How to Fix Broken Fingernails With Teabags

Broken fingernails can be painful and unsightly. Fortunately, a quick fix is readily available if you're willing to use to commonly-found household items. Find out how a teabag, toothpick, emery board and nail glue can contribute to your fingernail's healthy regrowth.

Instructions

1. Wash your hands with soap and water and allow them to dry.

2. Cut a small 1/2-inch by 1/2-inch piece of the teabag's gauze from the side of the teabag with fine-tipped scissors. You should cut where the tea bag folds so that a double-ply piece can be used on your fingernail.

3. Customize the piece of gauze to fit your nail. Cut an arch or rounded edge over one of its sides so that it naturally fits against your fingernail.

4. Position the gauze directly over your fingernail's tear.

5. Coat the piece of gauze and the immediate area around your fingernail with clear nail polish or nail glue. If using nail glue, use a toothpick to evenly spread the glue over the areas.

6. Reposition the gauze if the brush or toothpick strokes slide it out of place.

7. Allow the polish or glue to dry completely.

8. Trim any pieces of gauze that extend beyond your fingernail's edge.

9. Create a smooth edge by using an emery board's rough side to sand the portion of the gauze next to your fingernail's quick. Use the emery board's fine side to lightly sand the gauze's other edges to blend into your fingernail.

10. Paint your nails with colored nail polish to conceal the gauze under color. This second coat also helps to set the gauze over your broken nail.

11. Wait for your fingernail to grow out or visit a manicurist for professional help.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not put stress on your broken fingernail before it has repaired or grown out. Opening containers or playing instruments with broken fingernails may further damage the fingernail.