If you’ve been chewing your cuticles in anticipation of the three gifts you still have to buy, or peeled off your fresh gel manicure in frustration after your mom’s third call to check in on your travel plans, your nails could probably use a little rehab.
Luckily, you don’t need to schedule a last-minute salon appointment (on top of the 50 other things you have to do) — all you need is a good nail strengthener. “Flaky nails are best treated with keratin-boosting products,” explains Kerrie, a nail technician at the UK-based beauty-on-demand service Blow LTD.
To help steer you through the sea of glass bottles in Target’s nail care aisle, we’ve broken down the best protein-rich formulas on the market, ahead. Scroll through to pick your new favorite recovery polish, then take a deep breath before texting your mom back.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream
This viral, $8 Amazon gem has racked up thousands of reviews, and helps fortify your nails against chips, splits, and breakage.
Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream, $, available at Amazon
Tenoverten The Foundation Strengthening Base Coat
A single layer of this clear base coat repairs peeling nails, prevents cracking, and acts as a glue to any polish you sweep on top of it. The best part? Like all Tenoverten polishes, the formula is cruelty-free and free of all the harmful chemicals you wouldn’t touch with a 10-foot pole (like formaldehyde).
Tenoverten The Foundation Strengthening Base Coat, $, available at The Detox Market
Nails Inc. Nailkale Superfood Base Coat
This Nails Inc base coat — infused with keratin, aloe, vitamin E, and, of course, kale extract — is a $15 investment in hard, glossy nails for however long it takes you to drain the bottle. There’s a reason the Sephora landing page has more than 150 glowing reviews.
Nails Inc. Nailkale Superfood Base Coat, $, available at Sephora
CND RESCUERXx
This professional nail treatment from CND uses the power of keratin proteins and moisturizing jojoba oil to magically lift those pesky white speckle bruises from your nails.
CND Rescue RXx, $, available at Ulta Beauty
Chanel La Base Protective And Smoothing
If you’re loyal to Chanel’s signature glossy Le Vernis polish formula, you’ll want to also invest in La Base — a nourishing serum that smooths and safeguards nails with a blend of vitamin E and Argan oil.
Chanel La Base Protective And Smoothing, $, available at Violet Grey
OPI Natural Nail Strengthener
If you want a strength aid that you can pick up at your local CVS, this $10 OPI clear polish will help you grow your nails long and strong in just a few weeks. Simply paint a single layer on clean, dry nails weekly — maybe while you’re watching Dr. Pimple Popper every Thursday night.
OPI Natural Nail Strengthener, $, available at Ulta Beauty
Dior Nail Glow Nail Enhancer
Think of this sheer pink Dior polish like a Lip Glow for your hands. Brush a light coat on bare nails, and watch as pinks go pinker and whites go whiter for a your-nails-but-better effect.
Dior Nail Glow Nail Enhancer, $, available at Nordstrom
Orly Bonder
If you’re looking to give your nails a detox following a long string of gel manicures, this Orly Bonder acts as an invisible first coat of protection; it strengthens brittle nails while extending the lifespan of your at-home manis.
Orly Bonder, $, available at Ulta Beauty
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