Give weak, peeling nails the chance to grow back stronger.
A two-step nightly routine for nails that are splitting, peeling or thinning after gels, SNS, acrylics, or years of everyday wear. It hydrates the nail plate, locks that hydration in, and supports healthier new growth that looks smoother, stronger and more resilient.
In our own product trials, 95% of people saw a visible improvement in 2 weeks.
Why people love it
It is a completely different approach to nail care, and over 2,300 reviewers will tell you it is the one that finally worked.
95% saw a visible improvement within 2 weeks (our own product trial)
Hydrates and strengthens weak or damaged nails
Improves the appearance of nails, leaving them shinier and smoother
Reduces dryness, cracking and peeling
Supports healthier natural growth
Helps protect against excess water absorption that drives peeling, flaking and splitting
Use this as your nightly routine. It takes a few minutes before bed, and the results build with consistency.
Apply Rest & Repair Serum to clean, bare nails.
Follow with Self Love Oil and massage into nails and cuticles.
Repeat every night for 4 to 6 weeks, or until nails look smooth and uniform.
For the best results, pause nail polish, remover and hand sanitiser while you use the system, and wear gloves for washing up and cleaning to limit water and chemical exposure.
What to expect
Healthy nails take time. Your fingernails grow around 3.5mm a month, so a full nail takes 4 to 6 months to grow out from root to tip (toenails take 12 to 18 months). Any improvement you see is a healthier new nail growing in to replace the damaged nail above it.
Week 1 to 2: Nails and cuticles start to feel more hydrated and flexible.
Week 2 to 4: Less visible peeling and splitting. New growth near the cuticle looks healthier than the older nail above it. Most of our trial users noticed a visible difference in this window.
Week 4 to 6: With daily use, the difference between new and older nail becomes clearer.
Month 2 to 6: Continued improvement as healthy nail grows out and damaged nail is trimmed away.
This is a commitment, not a quick fix. Two weeks will not undo months of damage. If you see no improvement after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent daily use, the cause may be internal rather than surface-level, and we would recommend seeing your GP, dermatologist or podiatrist.
Orders ship from our Melbourne warehouse within 1–2 business days (excluding sale periods) via Australia Post.
AU Standard: $5.00. Estimated 2–8 business days.
AU Express: $10.00. Estimated 1–4 business days.
New Zealand: NZD $8. Estimated 6–9 business days.
New Zealand Priority: NZD $12.50. Estimated 2-4 business days.
USA: USD $8.50, or free on orders USD $85+. Estimated 6–9 business days.
Everywhere else: AUD $16 on all orders. Estimated 6–9 business days.
Returns: You can return eligible full-priced products within 60 days of receiving your order for a refund. Read more here.
Free SHIPPING on orders over $75dispatched in 24 hours60 day returnsOver 22,000+ 5-star reviews
Simple routines to fortify strength, prevent peeling & keep nails looking & feeling healthy.
1Nourished
95%
of people said their nails were nourished
2Regenrated
80%
of people said their nails were regenerated
*Based on a 2 week consumer study of 100 participants.
Tricholoma Matsutake Extract
A natural ingredient rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help promote healthy nail growth, reduce inflammation, and prevent nail damage. It contains polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and amino acids that work together to strengthen the nail bed, increase blood circulation, and promote overall nail health. Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help prevent nail infections and soothe any irritation or inflammation around the nail area.
Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract
Horsetail leaf extract is high in silica which is known to strengthen and reduce brittleness. Rich in essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, it supports nail growth and structural integrity. Horsetail's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties protect nails from damage and infection, while its moisturising effects improve nail and cuticle health. Additionally, it promotes collagen formation and enhances blood circulation, leading to healthier, faster-growing nails.
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment
Radish root is an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help improve nail health by promoting collagen production and fighting free radical damage. It also aids in strengthening nails and preventing breakage.
Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract
Lily extract is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that can nourish and strengthen nails. It can also help to soothe and hydrate dry or damaged cuticles, promoting healthier growth. In addition, lily extract has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, making it useful in preventing and treating nail infections.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Green tea extract is a natural ingredient that is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that can help promote healthy and strong nails. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help protect the nails from infections and fungal growth, while also preventing brittleness and breakage. Additionally, it can help improve the overall appearance and texture of the nails, leaving them looking smooth and shiny.
Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate
Lactobacillus Ferment is a type of probiotic. It helps to strengthen nails and prevent infections by promoting healthy microbial balance on the nail bed. Products containing Lactobacillus Ferment, such as nail treatments and moisturisers, can improve the overall appearance and health of nails.
Calcium Pantothenate
Calcium Pantothenate, also known as Vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in the growth and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails. Its moisturising properties help to improve the strength and durability of nails, preventing dryness and brittleness and aids in preventing nail infections by strengthening the nails' natural defences against harmful bacteria and fungi.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil
A natural ingredient rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that help promote healthy and strong nails. Its moisturising and nourishing properties can help prevent dryness, brittleness, and breakage, while also protecting the nails from environmental stressors. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and heal the cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth.
Glycerin
A popular ingredient in nail care products due to its moisturising properties which helps to hydrate and nourish the nails preventing dryness and cracking, as well as promoting healthy growth.
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment
Saké Extract is a Japanese rice wine containing kojic acid which is known to have skin brightening and anti-aging properties, making it a good ingredient for nail care. It also has antioxidants that help protect the nails from damage and promote healthy growth. Saké's high amino acid content also helps strengthen and moisturise the nails.
Tocopherol
A powerful antioxidant that can help protect nails from free radicals and environmental damage. It also helps to moisturise and strengthen the nails, promoting healthy growth. Vitamin E can also aid in preventing nail splitting and peeling, promoting a smooth and even nail surface.
Self Love Oil: Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Squalane, Caryodendron Orinocense Seed Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Tocopherol. 100% natural. Vegan. Made In Australia.
FAQs
In our own product trials, 95% of users noticed a visible improvement within 2 weeks of consistent daily use. How quickly you see results depends on the severity and cause of your nail damage.
That early improvement comes from smoothing the rough keratin cells on the surface of the nail. The system strengthens the nail layers you still have, but it cannot rebuild layers that have already been lost. Full strength only returns once the damaged nail has grown out completely.
Nails grow slowly. At roughly 3.5mm a month, a fingernail takes 4 to 6 months to grow from root to tip, and toenails take 12 to 18 months.
So you should see early results in the first 2 to 4 weeks. For the best outcome, commit to a routine for at least 4 to 6 weeks before judging it, then keep going through the full growth cycle for best results.
This product is designed to improve the appearance of nails that are dry, dehydrated, peeling, splitting or damaged by external causes. That includes damage from gel, SNS or acrylic removal, frequent handwashing, and exposure to cleaning products, hand sanitiser or acetone. If your nail concerns come from dehydration or external exposure, this system is formulated to help. It is not designed to address nail concerns caused by internal health issues (see below).
A useful general indicator: if your fingernails are peeling but your toenails are fine, the cause is more likely external (dehydration, chemical exposure, salon damage), and this product is designed to help. If both your fingernails and toenails are peeling or brittle, it may point to an internal cause. Common internal causes include iron or biotin deficiency, thyroid concerns, medication side effects, kidney concerns, and skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. In these cases, we recommend seeing your GP or podiatrist.
This product is a topical hydration and nourishment system. It works on the nail you already have, hydrating the nail plate and building a protective barrier to improve the appearance of dry, damaged nails. If your nails are growing in already compromised at the matrix (the root, where new nail cells form), a surface product cannot change that. Internal causes such as nutrient deficiencies, hormonal changes or medication side effects affect the nail at the source. If you have used the product consistently for 4 to 6 weeks with no improvement, we recommend seeing a healthcare professional.
Yes. This product works on both fingernails and toenails. Toenails grow at roughly 1.6mm a month, about half the rate of fingernails, so the full results take longer. Full toenail renewal takes around 12 to 18 months.
For the best results, pause nail polish, remover, hand sanitiser and other drying/solvent-based products. Wear gloves for washing up and cleaning, and avoid picking or peeling at your nails.
