Very Weak Fingernails

[gwsdad]

I just started playing the guitar. So far, I have only practiced with a pic. However, I want to learn fingerpicking as well. Unfortunately, I have very weak fingernails. They curl and bend inward. Anyone have any tips/tricks to help grow your nails stronger and longer? I don't want to do fake nails because I am not that die hard. Also, I am too cheap to invest in fingertips. Anyone have any thoughts? Any suppliments or vitamins you recommend? Any thing I can put on the fingernails to strengthen them? :confused:

[FreeFeeling]

the body builds up strength through use. Just like the fretting fingers adapt and toughen with practice so the same should work for the nails, however people are different and may have softer nails than others.

A friend of mine had a similar problem so he used a clear nail varnish,

Hope this helps

[light487]

hrmm well when I fingerpick I don't use my nails or anything.. it's just the style of fingerpicking that I do I suppose so this doesn't really answer your question but have you tried doing it with just the pads of your fingers.. it gives a much more organic sound..

[CSchlegel]

However, I want to learn fingerpicking as well.
What exactly do you want to accomplish with your fingerpicking?

You will definitely need to use your fingernails at least a little if you want to play:

1. Classical - especially pieces using tremolo.
2. If you want to be able to pick every note of a fast run (like in uptempo jazz or bluegrass).

I have seen several people (especially in bluegrass) use banjo thumb & fingertip picks on the guitar. Otherwise, it's simply not necessary. You can count on your fingertips for the vast majority of any other style of playing. :)

Take a look at this tutorial in which I discuss Right Hand Technique for Beginners:
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=359

Notice that my fingernails aren't really that long at all. Some classical players do grow them out longer. But I don't think it is necessary.

Anyone have any tips/tricks to help grow your nails stronger and longer?
Clear nail polish might help. I've used it in rare cases when I have a cracked or chipped nail and need to get through a performance. From this site:
https://www.healthforums.com/library/1,1258,article~11066,00.html

"Be cautious about vitamins and herbs. No specific vitamins or herbs have been scientifically proven to strengthen weak fingernails. However, some people have noted improvement by soaking their fingers in a cooled, double-strength brew of chamomile, peppermint or green tea. A few drops of comfrey oil may add an extra tingle. Consult your doctor before taking a nutritional or herbal supplement to strengthen your nails."

Hope this helps. Let us know how it's going for you!

[gwsdad]

Thanks for the replies. I will definitely watch that tutorial.

[jamesplaysgitar]

i fingerpick tons and my nails are extremely short.

[Superhuman]

My fingernails are all bitten right down to the quick and I only ever use the pad of my finger for hammers/pulls/taps and plucks... don't think they realy have anything to do with playing. Don't think my fingernail has ever touched the fretboard! Re strengthening them, calcium and zinc.

[Thraxion]

I just started playing the guitar. So far, I have only practiced with a pic. However, I want to learn fingerpicking as well. Unfortunately, I have very weak fingernails. They curl and bend inward. Anyone have any tips/tricks to help grow your nails stronger and longer? I don't want to do fake nails because I am not that die hard. Also, I am too cheap to invest in fingertips. Anyone have any thoughts? Any suppliments or vitamins you recommend? Any thing I can put on the fingernails to strengthen them? :confused:

You don't necessarily have to use your fingernails (aka frailing). Alot of guitarists who finger pick tend to just use there finger or if you insist on using nails and can not seem to grow them or w/e you can always buy these

Finger Picks (http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_dandrea_finger_picks_one_dozen?full_sku=110874%2e293%2e162)

They come in a variety of different styles and sizes, they also make different shaped ones for your thumbs, and metal ones which are more perferd by older players.