How to Repair a Split Fingernail

Split fingernails can be unsightly and even painful. The secret to seamlessly repairing a tear is to catch it before the nail completely breaks. The following technique works on both real and artificial nails and will last until the nail grows out — or at least until you are able to make your next manicure appointment.

Things You'll Need

• Nail polish remover
• Buffer
• File
• Fiberglass sheet (made especially for manicures)
• Nail glue
• Nail polish

Instructions

1. Remove all nail polish from the broken nail.

2. File the edge of the split until it feels like it will not snag on anything.

3. Cut a piece of fiberglass into a strip wide enough to cover the split. Do not cover the whole fingernail with fiberglass.

4. Apply nail glue on top of the strip a little at a time. If you did not get the strip in place correctly, or if you make a mistake, use acetone nail polish remover to remove the glue and the strip. Then reapply the strip.

5. Wait for the nail glue to dry. Then buff the top of the fiberglass strip until your nail is smooth and somewhat uniform.

6. Apply a base coat or clear polish to the nail and let it dry completely.

7. Apply a color polish to hide the nail repair.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time you will do a better job.

• Be careful not to glue any thing but the strip.

References

• "The Complete Nail Technician"; Marian Newman; 2004