My sister swears that if you put Vaseline on your nails it will help them but I have always heard terrible things about using Vaseline on any body parts because of the petroleum base. Any opinions, suggestions?
I can't really comment on the Vaseline from personal experience but I can say that the key to good nails is to care for the cuticle and to provide it with proper nourishment. I personally alternate between a few oils that I apply to my cuticles on a regular basis. I personally prefer jojoba (which is also great on my hair) but in the past I have also used almond oil, sesame oil, monoi, castor oil, vit E. and Apricot pectin oil with good results.
The key is to find an oil mix that you like and use it religiously. I know that some people prefer lighter oils (like sesame) while others like the heavier oils (like coconut). Whatever works.
Vaseline is a petroleum derivative. It is a mineral oil/jelly and does not penetrate the skin/nails, but sits on top of them. It is also reputed to destroy vitamin E in the body but that is something I have read, rather than conclusive scientific fact.
I have dry nails and cuticles and rub shea butter onto them every day.
The results are marvellous. No flaky, brittle or weak nails and cuticles. I recommend it.
I must admit I too thought vaseline was good for nails, although I usually just use a handcream for my hands and fingernails, and my nails looks okay, mostly. But I'm definitely going to try that oil thing!
Aveeno Moisturizing Lotion. It's also the best moisturizing lotion I've ever found. But I also noticed it helped strengthen my nails. It isn't the least bit greasy, as long as you don't use too much.
The jojoba oil is good, too. And it's great for hair.
when i was younger i thought vaseline was good too because it looked so shiny. that was quite a long time ago though. now i rub oil into my nails and it works great. i never wear nail polish on my nails so its wonderful for strengthening and making them shiny. i also used to put vaseline on my lips, etc. for moisturizing but i found out about how it is such a potential irritant.
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