1. Start getting weekly manicures. If the price for the pros proves too steep, get a professional manicure just once a month, and do your own nails during the three weeks in between.

2. Drink a mixture of orange juice and Knox gelatin once a week to help strengthen nails. For best results, adopt this beauty ritual at least one month before your wedding day or other big event.

3. Use a nail-building base coat under your polish.
4. If you're a nail-biter, coat your nails with polish that tastes so bitter it stops you from nibbling. Use it for at least two months before a major event.

5. Protect your nails from harsh chemicals by wearing rubber gloves when doing dishes and other household chores.

6. Steer clear of dish soap. Soak hands instead in warm water made sudsy with your favorite shampoo.

7. Apply a heavy dose of hand cream at bedtime to prevent dry, cracking skin. Then cover with cotton gloves to enhance efficacy while you doze.

8. Ward off chips and splits by buffing nails nightly with a smoothing block.

9. Top nails off three times a week with a strengthening polish, such as Nailtiques #2.


10. And finally, protect your nails by using the end of a pencil to dial the phone. Put your mom and all your best friends on speed dial!