Go Au Naturale This Summer With the Natural Nail Trend: How to Grow Healthier Nails in Five Simple Steps

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Kate Middleton
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Bare it all this summer with the season's easiest new nail trend.

Don't get us wrong: There will always be a place in our hearts for crazy-long acrylics, eye-popping patterns and charms and glitter nails galore — but all that glue and UV curing can wreak some serious havoc on your nails.

This summer, we're seeing a transition towards more natural nail looks — think French manis and blueberry milk nails — that are not only better for your nails in the long run, but also help you save money by skipping the salon. With the "quiet luxury" and "old money" aesthetics skyrocketing in popularity, we're not surprised by a shift to more understated manicures this season.

In order to rock the natural nail look, your hands might need a little TLC. A strong base is key to nailing the au naturale look, and there are plenty of products on the market that can restore your thin, stubby fingernails. From hydrating cuticle oil to strengthening polishes, there are so many products on Amazon to help you grow the elegant natural nails of your dreams.

Below, we've outlined a path to achieve healthier, stronger natural nails in five easy steps. 

Step 1: Start With A Clean Base

First, remove any existing polish or acrylic tips. For proper acrylic or gel manicure removal, we recommend visiting your local salon to avoid further damage to your nails.

Cutex Nail Polish Remover

Cutex Nail Polish Remover
Amazon

Cutex Nail Polish Remover

This polish remover is formulated with vitamin E and hydrolyzed silk to keep your skin from drying out.

$3 $2

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ella+mila Soy Nail Polish Remover

ella+mila Soy Nail Polish Remover
Amazon

ella+mila Soy Nail Polish Remover

If you prefer an acetone-free formula, opt for ella+mila's soy-based polish remover.

$11 $10

with coupon

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Step 2: File and Shape

Next, you'll want to use a clipper or file to shorten your nails and remove any breakage. Starting short gives your nails a chance to grow back stronger and healthier.

12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File

12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File
Amazon

12 PCS Professional Reusable 100/180 Grit Double Sides Washable Nail File

The key to any at-home mani is a nail file to smooth and shape your nails. This 12-pack of double-sided files have two grit levels: one for buffing and one for shaping.

MR.GREEN Nail Clipper

MR.GREEN Nail Clipper
Amazon

MR.GREEN Nail Clipper

Made of medical-grade stainless steel, these clippers are ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand.

Step 3: Cuticle Oil

After you've gotten your nails down to your desired shape and size, apply some cuticle oil to rehydrate and encourage growth.​​​

Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Intense Therapy Cuticle Oil

Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Intense Therapy Cuticle Oil
Amazon

Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Intense Therapy Cuticle Oil

A blend of 10 different oils, shea butter and vitamin E makes this cuticle oil extra nourishing.

C CARE Sweet Almond Cuticle Oil

C CARE Sweet Almond Cuticle Oil
Amazon

C CARE Sweet Almond Cuticle Oil

For a more affordable option, we love this best-selling almond oil with a light almond scent.

$13 $8

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Step 4: Apply Nail Strengthener

Then, seal the deal with a coat of nail strengthener for a shiny look and extra fortifying power.

OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener

OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
Amazon

OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener

After filing your nails, apply a coat of Nail Envy to fill in any grooves and bumps while fortifying your nails with a calcium and protein infusion.

essie Strong Start Base Coat

essie Strong Start Base Coat
Amazon

essie Strong Start Base Coat

After filing your nails, apply a base coat to fill in any grooves and bumps while strengthening your nails.

$11 $9

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Step 5: Finish With Vitamin E Lotion

Finally, apply a Vitamin E-infused lotion all over your hands and nails to keep them feeling soft and hydrated. 

Mario Badescu Rose Hand Cream with Vitamin E

Mario Badescu Rose Hand Cream with Vitamin E
Amazon

Mario Badescu Rose Hand Cream with Vitamin E

Your hands will feel silky-smooth and smell incredible thanks to Mario Badescu's rose hand cream.

DERMA-E Vitamin E Fragrance Free Sensitive Skin Shea Hand Repair Cream

DERMA-E Vitamin E Fragrance Free Sensitive Skin Shea Hand Repair Cream
Amazon

DERMA-E Vitamin E Fragrance Free Sensitive Skin Shea Hand Repair Cream

Those with sensitive skin should stick with unscented formulas such as this shea, aloe and chamomile vitamin E lotion.

$8 $7

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