Best nail conditioners: current ranking supported by expert opinion (January 2024)
Weakened and brittle nails after illness, biting, hybrid or gels. How do you regenerate and nourish them?
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.Nail conditioners offer different forms of application and interesting compositions with multifunctional properties. In order to choose a good product, you need knowledge and... good glasses, because the small letters on conditioner packaging are often difficult to decipher!
We can help you make your choice. Cosmetologist Katarzyna Srebr has helped us compile a list of the best nail conditioners. They will work well in regenerating a weakened plate after hybrids and gels, after mechanical damage or when you have just stopped biting your nails. Read on and choose a conditioner for yourself!
From this article you will learn:
- What are the best nail conditioners
- What to look out for when buying nail conditioner
- How to care for your nails and hand skin on a daily basis
See also:
- Best vitamins for nails
- Hand cream
- Face moisturiser
- Vitamin C face serum
- Nourishing body lotions
- Anti-wrinkle cream
- Eye cream
- Hand cream
- Face cream
- Best hair toner
- Best hair conditioners
How to choose the best nail conditioner? Key criteria
Cosmetologist Katarzyna Srebr suggests paying attention to the following criteria:
- the presence of natural substances in the composition,
- absence of harmful substances,
- user reviews,
- price per ml,
- price per ml.
- function (primer base form, stand-alone conditioner, oil).
These are the factors that guided us in compiling this list.
Best nail conditioner
The best nail conditioner is Biotebal Strong Nails 6.6 ml. The conditioner contains the Hydro-StrongTM formula, which restores moisture to the nail plate, rebuilds it and prevents it from splitting. The effectiveness of the activity is confirmed by a study with women who used the serum for 3 weeks.
Ranking TOP 7 conditioners
Below is a detailed analysis of popular nail conditioners from cosmetologist Catherine Srebr, all of which are nutrient bombs, free from formaldehyde and other harmful substances.
Product description
This specialised nail serum, thanks to its unique combination of ingredientsós, penetrates the deep layers of the nails, maintaining their optimal level of hydration. The Hydro-StrongTM formula is based on the use of hydroxypropylchitosan, an ingredient that adheres tightly to keratin, the mainónate builder. The serum forms an invisible protective layer, which protects the nail plate from moisture loss and from the harmful effects of external factors.
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Pros and cons
This specialised nail serum, thanks to its unique combination of ingredientsós, penetrates the deep layers of the nails, maintaining their optimal level of hydration. The Hydro-StrongTM formula is based on the use of hydroxypropylchitosan, an ingredient that adheres tightly to keratin, the mainónate builder. The serum forms an invisible protective layer, which protects the nail plate from moisture loss and from the harmful effects of external factors.
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Additional information
This specialised nail serum, thanks to its unique combination of ingredientsós, penetrates the deep layers of the nails, maintaining their optimal level of hydration. The Hydro-StrongTM formula is based on the use of hydroxypropylchitosan, an ingredient that adheres tightly to keratin, the mainónate builder. The serum forms an invisible protective layer, which protects the nail plate from moisture loss and from the harmful effects of external factors.
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User review
This specialised nail serum, thanks to its unique combination of ingredientsós, penetrates the deep layers of the nails, maintaining their optimal level of hydration. The Hydro-StrongTM formula is based on the use of hydroxypropylchitosan, an ingredient that adheres tightly to keratin, the mainónate builder. The serum forms an invisible protective layer, which protects the nail plate from moisture loss and from the harmful effects of external factors.
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Pirolam Nail Conditioner with Ceramides
- Purpose: brittle and fragile nails
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- Major ingredients: ceramides
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- Packaging: 11ml
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- Number of shades: 1
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Product description
Conditioner in the form of a varnish, designed for people with brittle and fragile nails. Thanks to the ceramidesós content it fills the defects in the nail plate, improves their strength and elasticity. It protects against discolouration from dark shades of lacquerós and prolongs their durability.
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Thanks to the conditioner, your nails will not break or split and you can finally grow them. The formula is easy to apply and dries quickly on the nails. It has a delicate and transparent shade of ró¿.
Pros and cons
Conditioner in the form of a varnish, designed for people with brittle and fragile nails. Thanks to the ceramidesós content it fills the defects in the nail plate, improves their strength and elasticity. It protects against discolouration from dark shades of lacquerós and prolongs their durability.
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Thanks to the conditioner, your nails will not break or split and you can finally grow them. The formula is easy to apply and dries quickly on the nails. It has a delicate and transparent shade of ró¿.
Additional information
Conditioner in the form of a varnish, designed for people with brittle and fragile nails. Thanks to the ceramidesós content it fills the defects in the nail plate, improves their strength and elasticity. It protects against discolouration from dark shades of lacquerós and prolongs their durability.
