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Beauty/Makeup/Nails/Tools & Treatments

Top 10 Nail Strengtheners

Weak Nails? These Top-Rated Nail Strengtheners Are Your Secret Weapon

Image credits: target

Caring for your nails often feels like being stuck in a revolving door. One day they’re long, healthy, and covered in the cutest shade of polish. The next, they’re chipped, weak, and ready to be hidden under a pair of gloves (who cares if it’s the wrong season). Whether nail-biting, excessive handwashing, or too many visits to the salon are to blame, there’s only one thing that can help break the cycle: a strengthened nail. 

An effective nail strengthener is all you need to get your tips back into perfect shape. Packed with essential vitamins, proteins, and emollients, nail strengtheners help nails grow stronger and longer—and the benefits don’t end there. Many of them layer underneath regular polish, allowing you to swipe on a coat and still keep your color of choice on top.

With that in mind, we've rounded up a list of the absolute best nail strengtheners out there right now. Whether you were born with not-so-great nails or you’ve got damage from one too many acrylic manicures, the top-rated formulas below will give your digits some much-needed rehab.

How We Found The Best Nail Strengtheners

At Rank & Style, we're all about getting things right the first time. Our mission is to make your shopping experience as simple as possible because as much as we love a great return policy, we don't think you should have to use it. To do this, we use an unbiased algorithm that finds the best products out there by factoring in best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, rave reviews, and more. Ahead, shop the 10 nail strengtheners that made the cut and add one to your routine.

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January 15, 2025

Written By:Sierra Rogers

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: amazon
Rank & Style Approved

amazon

Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Hydrating Nail Hardener

Overall Score

4.25

10

Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Hydrating Nail Hardener

4.56

863 User Reviews

3

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Nail Strengthener Without Formaldehyde

THE FORMULA
Deborah Lippmann's Hard Rock Nail Strengthener has a 21-free formula. That means it's completely free of the usual toxic suspects found in nail polish such as phthalates, formaldehyde resin, and silicones.

WHAT IT DOES
If you've recently had your nails destroyed by a gel manicure gone wrong, this strengthener can help return them to their former state. One reviewer says, "Before discovering this base coat, my nails would just break and be very brittle." 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


DermaNail Nail Conditioner

Overall Score

4.3

09

DermaNail Nail Conditioner

4.32

1365 User Reviews

3.1

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Dry Nails

THE FORMULA
Developed by dermatologists, this nail conditioner is the real deal. Its unique, patented technology binds cells together to create strong and stable nails, encouraging longer growth by controlling splitting, peeling, cracking, chipping, and breakage.

WHAT IT DOES
This is an excellent choice for those struggling with cosmetic nail problems caused by trauma or injury, such as onychomycosis and psoriasis.


Nail-Aid Biotin Ultimate Strength Nail Treatment & Strengthener

Overall Score

4.4

08

Nail-Aid Biotin Ultimate Strength Nail Treatment & Strengthener

4.3

12774 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Soft Nails

THE FORMULA
Vitamin B7, also known as biotin, is the key ingredient behind this strengthener from Nail-Aid. Biotin helps improve the protein infrastructure of keratin (the main component of nails), making them stronger and less prone to splitting or breaking.

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"My nails used to be thin and weak. They would chip and crack often. I could never have long nails that were real. I’ve been using this consistently for a few weeks now and my nails are strong and growing! I just brush it on once a week when I have time and I’m finally getting the nails I’ve always wanted."

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


ISDIN Si-Nails Serum Nail Strengthener

Overall Score

4.4

07

ISDIN Si-Nails Serum Nail Strengthener

4.02

2270 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Peeling Nails

THE FORMULA
The Si-Nails Serum Nail Strengthener promises noticeable results in just 14 days. It was created to boost nail growth and reduce visible damage. Its formula contains hyaluronic acid, which helps keep cuticles moisturized and healthy. 

WHAT IT DOES
If your nails are peeling or splitting, this strengthener will infuse them with the hydration and nutrients needed to help them get their strength back.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Instant Nail Hardener

Overall Score

4.4

06

Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Instant Nail Hardener

4.38

9945 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthening Base Coat

THE FORMULA
This is technically a nail hardener, but it strengthens nails by creating a shield of micro diamonds and titanium. Use it as a base before applying a polish or gel or apply it on its own to put breakage to bed. 

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"I have always struggled with weak nails in the past. My nails would grow a bit, then chip within a matter of days. Now, I have long nails after just one application!"


Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Strengthener Solution

Overall Score

4.5

05

Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Strengthener Solution

4.48

21706 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Nail Strengthener

THE FORMULA
Another option from Sally Hansen, the Hard As Nails Strengthener Solution only slightly differs from the Diamond Strength version. While the latter is used to create a long-lasting shatterproof shield, this version contains film formers that create a protective barrier over your nails. 

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"In terms of value, this a great budget-friendly product that effectively strengthens weak nails and helps prevent chipping. Overall, it's a reliable choice for maintaining nail health at a reasonable price point."


Olive & June Nail Strengthener

Overall Score

4.65

04

Olive & June Nail Strengthener

4.36

4003 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Thick Nails

THE FORMULA
This nail strengthener features a formula packed with naturally derived ingredients. There's celery seed extract, an antioxidant known to improve nail thickness, and rosemary and lavender to provide a dose of nourishing hydration. 

WHAT IT DOES
Pretty bottle aside, shoppers love this nail strengthener for its lasting power. Unlike many formulas, you only need to use this one once a week to see results. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener

Overall Score

4.75

03

OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener

4.45

5690 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Filling Ridges

THE FORMULA
This nail strengthener features a formula packed with naturally derived ingredients. There's celery seed extract, an antioxidant known to improve nail thickness, and rosemary and lavender to provide a dose of nourishing hydration. 

WHAT IT DOES
Pretty bottle aside, shoppers love this nail strengthener for its lasting power. Unlike many formulas, you only need to use this one once a week to see results. 


Essie Hard To Resist Nail Strengthener Treatment

Overall Score

4.75

02

Essie Hard To Resist Nail Strengthener Treatment

4.5

18562 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener For Splitting Nails

THE FORMULA
The Hard To Resist Nail Strengthener Treatment has a 100% vegan formula featuring essie's proprietary nail bonding technology. Swipe on a couple of layers, let it dry, and watch as your brittle, broken nails are restored to their healthiest state. 

WHAT IT DOES
This product creates a protective barrier that helps stop nail splitting. For the best results, use this with essie's Apricot Cuticle Oil.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream

Overall Score

4.85

01

Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream

4.4

72063 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nail Strengthener Overall

THE FORMULA
Meet Amazon's #1 best-selling nail strengthener. The Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream has nearly 50,000 5-star reviews. The best part? You'll recognize most of its ingredients (shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba, beeswax, and vitamins A, C, E, and B5).

WHAT IT DOES
This do-it-all product functions as a moisturizer, nail strengthener, and cuticle conditioner all in one. You've really got no excuse for not adding this streamlined formula to your daily routine. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

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