guide on how to grow nails faster with coconut oil and salt is here to help!
Healthy, strong, and fast-growing nails are a beauty goal for many, but achieving them can sometimes feel elusive. A natural remedy gaining popularity involves using coconut oil and salt—two ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Coconut oil is renowned for its moisturizing and nourishing properties, which can help strengthen nails and promote growth. Meanwhile, salt, especially in a soak, can enhance circulation and provide essential minerals that bolster nail health.
Combining these two ingredients allows you to craft an effective home treatment to help your nails grow faster and stronger.
Benefits of using Coconut Oil and Salt for Nail Growth
Coconut oil and salt have been used for centuries as natural remedies for various health and beauty issues, including nail growth. Here are some of the benefits of using them specifically for growing longer, stronger nails:
- Rich in Nutrients: Coconut oil is packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that nourish your nails and promote healthy growth. Similarly, salt contains minerals like magnesium and potassium that strengthen your nails from within.
- Moisturizing Properties: Both coconut oil and salt have moisturizing properties that prevent your nails from becoming dry and brittle, which can lead to breakage and slow growth.
- Stimulates Circulation: When used in a soak, salt stimulates circulation. This increased blood flow brings more nutrients and oxygen to the nail bed, promoting faster growth.
- Antifungal Properties: Coconut oil has antifungal properties that can help prevent nail infections, which can hinder nail growth.
These are just a few of the benefits of using coconut oil and salt for nail growth. Now, let’s dive into how to actually use them for optimal results.
What Will You Need?
To get started, you will need:
- ½ cup of warm coconut oil
- ¼ cup of salt (Epsom or sea salt)
- A bowl or basin big enough to soak your hands in
Once you have these items, you’re ready to begin!
10 Easy Steps on How to Grow Nails Faster With Coconut Oil and Salt
Step 1. Prepare the Mixture:
Start by warming up the coconut oil until it’s comfortably warm but not too hot to touch. You can do this by microwaving it for about 20-30 seconds or placing the container of coconut oil in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes. While the coconut oil is warming, measure out ¼ cup of salt. You can use either Epsom salt or sea salt, both of which are rich in minerals that are beneficial for nail health. Once the coconut oil is warmed, mix the salt into the oil thoroughly. Stir until the salt is fully dissolved, creating a consistent blend.
Step 2. Soak Your Nails
Pour the prepared mixture into a bowl or basin big enough to fit both of your hands. Set yourself up in a comfortable position because you’ll be soaking your nails for at least 10-15 minutes. Make sure your nails are completely submerged in the mixture. The warm coconut oil will soften the cuticles and moisturize your nails, while the salt will help to exfoliate and improve blood circulation to the nail beds.
Step 3. Massage Your Nails
After soaking your nails for 10-15 minutes, remove them from the mixture and gently pat them dry with a clean towel, leaving a slight residue of the oil and salt on your nails. Begin to massage each nail and its surrounding cuticles in a circular motion. This massage will help to stimulate blood circulation further, ensuring that essential nutrients are delivered to your nail beds. Focus on each nail for about 1-2 minutes, providing even and gentle pressure. Rubbing the oil and salt mixture into your nails helps to strengthen them and enhances their natural shine. The massage also promotes relaxation and stress relief, which can positively affect your overall nail health.
Step 4. Rinse and Pat Dry
Once you have thoroughly massaged your nails and cuticles, proceed to rinse off the mixture with lukewarm water. It’s crucial to remove all remnants of the coconut oil and salt mixture to prevent any build-up or greasiness. Pat your hands and nails dry gently with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing aggressively, as this can cause unnecessary friction and potential damage to your softened cuticles and fragile nails.
Step 5. Moisturize
After rinsing and drying your hands, it’s important to lock in the moisture by applying a good quality hand cream or moisturizer. Look for products that contain natural ingredients such as shea butter, aloe vera, or additional coconut oil to enhance the benefits of your treatment. Focus on your nails and cuticles, making sure to massage the cream thoroughly into these areas. This helps retain the moisture absorbed during the soak and provides a protective barrier against external factors that might cause dryness or damage.
Step 6. Trim and File Your Nails
With your nails now softened from the soak, this is an opportune time to trim and file them. Use nail clippers to trim your nails to your desired length carefully. Follow up by using a nail file to shape and smooth the edges. Be gentle to avoid creating any jagged edges or causing splits in the nail. Always file in one direction to minimize stress on the nails.
Step 7. Apply a Strengthening Base Coat
Apply a strengthening base coat to protect your nails further and encourage growth. These products are designed to fortify your nails by adding a layer of protection against breakage and peeling. Many strengthening base coats contain ingredients like keratin, biotin, or calcium that are known to enhance nail health. Allow the base coat to dry thoroughly before proceeding with any additional nail polish or treatments.
