The Best Nail Strengtheners to Heal Your Dry, Brittle Nails

We updated this article in June 2022 to include additional information about each featured product selected by the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab and expert commentary on the most effective nail strengthener. We removed one out of stock product and a new pick from Zoya.

Weak, brittle, peeling nails are a fact of life: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 20% of people have brittle nails (they are more likely to occur in woman over 60, but anyone can develop the condition). Nails can become brittle and weak and start to chip or peel due to prolonged exposure to water via hand washing, gel nail polish removal or even habits like nail picking and biting. That's where nail strengtheners come in: These products help to fortify cuticles and harden nails, protecting them from peeling and breaking with regular use over time.

To find the best of the best, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab tests hundreds of beauty products, including nail polishes and press-on nails, every year. In a recent GH Beauty Lab, we polled our over 1,300 panelists for their favorite products that help combat brittleness and keep nails looking their best. Ahead, you will find the best nail strengthener and hardeners that really work, including GH Beauty Lab test winners, editor picks and GH tester panelists' go-to formulas:

Our top picks:

For more info on how to find the most effective nail strengthener and more shopping tips, scroll to the bottom of this article, then learn how to get your healthiest nails (including investing in a great cuticle cream and nourishing hand cream!).