Not only are split nails unattractive, they hurt. A lot. To keep splits from getting worse – and looking unsightly – follow the six simple steps below.

What You’ll Need:

• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Buffer
• Clear nail polish
• Colored nail polish
• Empty tea bag

The How-To:

1. Clip and file your nail to get as close to the split as possible.

2. Empty out a tea bag and cut a small patch that can cover the break in your nail (coffee filters also work for this step). The tea bag will prevent the split from snagging while it grows out.

3. Paint your nail with clear polish. While the polish is still wet, place the clipped tea bag over the split.

4. Let the polish dry, then buff the nail to smooth out any bumps and make sure the tea bag is flat to the nail.

5. To keep the patch intact, place another coat of clear polish over the nail.

6. Paint your nails with your favorite colored polish to hide the tea bag.

By Carolyn Schultz, Staff Writer

Do you have any quick-fix nail tips? Tweet us at @ruelala, then check out our weekly Mani Monday column.

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