A problem a few guitar players appear to have is brittleness or thinness of fingernails which frustrates them in their endeavors.
Where these problems are caused by diet they may be mitigated by seeking advice from a nutritionist in order to correct any deficiency.
However, where this doesn't affect a cure, an alternative solution will need to be found.
Without carrying out an exhaustive survey of the means used by guitar players to reinforce their poor fingernails, and their efficacy, here are a few alternatives which will suit different players and styles.
Some players, For a time, apply alternate layers of tissue paper and clear nail varnish until they build a pretty stiff "false nail".
In terms of playing this can be a perfect solution.
In terms of cosmetics and (no doubt) hygiene, it is a disaster.
In fact, if you are a smoker, after a couple of days your nails - or the veneers on top of them - will look fairly disgusting.
Another effect is that the nails are sealed from the environment and get so starved of oxygen that they end up even thinner and more fragile than before.
So, notwithstanding how good they felt and sounded, I wouldn't recommend them.
Many players use fingerpicks - alternating between metal and plastic - either for extended periods, or as a permanent part of their technique.
They are plenty loud and will enable you to play night after night without fear of wear and tear.
But, for others, they will appear to render the music strangely mechanical and expressionless.
They may also find that they have a "speed limit!" There is something about their action that results in many players not being able to play as fast with fingerpicks as without.
There is the option, of course, of taking concerns about fingernails out of the equation entirely, just relying on the flesh of the fingertips.
It is true that if you were to build up sufficient calluses on your fingertips that this might be quite a workable solution - however, on the other hand (no pun intended), you may feel that this technique might be limiting range of expression and dynamics.
False, or acrylic nails, are relatively modern invention and they are becoming increasingly popular.
There are many guitarists who swear by them - for example, John Renbourn.
This is certainly a solution worth investigating.
For my own part, the constituency and durability of my own nails have improved over the years.
Why? Well, I do know that I eat a lot better than I used to, so I'm minded to put it down to a balanced diet.
They still wear if I play hard over an extended period of time and I do worry about breaking one an hour before a gig.
But...
whatyagonnado? My clear recommendation here would be flesh and some nail.
The nails don't have to be long - if they protrude even just a little above the flesh, then you will achieve a robust and natural tone.
If, your nails are just too thin or fragile, then false nails may be your preferred solution - try them.
I will recommend fingerpicks only if you are not concerned to achieve the last nuance of expression and are prepared to sacrifice some potential speed of playing.
As I have said, I do not recommend paper and glue...