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Thanks to the conditioner, your nails will not break or split and you can finally grow them. The formula is easy to apply and dries quickly on the nails. It has a delicate and transparent shade of ró¿.
User review
Conditioner in the form of a varnish, designed for people with brittle and fragile nails. Thanks to the ceramidesós content it fills the defects in the nail plate, improves their strength and elasticity. It protects against discolouration from dark shades of lacquerós and prolongs their durability.
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Thanks to the conditioner, your nails will not break or split and you can finally grow them. The formula is easy to apply and dries quickly on the nails. It has a delicate and transparent shade of ró¿.
Eveline Nail Therapy 8 in 1
- Valuable ingredients: citric acid, vitamins C and E, linoleic acid, safflower seed oil, soybean oil, argan oil
- Packaging: 5 ml
Product description
Eveline is back in salons with a rich composition of extracts and oils to regenerate and strengthen weakened nails.
Expert opinion
The nail conditioner from Eveline is a formaldehyde-free formula (whichóry been an ingredient in other conditioners in this range), very rich in natural extracts. This new and safe conditioner is great for periodically or permanently weakened nails. The downside of the product is the presence of camphor in the formulation – allergy sufferers and people with high skin sensitivityóry should beware of it.
Katarzyna SrebrCosmetologist
Regenerum do paznokci i skórek
- Cenne składniki: witamina A, witamina E, olej makadamia, olej z pestek winogron, olej ze słodkich migdałów, olej cytrynowy
- Opakowanie: 5 ml
Product description
A serum that strengthens the nails and the skin around them. It nourishes, regenerates, lightens discolouration and prevents 'burrs'.
Expert opinion
The product comes in the form of a convenient-to-apply serum, whichós applied to the nails and nail shafts.The formulation contains natural oils and vitamins, whichóinfluence the regenerative processes in the nail matrix and protect against external damage. Lemon oil helps to lighten discolouration, which is particularly important for people who are prone to discolouration of the nail plate, e.g. due to work or genetic traits. It is also the best rescue for damaged plates after hybridisation.
Katarzyna SrebrCosmetologist
Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Instant Nail Hardener
- Valuable ingredients: diamond powder, silicone polymer (derived from silica)
- Packaging: 13.3 ml
Product description
Prevents fraying, breaking and peeling of nails. Ideal conditioner for post-hybrid and gel nails.
Expert opinion
Diamond powder improves the thickness and hardness of the nail plate. I recommend this conditioner to clients with naturally thin and brittle nails. It is also a good option for people who have given up hybrid or gel and whose nails are mechanically (from files and cutters) or chemically (acetone) damaged.
Katarzyna SrebrCosmetologist
Long 4 Nails
- Valuable ingredient: extract from the resin of the Pistacia lentiscus tree
- Intended use: for weak, brittle, and splitting nails
- Packaging: 10ml
Description
A transparent, nourishing nail polish that regenerates, strengthens, and stimulates nail growth.
Apply the treatment to your nails, wait until it dries, then apply a second layer. Repeat the procedure every two days. Regular application will provide maximum strengthening of the nail plate. It can also be used as a base coat under nail polish.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Stimulates keratin synthesis (thanks to Pistacia lentiscus)
- Fills in gaps and unevenness
- Thicker and stronger nails, better protected against damage
- Innovative Re-Light system prevents discoloration and brightens the nail plate
- Healthier-looking nails and natural shine
Cons:
- None
Bielenda Total Pro Care
Description
Professional care at home - the conditioner regenerates, promotes growth and accelerates the drying of nail varnish.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Rebuilds damaged nails
- Moisturizes and regenerates
- Strengthens the nail plate, hardens, and improves its condition
- Contains valuable ingredients
Cons:
- None
Nourish your nails from within.
Check out your choice of cosmetologist in the article: Best vitamins for nails. Expert opinion + ranking of 20+ products.
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 5000 mg, mango-maracuja
- Collagen content: 5000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
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- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (and L-theanine and coenzyme Q10 in cocoa flavoured collagen or vitamin A and vitamin E in mango–passion fruit flavoured collagen)
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- Form: powder sachets
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- Dose: 1 sachet per day
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- Sufficient for: 30 days
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Product description
Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.
Take care of your tendons, joint cartilage, ligaments, muscles and even bones by supplying them with the building blocks to function properly. Move without bólu and provide the necessary support for any physical activity.
And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.
Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.
Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
These are the best collagens in the world.
These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoóenjoy the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.
Pros and cons
Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.
Take care of your tendons, joint cartilage, ligaments, muscles and even bones by supplying them with the building blocks to function properly. Move without bólu and provide the necessary support for any physical activity.
And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.
Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.
Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
These are the best collagens in the world.
These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoóenjoy the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.
Additional information
Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.
