I've ridden horses for years, and the tasks involved--grooming, cleaning tack, scrubbing stalls--can be really hard on your nails. A trick known to most horsewomen is to use horse hoof conditioner as a nail strengthener. This can be found online through tack stores or horse care product stores, or at your local tack and feed store or saddlery. Be sure to buy a hoof conditioner preparation (about $8-$15), NOT a hoof polish, stain or finisher. (The latter products actually dry hooves and nails out.)

You want to rub the conditioner liberally into your nails and let it sit for 20 minutes or so (I do this while watching tv) once or twice a week. My nails used to flake and split around the edges and now I never have a problem. I keep them medium length and I never have a problem with them bending back or chipping either.

The best news is that this formula is incredibly economical. Last Christmas I bought little empty containers and distributed portions of the conditioner to all my friends. Of course I have enough left over for my horse and I for a long time to come...

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