Not Nail Polish, Not Cuticle Oil—This Product Has Rescued My Damaged Nails

      I appear to have the most fragile nails possible. Honestly, I can’t grow my nails no matter what, and despite taking a lengthy break from acrylic and gel manicures and trying every nail strengthener available, they still keep breaking. I often find myself searching "how to strengthen nails" online. To make matters worse, my nails are extremely dry as well. So, when I accidentally discovered a nail barrier serum, I decided to give one last product a chance to see if it could help. After using it for two weeks, I noticed a significant improvement. Similar to your skin barrier, taking care of your nail barrier leads to healthier and stronger nails. However, I must admit that even as a beauty editor, I wasn’t aware that the nail barrier existed until I found this lesser-known serum. Now, I’m sharing it with everyone because incorporating it into my routine has truly made a difference. The product I’m referring to? The Mylee Barrier Boost Nail Serum.

      **Mylee Barrier Boost Nail Serum**

      *Pros:* Easy application, lightweight and non-sticky formula, nourishes dry nails and cuticles, strengthens nails

      *Cons:* Not the most pleasant scent, needs consistent use to see results

      It may seem counterintuitive, but this clever serum hydrates and enhances the flexibility of nails. You might wonder if it’s desirable for nails to be more flexible. The reality is that dry, hard nails are more likely to snap, so having flexible nails can actually allow them to grow longer. The formula includes a probiotic ferment, a marine bioactive extract, and a bioactive tropical nectar to nourish the nails and improve their natural barrier.

      While the hydrating aspect of the formula is definitely crucial, what struck me most during my testing was how easy it was to integrate into my daily beauty routine. I've previously tried nail strengtheners, but as someone who dislikes painting her own nails, I never managed to stick with it. I’ve also experimented with cuticle oils and hand creams occasionally, but found them somewhat messy (and greasy). The best part about this serum is that all it takes is applying one drop to each nail, massaging it in, and allowing it to absorb overnight. I keep the bottle by my bedside and apply it right before bed, as it absorbs quickly and isn’t sticky. After two consistent weeks of use, I’m amazed by how much healthier my nails appear.

      As you can see, my nails are now smooth, hydrated, and significantly stronger. Naturally, taking a break from gel manicures, keeping my nails a bit shorter with a good nail file, and using gloves for chores have also contributed to my overall nail health, but nothing has made them as smooth as this serum. Plus, I appreciate that it hydrates both my nails and cuticles simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple products. If you’re also working on improving your nails this year, I highly recommend adding this product to your routine. At £15, it’s a valuable investment in your long-term nail health.

      *Shop the Mylee Barrier Boost Nail Serum*

      **Shop More Nail Health Essentials**

      **Manucurist Stronger Nails Duo**

      This set from the stylish nail brand Manucurist features an overnight nail mask and a nourishing nail pen for both nails and cuticles.

      **OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Treatment Serum**

      **Margaret Dabbs Crystal Nail File**

      If you’re taking a break from salon visits, I strongly suggest investing in a high-quality nail file for at-home use.

      **La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Soothing Hand Cream**

      A nourishing, non-greasy hand cream is always the final step in my nail care routine.

      **Why Trust Us**

      At Who What Wear UK, we believe that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Our editors have evaluated thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair care, and nails over the years and collaborate closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, makeup artists, and industry leaders—to ensure each guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you. We prioritize formulas that deliver results, whether they are budget-friendly favorites or luxury investments. Our product selections are based on genuine results, ingredient expertise, and what we would truly recommend to a friend.