Take care of your tendons, joint cartilage, ligaments, muscles and even bones by supplying them with the building blocks to function properly. Move without bólu and provide the necessary support for any physical activity.
And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.
Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.
Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
These are the best collagens in the world.
These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoóenjoy the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.
User review
Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.
Take care of your tendons, joint cartilage, ligaments, muscles and even bones by supplying them with the building blocks to function properly. Move without bólu and provide the necessary support for any physical activity.
And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.
Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.
Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
These are the best collagens in the world.
These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoóenjoy the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.
Glow Stories
- Active ingredients: bamboo shoot extract, Quatrefolic®, L-Methionine, L-cysteine, vitamin E, vitamin A, niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B6, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), biotin, zinc, copper .
- Form: capsules .
- Dose: 1 capsule per day .
- Sufficient for: 60 days .
Product description
A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.
In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.
Pros and cons
A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.
In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.
Additional information
A dietary supplement containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts thatósupport the skinóhand, hair and nails. The product is especially distinguished by the form of folate – it is Quatrefolic, whichós absorbed very well and is natural.
In addition to valuable vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, E, B3, B2 and biotin, the formula contains bamboo shoot extract, whichóry further enhances your beauty.
Vitamins C and E are common ingredients in nail conditioners. Find out how they affect your body in the articles:
Dangerous substances in nail conditioners. What to look out for?
Unfortunately, there are nail polishes and conditioners on the market that contain harmful substances. At the suggestion of your cosmetologist, avoid products that contain:
- Formaldehyde. This is a strong germicide, used for example for disinfection. When used in nail products, it can cause onycholysis. The vapours given off during the application process can irritate the respiratory tract and mucous membranes of the eyes, cause allergies and even dizziness and malaise.
- Toluene (methylbenzene). This allergenic substance most often acts as a solvent in nail varnishes and conditioners. It causes irritation, can penetrate the circulatory and nervous systems, affect fertility, cause lung, kidney, liver and eye diseases. With prolonged contact with the body, the substance will unfortunately not remain inert to the immune system either.
- Formaldehyde resin. This is a strong preservative that causes allergies, dryness of the nail shafts, onycholysis, itching and burning. It can contribute to discolouration of the nail plate and worsen brittleness and fragility of the nails.
Important!
Onycholysis is a condition in which the nail plate detaches from the nail bedand. Common causes include, for example, hybrid manicures, skin diseases, autoimmune diseases, anaemia, wearing tight shoes .
See our other rankings made with experts:
How to strengthen weakened nails? Expert advice
Nail conditioners are a good complement to other measures important for improving the condition and appearance of nails. I asked the experts how else to improve the condition of your nails.
Blood tests
Nails that are brittle, fragile, dry and splitting should prompt us to have blood tests. The body is signalling that it is not functioning properly. Hormones should be tested and deficiencies of vitamins and minerals should be checked.
Tests that are worth performing are:
- morphology (preferably dilated),
- concentration of thyroid hormones (TSH, FT-3, FT-4),
- concentrations of vitamin B12, iron, ferritin, zinc and transferrin.
We can perform the tests privately or on the National Health Service. Your GP can give you a referral for a blood count, TSH, FT-3, FT-4, and an endocrinology specialist for vitamin B12, zinc, iron, ferritin and transferrin.
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Vitold Tomaszewskidoctor of medical sciences
Important!
Diseases associated with endocrine disorders (e.g. hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's) can manifest with poor condition of nails (brittleness, splitting, slowed growth), skin (dry, including at the nails) and hair (loss, brittleness)and.
Do you notice such symptoms in yourself? Make an appointment for a consultation or blood test.
You may be interested in:
Home remedies for strong nails
Make a spa at home today - it's easy and fun! Some ideas to inspire you:
- Warm oil bath. Simply heat up your favourite oil (e.g. argan, linseed, olive oil, sunflower) and soak your nails in it. The longer, the better. This treatment, repeated every few days, makes the nails more flexible, hardens and gives them a shine.
- Lemon juice rubbing. Citric acid has brightening properties, so this is a good way to treat nail plate discolouration. After using this method, the nails and the cuticle around them lighten and become brighter.
- Coconut oil rubbing. This oil can be used as a cream-mask for hands, nails and cuticles. It is best to leave a thicker layer on the hands and feet overnight. In the morning, the skin will be soft and supple, the nail shafts will be perfectly moisturised and the nails will be shiny and healthy.
Diet for strong nails
A nutritious and varied diet is essential to nourish nails, skin and hair. What does a clinical nutritionist advise?
The nail plate is made up of, among other things, keratin, water, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, sodium, selenium, sulphur and copperand. A deficiency of these nutrients can affect the condition and hardness of the nail plate. Adequate hydration (approximately 30 ml per kilogram of body weight) , a correct supply of protein in the diet, and the consumption of a variety of products are also extremely important.
