Home remedies can help your nails become stronger and look thicker over time, but they cannot instantly change the actual thickness of the nail plate. They mainly work by moisturizing, protecting, and supporting healthy new nail growth from the matrix (the root under the skin).

Simple oil treatments.

  • Massage warm coconut oil or olive oil into your nails and cuticles for 5–10 minutes once or twice a day; this helps reduce dryness, peeling, and breakage so nails can grow out stronger.
  • You can mix olive oil with a few drops of lemon juice and soak your nails for about 10 minutes to hydrate the nail and brighten surface stains.

Kitchen ingredients you can use.

  • Garlic or garlic-infused oil may support nail health because it contains selenium; some home routines use a little garlic paste on nails for a few minutes before rinsing, but avoid this if your skin is sensitive.
  • Apple cider vinegar soaks (diluted with water) are often used because of their mild antifungal and acidic properties, which can help if weak nails are linked to mild fungal issues, though strong medical evidence is limited.

Diet and lifestyle for thicker nails.

  • Include protein- and biotin-rich foods (eggs, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, leafy greens) plus iron- and zinc-rich foods, because nails are made of keratin and need these nutrients for stronger, thicker growth.
  •  Stay well hydrated and avoid long exposure to water and harsh detergents; use gloves for washing dishes or cleaning and keep nails short while they recover, which reduces splitting and makes them feel sturdier.

Gentle care habits at home.

  • Moisturize hands, nails, and cuticles several times a day with a cream or oil containing vitamin E, jojoba, castor, or almond oil to reduce brittleness.
  • Avoid frequent gel/acrylics, harsh removers, and using nails as tools; protecting them from trauma is just as important as any home remedy if the goal is thicker, healthier nails over the next few months.

If your nails are suddenly very thin, discolored, or painful, it is better to see a doctor or dermatologist, because issues like fungal infection, anemia, or thyroid problems cannot be fixed by home remedies alone.

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