Step 8. Repeat Regularly
For optimal results in promoting faster nail growth, consistency is key. Make it a routine to repeat this coconut oil and salt treatment at least twice a week. Regular treatments will ensure your nails and cuticles remain nourished, hydrated, and strong. Over time, you’ll notice your nails growing longer and healthier. Maintaining a consistent schedule not only maximizes the benefits of the treatment but also helps establish a self-care habit that contributes to overall nail health.
Step 9. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Nail health is also significantly influenced by your diet. Ensure that you’re consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for nail growth. Foods high in biotin, such as eggs, nuts, and seeds, are particularly beneficial for strong and healthy nails. Vitamin E, found in foods like spinach and avocados, and omega-3 fatty acids in fish and flaxseeds can also improve nail strength and growth. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to brittle nails.
Step 10. Protect Your Nails
In addition to the treatments and dietary considerations, protecting your nails from damage is crucial. Wear gloves when engaging in activities that could chip or break your nails, such as gardening or washing dishes. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape surfaces, as this can cause stress and lead to breakage. Keep your nails at a manageable length to prevent snagging and tearing. Moreover, minimize exposure to harsh chemicals found in some nail polishes and nail polish removers by opting for gentler, nail-friendly products.
By incorporating these steps into your nail care routine, you can achieve faster, stronger nail growth, allowing your nails to maintain their health and beauty naturally.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
1. Consistent Application:
To effectively grow nails faster, it’s essential to apply a mixture of coconut oil and salt consistently. Make a habit of massaging this mixture into your nails and cuticles every night before bed. Consistency will help maximize the benefits.
2. Soak Your Nails
Create a warm soak using a bowl of warm water, a tablespoon of coconut oil, and a teaspoon of salt. Soak your nails in this mixture for about 15-20 minutes a few times a week to nourish and strengthen them.
3. Use as a Scrub
You can use coconut oil and salt as a gentle scrub to exfoliate and remove dead skin around your nails. Mix equal parts of coconut oil and salt, then gently scrub your nails and cuticles with the mixture to promote healthier, faster-growing nails.
4. Protect Your Nails
After applying coconut oil and salt, wear cotton gloves overnight to allow the mixture to absorb into your nails and cuticles fully. This will also protect your nails from external damage while you sleep.
5. Avoid Excessive Manicures
While it’s tempting to manicure your nails frequently, excessive filing and buffing can weaken them. Limit manicures, and when you do, ensure your nails are well-hydrated with coconut oil beforehand to prevent breaking and splitting.
With these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to having strong, healthy, and beautiful nails in no time.
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Using Excessive Salt:
While salt is beneficial in small quantities, too much can dry out your nails and cuticles, leading to brittleness and breakage. Always use the recommended amounts to ensure your nails remain healthy and moisturized.
2. Over-Massaging:
Massaging your nails and cuticles is essential, but overdoing it can cause trauma and damage. Be gentle and limit your massage sessions to a few minutes each night to promote growth without causing harm.
3. Ignoring Hydration:
Hydration is crucial for nail health. Coconut oil provides essential moisture, but it’s also important to drink plenty of water to keep your nails hydrated. Ignoring this can lead to dry, brittle nails that are prone to breaking.
4. Using Harsh Chemicals:
Avoid harsh chemicals and nail products that can strip the natural oils from your nails and cuticles. This includes acetone-based nail polish removers and aggressive cleaning agents. Stick to gentle, nourishing products to protect your nails.
5. Skipping Sun Protection:
Just like your skin, your nails can be damaged by UV exposure. When using coconut oil and salt, ensure you protect your nails from prolonged sun exposure, as it can lead to dryness and damage. Wearing gloves when doing outdoor activities is a simple but effective way to shield your nails.
By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to achieving strong, healthy nails that proliferate and look fabulous. Remember that everyone’s nail growth journey is unique, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.
Conclusion
Incorporating coconut oil and salt into your nail care routine can significantly accelerate nail growth and enhance overall health. The natural properties of coconut oil, rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, and the exfoliating and strengthening benefits of salt create a powerful duo for promoting healthy nails. By consistently applying these tips on how to grow nails faster with coconut oil and salt, you can effectively nourish and strengthen your nails.
It’s also important to avoid overusing salt, excessive massaging, and harsh chemicals while ensuring you stay hydrated and protect your nails from UV exposure. Remember, patience and consistency are key.
You can achieve the strong, beautiful nails you’ve always desired with dedication and the right care. Your journey to healthier nails is unique, so keep at it and enjoy pampering your nails with these natural remedies.
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.