One of the most important vitamins with proven nail plate strengthening properties is biotin (vitamin B7)and. It is naturally found in egg yolks, salmon, liver, sunflower seeds, almonds, yams. It is worth including these foods in your dietand.
Alexandra Cudna Clinical nutritionist
See also:
- Collagen for skin
- Collagen for wrinkles
- Most powerful collagen
- Collagen deficiency
- Collagen for stretch marks
- Collagen for acne
- Collagen for cellulite
Summary
- There are different forms of this cosmetic product to choose from - conditioners, oils, bases or products that care for the skin around the nails at the same time.
- The best nail conditioners are formulated without harmful substances.
- Avoid products with formaldehyde, toulene and formaldehyde resin.
- To strengthen your nails, in addition to using conditioners, it is important to have a varied diet and nail treatments that you can even do at home.
- Weakened, splitting and brittle nails are a signal to get your hormone levels and nutrient deficiencies tested.
FAQ
Which nail conditioner is the best?
.The best nail conditioner is Regenerum for nails and cuticles. The serum coats the nails and the skin around them. The ingredients in Regenerum contain natural oils and vitamins to hydrate, regenerate and protect the skin and nails.
What's the best for nail restoration?
.The best way to rebuild nails is through a holistic approach that includes including foods rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats (including omega and omega-3) and drinking plenty of water. It is worth supporting with supplementation and using nail conditioners with a moisturising effect on the nail plate.
What is the best post-hybrid nail conditioner?
.The best post-hybrid nail conditioner is Regenerum for nails and cuticles. The nourishing and regenerating composition will deal with damage to the plate and take care of the skin around it. The conditioner dries quickly and leaves an elegant shine on the plate.
.Is Regenerum for nails effective?
.Yes, Regenerum for nails is effective and this is confirmed by many users who have rebuilt and strengthened their nails thanks to the conditioner. The Regenerum serum effectively moisturises the nail plate and acts as a protective shield against external damage. It is easy to apply and dries very quickly.
.Does nail conditioner wash off?
.When using nail conditioner, some products need to be washed off before re-application and some can be layered. Read the leaflet before use and choose the most convenient method for you. Remember to remove conditioner with acetone-free nail polish remover to avoid drying out the nail plate.
.What kind of conditioner for damaged nails?
.For damaged nails, a conditioner or serum with moisturising, encapsulating and conditioning properties will work well. The cosmetic should contain vitamins, minerals and precious oils for nails, which will rebuild the structure of the plate and protect it from external damage.
Are hybrids safe for health?
.When applying a hybrid, a lamp is used that emits UVA light, which is harmful to the skin, accelerates photo-ageing and increases the risk of cancer. Short-term exposure to UVA should not be hazardous to your health, but it is best to avoid this radiation.
Do hybrids damage the nail plate?
.Yes, improperly applied and removed hybrids can damage the nail plate. To avoid damage, the plate and peri-nail shafts must be worked on with care and the hybrid applied. Then, skilfully, without much interference with the nail plate, remove it.
Are nail conditioners harmful?
.Yes, nail conditioners can be harmful if they contain formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin or toulene in their formulation. These ingredients can cause onycholysis (detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed), dryness of the nail plate and peri-nail shafts, and worsening of nail brittleness and fragility.
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Sources
.See all
.Lause, M., Kamboj, A., & Fernandez Faith, E. (2017). Dermatologic manifestations of endocrine disorders. Translational Pediatrics, 6(4), 300-312. https://doi.org/10.21037/tp.2017.09.08
Saleem, F., & Soos, M. P. (2022). Biotin Deficiency. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547751/
Singal, A., & Arora, R. (2015). Nail as a window of systemic diseases. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 6(2), 67-74. https://doi.org/10.4103/2229-5178.153002
Structure of the nails. (2018). In InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513133/
Taylor-Thompson, K., Budde-Lang, J., & Carpenter, J. (2021). Common and Best Nail Practices Among Nail Care Providers: A Descriptive Study. Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing: Official Publication of The Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society, 48(5), 447-452. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000804
Zaias, N., Escovar, S. x., & Zaiac, M. n. (2015). Finger and toenail onycholysis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 29(5), 848-853. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.12862
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Editorials
Meet the teamCosmetologist
Cosmetologist and linergist with extensive experience working with clients with a wide range of skin health needs and concerns.
Editor
Graduate of Journalism and Artes Liberales at the University of Warsaw. Since 2017, he has been working with the biggest portals in Poland and abroad as an editor. Previously worked for 3 years in one of the leading pharmaceutical companies - he knows the health and beauty industry inside out. In his free time, he most enjoys playing tennis or skiing.
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