The Best Nail Care for Mature Nails to Stay Healthy and Strong
Photo: Huy LuongSave this storySave this story
All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
When it comes to nail care for mature nails, age is just a number, especially if you’re giving your hands and nails the attention they deserve. Just like our skin loses elasticity over time, nails also go through visible changes like thinning, peeling, increased brittleness, and more pronounced ridges. These shifts are often the result of decreased collagen, slower cell turnover, and reduced moisture retention that naturally come with age.
With a few simple steps and the right products, aging nails can look just as healthy, polished, and strong as ever. Hydrating nail conditioners, strengthening treatments, and protective topcoats can go a long way toward maintaining your best nails.
Our Top Nail Care for Mature Nails
- Best Overall: CND Rescue RXx Daily Keratin Treatment, $20
- Best Color Neutralizer: Zoya Nail Polish Lavender Perfector, $12
- Best Nail Polish: Butter London Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer Polish, $18
- Best Nail File: Dr. Dana Glass Nail File, $15
- Best Nail and Hand Moisturizer: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream, $19
- Best Instant Mani: Kiss Gel Fantasy Press-On Nails, $9
- Best Nail Polish Remover: Zoya Remove Plus, $12
Whether you're noticing nail changes, refreshing your nail-care routine, or trying a targeted nail treatment, we’ve got the expert tips and product recs to help you nail it.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
Best Overall: CND Rescue RXx Daily Keratin Treatment
CND
Rescue RXx Daily Keratin Treatment
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Whether you’re dealing with dryness, brittleness, or peeling nails, CND Rescue RXx is a keratin-based treatment that helps restore strength and promote strong nails. “It’s ideal for age-related thinning or peeling,” says Julie Kandalec, a New York City-based manicurist, who recommends applying it daily for one to four weeks, depending on how weak your nails are. The lightweight, oil-based formula absorbs quickly and doubles as a nourishing cuticle oil, thanks to a blend of jojoba and sweet almond oils. It also smells surprisingly delightful: “It reminds me of the mini fruity marshmallows we had as kids in the Midwest,” says Kandalec. If you’re recovering from damaged nails, this convenient, clear formula applies like a top coat, making it effortless to integrate into your daily routine.
Editor’s tip
LargeChevron
Sweet almond oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which helps restore moisture for nails that become drier and more brittle with age.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: sweet almond oil, keratin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Color Neutralizer: Zoya Naked Manicure Lavender Perfector
Zoya
Naked Manicure Lavender Perfector
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Zoya’s Nail Polish Lavender Perfector is perfect for tackling those pesky yellow tones or uneven nails—whether it’s a result of aging, smoking, or wearing dark polish on repeat. It’s like a color corrector for your nails, with a soft lavender tint that evens things out, and a breathable formula that allows oxygen to flow to your nail beds. “It smooths texture, neutralizes discoloration, and strengthens nails,” says Dr. Collins.
Editor's tip
LargeChevron
Use it as a sheer tint alone or layer it under your regular polish.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: nitrocellulose, citric acid, silica
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Nail Polish: Butter London Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer
Butter London
Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer
Amazon
Why we love it: Most nail polishes used to chip or fade faster than you could say, “I just gave myself a mani.” But the nail game changed with the Butter London Patent Shine 10X line. These polishes give you rich, luxe color and salon-level performance without the hassle. A 10-free formula and the brand’s signature polymer keep your mani chip-resistant, long-lasting, and crazy shiny. “For mature nails prone to breakage, it even strengthens your nails with bamboo extract, helps prevent breakage, and keeps them looking healthy while delivering that glossy, long-wearing finish,” says Dr. Collins. And with 61 shades, there’s a color match for everyone.
Editor's tip
LargeChevron
If your nails have natural ridges—normal as we age—thin layers will help avoid streaks and smooth things out for a polished look.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: bamboo extract, diamond powder
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Shades: 61
Best Nail File: Dr. Dana Glass Nail File
Dr. Dana
Glass Nail File
Amazon
Why we love it: “Filing your nails back and forth like you’re sawing wood is a fast track to splitting and breakage,” says Miss Pop. “Instead, file in one direction at a time for a smoother, healthier finish. And make sure your nail file has a grit higher than 200.” For context, nail file grit measures how coarse or fine the surface is—the higher the number, the finer the grit. “Anything below 180 grit is meant for acrylic or fake nails and is way too harsh for natural nails,” she adds. Her go-to: The Dr. Dana Glass Nail File, which creates a smooth, clean edge that helps prevent splits, peeling, and breakage—perfect for anyone with nails prone to damage.
Editor's tip
LargeChevron
Always file your nails dry. “Filing wet or damp nails can lead to splitting, peeling, and uneven edges because they become softer and more flexible when wet,” says Miss Pop.
