Many women battle dry, damaged nails that split, peel or break. Though sometimes weak nails are hereditary, you can take some measures to help your fingernails grow longer, stronger and healthier. Follow these tips to help prevent and repair damaged, brittle nails. Soak nails in olive oil For weak, thin nails, soak them in extra virgin olive oil 10-15 minutes a day for a month, then twice a week thereafter. This inexpensive home beauty treatment will help fortify damaged, weak or peeling nails. Use a cuticle cream A soothing cuticle cream like Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme helps nourish dry cuticles and brittle, damaged nails with vitamin E. Massage the cream into and around your nails nightly before going to bed. Wear gloves for chores When doing the dishes, cleaning and gardening, wear gloves. Detergents and cleansers are harsh on your fingernails, causing drying, spitting and peeling. Soil and gardening can also cause damage to your nails. Find a miracle treatment Sally Hansen Miracle Cure for Severe Problem Nailsworks wonders. It stops nails from peeling almost overnight. Using a mineral rich formula with protein and antioxidants, this treatment helps restore dry, splitting, damaged nails. A clear coat of nail polish may also help protect nails. Eat biotin-rich foods Make sure your diet features foods rich in biotin, such as liver, cooked eggs, whole grains, cauliflower and avocado, among others. In addition to other health benefits, biotin can help strengthen and thicken nails. You can also take a biotin supplement, if necessary. Don't overuse your nails Your fingernails aren't intended to be tools to open soda cans, dial the phone and other tasks. Instead, use a pen or other object rather than your fingernails to do these everyday tasks. Take a multivitamin daily Vitamins are essential for your overall well being and can do wonders for your nails too. Lack of vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium can cause dry, brittle nails. Be sure to take a multivitamin and calcium supplements daily. Also be sure to eat a protein and calcium rich diet. Avoid nail polish remover Don't use nail polish remover more than once or twice a month, if possible. And never use a nail polish remover that contains acetone, which can dry and damage nails. Massage your nails Massaging your fingernails stimulates blood flow to the area, helping them grow longer and stronger. Use a moisturizing lotion and massage hands, cuticles and the nails themselves. Also, get into the habit of applying lotion immediately after washing your hands. Drink lots of water We all know how good water is for your overall health and that goes for your nails too. Drinking water can help hydrate dry, damaged nails, just like it does for hair and skin.