Are you addicted to manicures? Are you afraid that without the help of your local nail salon, your hands are doomed? Going to the nail salon is a beauty bonus, but should not be cause for panic in case you can't get an appointment. There is no reason why your nails should look bad at all, if you're properly caring for them.

According to Tamara Lior, a Florida-based dermatologist, healthy nails reflect a healthy body. So if you find that your nails have been looking on the dull-side lately and take forever to grow, that's a sign that you may be suffering from vitamin deficiency. This list of the best vitamins for nails will help you pinpoint what is missing from your diet and will bring you one step closer to more beautiful nails and a healthier you.

1) Iron: Brittle nails can be a sign of an iron deficiency. Look for chelated iron supplements or consume more nuts, lean red meat and green, leafy vegetables. These all contain essential vitamins for nails.

2) Zinc: Increased white spots on your nails, along with poor growth and inflammation of the cuticles are also signs you need to add more zinc to your diet. If you don't want to take a zinc supplement, some foods that are high in zinc include dark chocolate, peanuts and turkey.

3) B-12: Excessively dry and darkened nails could mean you're not getting enough of the good vitamins for nails; in this case, Vitamin B12. This comes in both a capsule form or it can be found in cheese, eggs and crab.

By getting a sufficient intake of the best vitamins for nails, your nails and skin will greatly improve. Also make sure to drink plenty of water and moisturize your hands regularly for maximum nail growth. Now that you know what vitamins are good for nails and can establish a good regimen, you won't find yourself panicking the next time your manicurist is booked. Who knows, maybe you'll even be tempted to try going "au naturale" with your shiny and healthy nails.