Best Nail and Hand Moisturizer: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream
Weleda
Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream
Amazon
Dermstore
Why we love it: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream isn’t specifically designed for hands, but it might just be one of the best treatments for dry, aging hands and brittle nails. “This is a super-thick and rich hand cream with a plant-blend formula,” says Kandalec. “I love how it leaves the skin moisturized and dewy. I use it on set when I want the hands to be more luminous on camera.” Packed with sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil, and beeswax, it has lasting hydration and softens rough cuticles. “It’s so effective yet gentle, and I love that I can also use it on my face,” she adds. If you prefer something lighter than a rich cream, Kandalec also recommends Weleda Skin Food Light Nourishing Cream for a more breathable, fast-absorbing option.
Editor's tip
LargeChevron
Beeswax is packed with vitamin A, which supports skin cell turnover and helps improve the texture of your cuticles and hands over time. Pro tip: Keep this tube by the sink as a reminder to moisturize after every wash.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, wool wax, beeswax, rosemary leaf extract
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Instant Mani: Kiss Gel Fantasy Press-On Nails
Kiss
Gel Fantasy Press-On Nails
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Sally Beauty
Why we love it: Mature nails, take a break from the gels. Kiss Gel Fantasy Press-On Nails are a stylish, low-maintenance way to protect and support nail growth while enhancing the look of healthy nails. “As time goes by, nails can get dry and brittle,” says Kandalec, who’s also a Kiss Nails brand ambassador. “Using press-ons is the perfect way to both protect your natural nails from breaking, and give you a stronger covering for daily tasks—and a beautiful, finished look, too.” These press-ons resemble a professional gel manicure, but are gentler on aging nail beds. “They even help improve splitting nails over time as your natural nails grow out underneath,” she adds.
Editor’s tip
LargeChevron
New to press-ons? “Be sure to remove press-ons properly with remover, not by prying them off,” says Kandalec. That can damage the nail plate, especially if your nails are already dry or brittle.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Includes: 28 nails, 2G glue, 1 manicure stick, 1 mini file
Best Nail Polish Remover: Zoya Remove Plus
Zoya
Remove Plus
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Zoya understood the struggle was real: Traditional nail polish removers can be harsh, leaving nails brittle and cuticles dried out. Zoya Remove Plus, an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, is a gentler, kinder alternative that still gets the job done. This three-in-one product doesn’t just remove polish—it also hydrates and conditions your nails and skin while it works. “It evens out texture, neutralizes discoloration, and strengthens nails with a breathable formula,” says Dr. Collins.
Editor's tip
LargeChevron
The bottle's pump format is so convenient—just press with a cotton ball or pad and swipe without making a mess.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: acetone, glycerin
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you take care of your nails as you age?
As nails age, they can become more brittle, dry, and prone to splitting, making care and maintenance even more important. "Aging nails require hydration, strengthening, and protection," says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin. Start by regularly applying cuticle oils and moisturizing hand cream to hydrate your nails and the surrounding skin. Incorporating a nail strengthener into your routine once a week is also crucial for addressing brittleness and promoting resilience. "Weekly use of a nail strengthener can make a big difference in reducing breakage," she says. Also, don’t forget to protect your nails from your lifestyle habits—pop on some gloves when washing the dishes to prevent hands and nails from drying out. "Wearing gloves prevents exposure to harsh chemicals," Dr. Collins confirms. By adopting these simple but effective habits, you can keep your nails strong, hydrated, and looking their best.
How do you get rid of buildup under your nails?
To safely remove buildup under your nails, soak your hands or feet in warm, soapy water for a few minutes to soften the debris. This makes it easier to clean them without irritating the skin around your nails. "Use a soft nail brush and avoid metal tools to reduce the risk of injury or infection," says Dr. Collins. Gently scrub under your nails with the brush, using light, circular motions to remove dirt and residue.
Meet the experts
- Miss Pop, an editorial nail artist based in New York City
- Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
- Julie Kandalec, a manicurist and Kiss Nails brand ambassador based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of best nail care for mature nails, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
11 Neon Nail Looks That Are Less Day-Glo, More Loud Luxury — See Photos
Source Images: @coyarose, @nailsbyxojess, @peachinailsSave this storySave this story
All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
In the very Caribbean New York City neighborhood where I grew up, three colors made up the summer manicures of the early 2000s: white, cotton candy pink, and neon yellow. All the cool girls, moms, and aunties requested these hues, but I had an affinity for the last one. Highlighter yellow—in all its fluorescent glory—was my go-to vacation nail color. It complemented my skin tone and looked even better as I spent more time at the beach.
Jin Soon Choi, manicurist and founder of JINSoon, also recalls the neon explosion of the late ’90s and early aughts. "Neon yellow was everywhere and it felt bold, playful, and a little punk," she says. "I remember creating looks with glow-in-the-dark accents, airbrushed neon art, and graphic decals like stars and hearts."
