Acrylic false nails can give a fashion-forward woman hard-looking nails with shape, shine and a classy finish. However, they can also provide a cozy place for bacteria and fungi to grow, between the false nail and the natural nail. If you want the strong, polished look of artificial nails but not the risks that come with them, use a nail hardener under your polish and consider taking a supplement that supports healthy nail growth.

Apply a nail hardener to clean, dry nails. Use a nontoxic product that does not contain formaldehyde or toluene. Follow the instructions on the product's label and allow it to dry.

Paint your nails over the hardener. Keep a thin layer of nail polish on your nails to seal the hardener and hold in moisture. A layer of polish also lends a hard and shiny look.

Take a supplement that contains 2.5 mg of biotin. Biotin supports strong, healthy nails. The most reliable way to look like you have hard nails is genuinely to have them.