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I tried the ‘teabag fix’ for a broken nail to see if it actually works

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Photo by Amanda Edwards/WireImage on Getty Images
Photo by Amanda Edwards/WireImage on Getty Images

Chipped, split or broken nails are the worst. It’s a major shame when one nail breaks and you have to cut the rest as well… Or do you? 

The teabag trick

Put away the clippers and try this trick. It’s one that’s been around for a while, so it must work, right? I put it to the test. And it passed.

The low-down: If you break a nail, apply a base coat across the break, then soak up any excess with a small square of dry teabag. It will fuse the nail together. Then apply colour and finish with a strengthening top coat. What I discovered: It works for a day or two, but it’s best to head to your manicurist for a more permanent fix. 

READ MORE: Your gel polish soak off appointment is long overdue - Here's how to easily do it at home  

Want to give it a shot? 

Exhibit A: My broken nail.  

teabag fix for broken nails

What you'll need

  • A teabag - it acts as the glue.
  • A base or top coat - the adhesive.
  • A fine nail file - to smooth the teabag into the nail.
  • A nail polish - to cover and seal.
  • Scissors - to cut teabag – obvs! 

What to do

Step 1: Dry the tears.

Step 2: Cut out a section from the teabag.  

DIY broken nails

Step 3: Apply base coat to ensure the teabag sticks.

Step 4: Place teabag cutout on the nail, covering the crack. 

READ MORE: 6 DIY hair and beauty treatment skills you shouldn't be intimidated to master during lockdown  

Step 5: Trim teabag to fit your nail.

teabag fix for broken nails

Step 6: Smooth out the teabag, then add another teabag layer if required.

Step 7: Wait for your base coat to dry.

Step 8: Buff off the excess teabag and file the edges down.

Step 9: Paint the nail as you normally would. (Two to three coats is best.)

Step 10: Wait some more… Done.  

This article was originally published on Women's Health SA

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