Practice good nail hygiene. Use a sharp manicure scissors or clippers. Trim your nails straight across, then round the tips in a gentle curve. Use moisturizer. When you use hand lotion, rub the lotion into your fingernails and cuticles, too. Apply a protective layer. Applying a nail hardener might help strengthen nails.

To keep your nails healthy: Keep nails clean and dry. Cut nails straight across. Use sharp nail scissors or clippers. Round the nails slightly at the tips for maximum strength. Keep nails shaped and free of snags by filing with an emery board. Do not bite fingernails or remove the cuticle.