Stop using this product and get in touch with us. Occasionally, nails that are already well hydrated do not need extra water. Too much can tip the balance, leaving nails softer and more flexible than usual, which makes them more prone to bending, tearing and peeling. The nail plate needs a balance of water and oil: too little and nails turn dry and brittle, too much and they turn soft and weak. This reaction is uncommon, but catching it early prevents further damage.
Why salon nails cause lasting damage
Gel, SNS, and acrylic manicures bond directly to the nail plate. This bond is strong by design. When it is removed, whether by soaking, filing, or peeling, layers of the natural nail come with it.
The nail plate is only about 0.5mm thick. Each removal cycle takes a fraction of that thickness with it. After several rounds of salon manicures, the remaining nail plate is thinner, weaker, and more vulnerable to splitting and peeling.
The acetone used during removal compounds this further. It strips the natural oils that keep keratin layers bonded together. Without those oils, the layers separate and the peeling begins.
Dehydration is the root cause of most nail damage
Healthy nails contain between 15–18% water. When that drops below 10%, nails become brittle and prone to cracking. Below 5%, the layers of keratin begin to separate entirely.
Water moves in and out of the nail plate constantly. Frequent hand washing, cleaning products, and alcohol-based sanitisers all pull moisture out. Cold, dry environments make it worse. Without a barrier to slow moisture loss, nails stay in a cycle of dehydration and damage.
This is why nail hardeners alone often fail. They strengthen the surface, but do nothing to address the underlying dehydration. The nail feels harder, but the layers underneath continue to separate.
Why most nail products don’t work for damaged nails
Standard nail oils sit on the surface. They feel nourishing, but they cannot penetrate the nail plate because oil molecules are too large to pass through the tightly packed keratin structure.
Water-based serums can penetrate because the nail plate is permeable to water. This is the critical difference. A serum delivers hydration inside the nail. An oil applied afterwards seals the surface and prevents that moisture from escaping.
The two-step approach (serum first, oil second) addresses both the cause (dehydration inside the nail) and the ongoing risk (moisture loss through the surface). Neither step works as well alone.
5 stars: 2044 (86%)
4 stars: 201 (8%)
3 stars: 66 (3%)
2 stars: 35 (1%)
1 star: 39 (2%)
Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.
H
Haydee
5 Star , this product is a miracle.
My nails were in a bad shape after having acrylic glues into my nails . They look pretty but I suffered after taking them off. This product had rescue my nails and now looking so much better again . Highly recommended to All. No regrets.
N
Natasha
My nails are severely damaged from years of biting, neglect, and then all types of nail extensions and decorations. Since using this serum and the cuticle oil, they are visibly healthier and stronger. I’m very happy with this product.
K
Karen
My nails were brittle, dry and always breaking. In the short time I have been using Kester Black I have noticed a huge improvement, my cuticles and nails are looking much healthier. I am very HAPPY.
G
Gaby
It really works
This repair mask for nails really, really works!
I bit my nails my whole life, then used gel nails and eventually Builder in a Bottle nails. Then I was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis which came with terrible nails - pitting, dents, grooves and crumbling ☹️
Using this every night has given me strong, long healthy nails. Unbelievable 🩷
K
Kylie
Restored my faith!!!!
I cannot believe the difference in my nails, I had acrylics for 21 years, recently had them
Removed and purchased your product. They were weak and would split or break. It’s been over a month and my nails look like they never have before, thank you x
V
Valued
Yes, it’s true.
My nails have always been terrible. Split, peeling and full of ridges.
I can definitely see an improvement after using the rescue pack. I’m actually having to trim my nails instead of them just tearing or snapping off. Time will tell if it reduces the ridges. Too many nail bed injuries over my rough and tumble life, so I’m not expecting miracles.
B
Brooke
Soooo Good!
I've been using this product for 6 weeks now after my nails were destroyed by nail tech filing my nails to nothing. They are still recovering from it but can already tell they are stronger. My thumb has always split half way down the nail bed. Since I've been using Kester Black this hasn't happened. Can't wait till the damage is completely grown out and I can have strong nails 💗
M
Marian
Absolutely Amazing!