Ami Vega, a nail artist in Washington Heights in Manhattan, recalls a similar experience to mine, where she had seen people in her predominantly Latin community veer toward neons, especially during the summer months. "I’d see my tia and mom with neon reds and purples, especially on their toes," Vega recalls. "I remember finally being allowed to go into the beauty supply store, and I was drawn to the neon pink and yellow Bruccia nail polishes."
Neon nails are nostalgic, and perhaps that’s why the internet is obsessed with them right now. But today’s take on these vibrant hues is more luxurious than Day-Glo. “They’re more refined and deliberate," Choi says. "On the runway, I've used neon tones in subtle, graphic ways, like a single stripe, dot, or abstract detail over a sheer base."
In Choi's salon, French tips and jelly finishes in highlighter hues are in high demand, having seen a surge in requests as we move deeper into the warmer months. "Has there ever been a time when neon and summer didn't go together?" asks Miss Pop, a New York City-based manicurist. However, I now see neon nails as more than just a summer manicure. They take me back to salon days with my mom. They’re so serotonin-boosting, I’d wear them all year long.
Meet the experts:
LargeChevron
- Jin Soon Choi is a New York City-based manicurist and founder of JINsoon.
- Ami Vega is a New York City-based nail artist.
- Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.
How to choose the perfect neon for your skin tone
You can wear whatever color or combination of polishes your heart desires. If you want to be intentional about how your mani looks against your skin, our pros have a few tips. Shop their product suggestions here.
- For cool skin tones, Choi suggests electric pinks, mint greens, or icy blues. "These shades pop beautifully without overpowering the skin," she says.
- For medium or olive tones, Choi recommends considering warmer colors, such as corals, bright oranges, or highlighter yellows.
- On deep skin tones, Choi encourages lime greens, vivid fuchsias, or purples. "These shades don't just pop on deep skin, they glow and bring out the richness of the complexion in a striking way," she says.
As you peruse your salon’s polish wall, Miss Pop says that holding the bottle against your palm is helpful, as that area is closest to your fingertips. "It gives you a better idea of how the color will look on your nail," she says.
Warning: Neon polish can stain your nails and skin
While neon polish can be extra fun, there’s one thing to keep in mind: staining. "Because the pigments in neon colors are so rich, they can stain your nails or the skin around your fingers," Miss Pop says. She has a few pointers to prevent this: "First, make sure you're applying a base coat to protect your polish and your natural nail." She says think of a base coat like your primer before foundation. Yes, you can put your makeup on without it, but primer will help smooth fine lines and keep your makeup looking its best. The same goes for a base coat.
Being precise during polish removal is also essential to avoid stains. "Instead of roughly swiping your nails with cotton and remover, press the soaked cotton onto your nails for 10 seconds and then gently pull it toward the tip of your nails," Vega says. "Repeat that until all of your polish is removed. And, if some neon pigment still makes its way to the crevices of your fingertips, Vega says you can use an orange stick dipped in acetone to clean up the edges.
Need some neon nail inspo before your next mani appointment? Keep scrolling for looks on all points of the nail art spectrum, from subtle-color French tips and neon aura to bolder abstract designs.
Neon nail inspiration
Abstract neon nails
Courtesy of @peachinailsShimmering neon nails
Courtesy of @coyarose
Courtesy of @coyarose
Courtesy of @mylacqueredlife
Courtesy of @coyarose
Courtesy of @coyaroseChrome neon nails
Courtesy of @dreadfully_dainty_nailsNeon aura nails
Courtesy of @nailsbyxojess
Courtesy of @magicalgirlmanisNeon French tips
Courtesy of @heygreatnailsNeon jelly nails
Courtesy of @coyarose
Courtesy of @coyarose
Courtesy of @kreativelykoatedNeon all over
Courtesy of @kreativelykoated
Courtesy of @kreativelykoated
Courtesy of @jadenailedit
Courtesy of @kreativelykoatedNeon ombré nails
Courtesy of @peachinailsFloral neon nails
Courtesy of @heygreatnails
Courtesy of @heygreatnails
Courtesy of @heygreatnailsNeon flames
Courtesy of @vanityprojects
Courtesy of @beccykate_nailartist3D neon nail art
Courtesy of @vanityprojects
Courtesy of @heygreatnails
Neon nail polishes
Jinsoon
Crush
Jinsoon
China Glaze
Pink Voltage
China Glaze
Nails Inc.
Nails Inc. Neon Nail Polish in Knightrider’s Street
Target
Sally Beauty
Atomic Polish
Atomic Polish Nail Polish in Pastel Neon (Ne) Hot Pink
Amazon
ILNP
ILNP Studio Color Nail Polish in Glowing Neon Lime
Amazon
Plus, a few other essentials
Essie
Gel Couture Metallic Glaze Longwear Top Coat
Ulta Beauty
Zoya
Sparkle Gloss Topcoat
Zoya
Dr. Hauschka
Neem Nail & Cuticle Oil
Dr. Hauschka