How to Fix a Broken Nail

Broken nails always seem to happen at the worst times. It is not always convenient to go to a salon to repair a broken nail. The good news is that with a steady hand and a few basic supplies, you can fix a broken nail in a matter of minutes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• toothpick
• super glue or nail glue
• tea bag or coffee filter
• scissors
• tweezers (optional)

1. Clean the broken nail with soap and water to remove any oils or dirt. If it was painted, gently remove all of the polish and then wash with soap and water. Dry the nail completely. A clean, dry nail is an essential starting point to repair a broken nail.

2. Cut a piece of the tea bag or coffee filter that is slightly larger than the tear. Set aside. Later you will use this to bond the broken nail back together. If the tear is small, you may want to have tweezers handy to pick up the piece of paper when it is time to glue it because super glue dries very quickly!

3. Open the super glue or nail glue. Squeeze the tube until a dot of glue emerges at the tip and then dip the toothpick into the glue. Use the toothpick to transfer the glue to the broken nail. Apply the glue only to the tear and then carefully set your pre-cut piece of teabag onto the glue, using tweezers if necessary for exact placement.

4. Use the toothpick to smooth out the piece of tea bag so that there are no bumps. Work very quickly before the glue dries. Then wait a few minutes for the glue to dry completely.

5. Once the glue is thoroughly dried, use a buffer to smooth out the glue and help the edges of the tea bag blend in with your nail. Then, put a dark color polish over the entire nail to hide the repair. Use a color to match the rest of your nails so no one will ever notice that you have a broken nail!

6. Repeat this process to repair a broken nail with each manicure until your nail has grown out far enough that you can cut off the broken part and still have a decent length.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have access to super glue or nail glue, clear nail polish can work in a pinch to fix a broken nail but be aware that the repair won't last as long.
• An orange manicure stick can be used in place of the toothpick to help repair a broken nail.
• A little bit of nail polish remover can fix most glue distasters.
• You can also find kits to repair a broken nail in stores or by searching online.
• Super glue and nail glue dry extremely quickly so work fast and avoid contact with your skin.
• Be careful with your broken nail because it will never be as strong as the rest of your nails.

[jpopgirl]

on 4/27/2009 Thanks for these Tips I have one getting ready to tear I will try these Tips

[utopiandream30]

on 2/19/2009 This is great! I was on my way to an interview a few weeks ago, and my was hanging by a thread in the corner (GO FIGURE)! I will definitely use this technique next time! 5* and a recommendation

[LorilynFarms]

on 2/1/2009 I love this tip to repair broken nails!

[MariM]

on 2/1/2009 That is the worst thing ever, A broken nail. This is a great idea usually i just use superglue and eventuall it falls off anyway,thanks for the tip.5*recommend

[kaytay]

on 1/4/2009 I will definitely follow your advice. Thanks.