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Gel or polish? When we settle into the nail salon chair, most of us don’t think much beyond the choice between the two—or which trending shade we’ll be wearing for the next few weeks. But a growing shift toward organic nail care is changing that mindset, placing nail health squarely within the wellness conversation.
For many of us, years of gel or acrylic manicures have taken a toll—damage that biotin supplements and strengthening serums alone can’t always undo. (And don’t get me started on cuticles.) To better understand what it actually takes to restore nail health, I spoke with Amy Ling Lin, Founder and CEO of Sundays Studio, a wellness-inspired nail brand with six locations across New York City.
Why Is Nail Health So Important?
Caring for your nails goes far beyond aesthetics. While I love the element of self-expression—and the subtle satisfaction of a seasonal shift from burgundy in the fall to slate gray in the winter—nail health plays a much more functional role. According to Lin, a manicure is often the first line of defense in protecting your nails.
“Nails are protective structures,” she explains. “When nails become brittle, peel, or stay chronically irritated, they’re more vulnerable to splitting, discomfort, and even infection around the nail folds.”
Natural Nails Are In
It’s no surprise that nail health is having a moment. The clean girl aesthetic—think natural nail colors and shorter, pared-back shapes—has influenced more than just polish choices. It’s shifted how people think about nail care altogether. When there’s nothing to hide behind, the condition of your nails becomes part of the look.
“Minimal, your-nails-but-better manicures like ‘clean girl nails’ and ‘no-makeup manicures’ are popular because they celebrate a natural appearance,” Lin explains. “They also make nail conditions more visible, which naturally drives more interest in nail health.”
As skincare and body care have become more intentional over the past few years, Lin sees nail care following the same trajectory.
“We’re seeing the same shift that happened in skincare,” she says. “People are moving from covering their nails to taking care of them. Nail care is becoming about what helps you look healthy—and feel good.”
What Habits Might Be Hurting Your Nails?
In recent years, gel manicures have come under increased scrutiny—and for good reason. The polish itself is one factor, but the UV exposure required to cure it is a bigger concern. It’s essentially a mini tanning bed for your nails, which isn’t ideal for long-term nail or skin health.
Beyond UV exposure, frequent polishing and removal can take a cumulative toll. According to Lin, nearly every step of the gel or acrylic process introduces stress to the nail. “Acrylic wear and filing also contribute to microplastic particles,” she notes. “It’s one of the reasons we’re seeing so many people return to simpler manicures.”
That said, nail damage isn’t limited to gels or acrylics. Some of the most harmful habits are surprisingly common—even among those who stick to regular polish. Lin calls out a few to watch for:
- Peeling or picking off gel: This can lift layers of the nail plate (keratin), leading to thinning, weakness, and long-term damage—especially once the gel has started to lift.
- Biting nails or picking cuticles: Both compromise the nail bed and cuticle barrier, increasing the risk of irritation and infection.
- Aggressive filing: Excessive abrasion—often during gel or acrylic prep and removal—can thin nails over time.
What Swaps Can You Make for a Healthier Manicure?
“Simple is often healthiest,” Lin says. Think shorter lengths, gentle shaping, wearing gloves for chores, and moisturizing consistently. These small choices may seem basic, but over time, they make the biggest difference.
Your nails function much like your skin—they have protective barriers that need care. Just as you’d avoid harsh treatments on your face, it’s worth making smarter, gentler choices for your nails.
If you’re dealing with dryness or brittleness, Lin recommends focusing on barrier support:
- Stop peeling gel and remove it properly. Peeling is one of the fastest ways to thin the nail.
- Prioritize clean tools and good salon hygiene. Healthy nails start with clean practices.
- Support the nail barrier daily. Regular use of cuticle oil and hand cream helps prevent dryness and breakage.
Switching to non-toxic nail polishes and visiting non-toxic salons can also make a meaningful difference. Gentler formulas are less likely to dry out nails or cause discoloration over time—making them a better choice for long-term nail health.
Best Products to Support Nail Health
These are the products worth reaching for when you’re focused on stronger, healthier nails. From nourishing oils to gentle removers and barrier-supporting creams, each one supports a thoughtful manicure routine without unnecessary stress on your nails.
More Nail-Healthy Essentials We Love
Cuticle Oils (Daily Barrier Support)
Hand Creams (Skin + Nail Barrier Care)
Gentle Nail Polishes (For Color Without Compromise)
- Zoya Nail Polish. A non-toxic, long-wear color line free of harsh chemicals, ideal if you’re easing off heavy gels or acrylics.
- Londontown Cafe au Lait Nail Polish. A subtle, wearable neutral that feels polished without overpowering your nails. Londontown’s formula is designed to be less drying and more supportive of overall nail health—perfect for those easing off heavier enhancements.
Nail Strengtheners
- OPI Nail Envy Original. A cult-favorite strengthening treatment that reinforces weak or peeling nails with repeated use.
- Essie Treat Love & Color. A lightly tinted strengthening base that adds subtle color while delivering proteins and nutrients to support resilience.