From Brittle to Beautiful: How Emma Finally Grew the Nails She Always Wanted

Struggling with weak, brittle nails that never seem to grow? You're not alone. Follow Emma’s relatable journey from damaged nails to naturally strong, healthy ones — all with the help of simple habits and affordable products. This story-inspired guide shares her exact routine and the tools that made all the difference. Perfect for anyone ready to start their own nail care transformation!.

7/2/20252 min read

Emma had always admired her friends’ long, glossy nails. While theirs seemed to grow effortlessly, hers were a different story — thin, brittle, and constantly breaking. Every time she tried growing them out, they’d split or peel. At some point, she gave up and settled for short nails and chipped polish she barely had time to fix.

But that changed last winter.

One afternoon, while scrolling through her phone during a coffee break, Emma stumbled across a TikTok where someone shared a “nail oil routine.” The girl’s nails looked like something out of a salon ad — shiny, smooth, and naturally long. Intrigued, Emma thought, “What do I have to lose?”

The Turning Point

Emma started small. She ordered a cuticle oil (the Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail and Cuticle Oil, to be exact — available on Amazon for under $10) and began applying it every night while watching Netflix. She also switched out her old base coat for the Eternal Nail Strengthener & Base Coat, a clean, vegan-friendly option that strengthens and smooths nails.

To protect her nails during chores, she began wearing gloves while doing the dishes — something she’d always skipped before.

Within three weeks, Emma noticed a difference. Her nails weren’t just growing — they looked healthier. The peeling stopped. Her cuticles felt softer, and her nails started to show a natural shine she hadn’t seen in years.

Emma’s Simple Nail Growth Tips:

Want stronger, longer nails too? Here’s what worked for her:

  1. Daily Cuticle Oil Massage
    → Hydrated nails are less prone to cracking. Try:
    Sally Hansen Vitamin E Oil on Amazon

  2. A Strengthening Base Coat
    → Protect your nails, especially under polish. Emma now uses:
    Eternal Nail Strengthener & Base/Top Coat on Amazon

  3. Be Gentle
    → Use a glass nail file and always file in one direction.

  4. Wear Gloves for Chores
    → Water weakens nails. A simple pair of rubber gloves goes a long way.

  5. Give Your Nails a Break
    → Let them rest between manicures, especially gel or acrylic ones.

The Best Part?

Now, when Emma reaches for her coffee or types on her laptop, she actually notices her nails — long, strong, and natural. And while she still loves a good polish, she no longer hides behind it.

If you’ve ever struggled like Emma, start small. A drop of oil, a better base coat, and a bit of patience can take you from brittle to beautiful in just a few weeks.

Ready to start your own nail journey?
Tell us — what’s your biggest nail struggle?