I went through a phase of getting a gel manicure every three weeks. Then I got one and was really sick of the colour after about a week, so I picked it off! Bad move! I had seriously damaged my natural nails. They looked so bad that I stopped wearing jewellery in case it drew attention to them! I tried a number of store-bought products, but things did not improve. Then my two little bottles of magic arrived. Within days, I could see my nails showing signs of recovery, with the ridges beginning to smooth out and the overall look of my nails improving. The bonus was that the Miracle Oil seriously helped my dry cuticles and the skin around my nails. After 4 weeks, I am happy to show my nails in public again, and it feels so good!! Thank you, Kester Black!
A
Allison
Ultimate Nail Rescue - 5 stars *
Love these products. I’ve never had nice nails but the combo in the Nail Rescue kit has given my nails strength and a length I’ve never had. Would definitely recommend
J
Jayde
Rest & Repair is THE BEST
I had very damaged nails after having shellac and not removing properly. I’m 3 weeks in to using rest and repair and my nails have never been so healthy and strong, I’m not seeing much of a result from the oil unfortunately. However, I can’t recommend rest and repair enough! I thought Kester was just a hype but it’s truly amazing.
L
Lakshmi
Healthier looking nails
I’ve been using this combo every night for the past month on my fingernails. Though the ridges are not completely gone, they have reduced and the nails generally look brighter and feel more moisturised. The cuticles have been better too. They still break after growing to a certain length though.
M
Melinda
Nails seem to be worse after two weeks
Started off with dry ridged cracking and splitting. Now the cracks are more visible. I added this combo to my normal routine. I Will keep trying for another two weeks but so far this combo is no better than just using my normal hand cream by itself. It's also more time-consuming to apply another two products in addition to my usual hand cream.
Hi melinda,
Thank you for taking the time for a review, I am sorry to hear that this isn't helping!
Can I please ask how this is going now?
Also how are you applying this, and are you using your hand cream after this?
We'd love to know more information about this so we can help you get the results you'd like
R
Rowena
Great rescue remedy
I purchased the nail rescue duo after removing my builder gel as my nails were so thin, brittle, dry and constantly splitting. I have been really pleased with the results so far. My nails look so much healthier and now have a smooth appearance minus the ridges and splits. They are now starting to get some length and are much stronger. Ive been using the products for approx 6 weeks now.
R
Rachel
It works
I have been using this consistently for 3 months, and I'm half way through the bottle now. My nails wouldn't grow past my fingertips without breaking or peeling off before, and now they're strong, hard and growing!
S
Samantha
They really work
I was super hesitant that I didn’t need a top coat hardener after taking off my sns which I’ve had continuously for 4 years. This system works really well and I would buy them again and recommend. The wonder mask really hydrate’s and the oil is lovey. Great customer service too, thanks for answering all my emails!
C
Christine
Saved my nails
My nails were so bad, splitting and weak. Purchased Kester Black dual kit and my nails are finally looking normal and starting to grow well again. Still have some way to go but this has been the only thing in months of taking vitamins and other nail products that have actually worked.
L
LAURA
Damaged nails
Love it. My nails so damaged from gel and this has really helped so far with the damage.
B
Brenna
Already Recommended
I finally let go of my 25+ year nail biting habit. But when trying to grow my nails, they were soft and peeling. After just a few weeks of using this, I'm shocked at how long my nails are. Never have I ever had nails this long. Already recommended to friends.
B
Bruna
Great product
The repair mask and cuticle oil really work well. I have been using it every night and I can see a difference in the way my nails look
A
Alice
Nail repair
Have been using this for a couple of weeks now and nails are definitely not as dry/flaky. Still got those nasty ridges though so hoping for an improved there too!
Highly recommend!!
E
Engela
Awesome Couple
These 2 products together make an awesome team. My nails have never looked better.
OUR GUARANTEE
We create products to be loved — every day, and for the long run.
If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, you can return it within 60 days of receiving your order.
