ELON FAQ

A: There are many reasons that factor into this common problem. Usually your stress level and your diet are the most common factors as to what causes nail problems.

Suggestion: ELON® Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner

ELON® MATRIX Plus

Q: Why should I not wear nail polish while I am rebuilding my nails?

A: Nails need access to the air and to oxygen. Covering up the nails with any polishes, clear coats and even nail hardeners deprives the nails of air and oxygen. Also, the polishes as well as most polish removers are very drying and harsh to the nail. They can damage the nails even more.

Suggestion: ELON® Professional Nail Care System

Q: When can I start to wear nail polish again?

A: Once you have your nails healthy and strong to the point you are satisfied with their condition you can start to use polish again. However, you still want to make sure that you give your nails some oxygen every so often so that are not always being covered up. So, if you are wearing polish for a week, take it off for a day or two, and stay on this rotation.

Suggestion: ELON® FRE`e Moisturizing Polish Remover

Fungal Infection Questions/Answers:

Q: How does a fungal infection start?

A: Fungal infections thrive on moisture. If a nail has been damaged, an air pocket can form in between the nail and skin. Any small amount of moisture that gets into that pocket can start a fungal infection.

Q: What are some signs of a fungal infection?

A: Two most common signs is 1. The nail is lifting off of the nailbed. 2. There is some discoloration in the nail. Problems with the nails and pain can also be associated with a fungal infection. To be absolutely sure if an infection is present, have a dermatologist take a nail culture.

Q: I've already tried numerous medications and nothing has worked?

A: Anti-fungal medications are not 100% effective. What works for one person may not always work on the next person because each infection is different. Fungal infections are difficult to treat. Medications need to be able to get to the site underneath the nail where the fungus has formed.

Q: What are some steps I can take to prevent a fungal infection?

A: Bring your own implements when having the nails manicured. Make sure that your shoes fit properly and feel comfortable. Always use shoes, sandals or slippers in public places. Do not go barefoot. Try to wear gloves and shoes to protect your nails when putting your hands in water or when involved in active sports. Keep the nails clean and dry as much as possible.

Suggestion: ELON® Dual Defense Anti-Fungal Formula

Order Questions/Answers:

Q: What is my shipping cost?

A: The $3.99 shipping and handling charge is waived on all first-time orders. In the future, you can avoid this fee by ordering 3 ELON Nail Conditioners or items totaling $40.00 or more and get free Standard Shipping. We feel it is a very nice way to say "thank you" for your order.

Q: When will I receive my order?

A: Most orders leave us within 24 hours. They are shipped USPS. You should receive your order within 7-10 business days with Standard shipping and 2-3 business days with Priority Shipping. All orders are shipped from Wareham, MA.

Q: What is your returns policy?

A: Please be aware that because Dartmouth Pharmaceuticals, Inc. provides a toll-free counseling line and provides free shipping on most orders, returns are only accepted in the case of a product which is damaged or the product requires replacing. In these instances, Dartmouth will replace the product. No monetary returns will be provided.

Q: Do you keep my information private?

A: We do not give out or sell any information we obtain from you. We don't like it when companies do that to us, so we would never do that to you!

Product Specific Questions/Answers:

ELON® Barrier Protectant

Q: How long can I keep my hands in water before reapplying?

A: The barrier protectant usually lasts anywhere between two to three hours. This all depends on how often you are in the water after applying the cream.

(click here to go to the ELON® Barrier Protectant product page)

ELON® Complex 38

Q: Will this get rid of ridges?

A: No. This will only reduce the appearance of ridges so that polish can apply on smoothly. Look to the Nail Conditioner to eliminate ridges.

(click here to go to the ELON® Complex 38 product page)

ELON® Dual Defense Anti-Fungal Formula

Q: Will this affect my liver or any other medications I am taking?

A: No. ELON® Dual Defense is a topical solution not an oral.

Q: Can I use nail polish?

A: The formula is an oil, non-drying base that penetrates under the nail where the fungal infections lies. Therefore, because our formula is not applied on top of the nails, like other topical treatments, you can wear any brand or color polish you’d like.

Q: How long do I use?

A: Depending on how long you have had the fungal infection will determine how long you will need to use it. There is no set standard amount of time to treat an infection. It will usually take a minimum 3 months to notice any improvement. Even once the infection appears to be gone you should still continue the use for double the amount of time it took to get rid of. For example if it takes 4 months to get rid of you want to use the product for a total of 8 months to prevent the infection from reoccurring.

Q: Are there any side effects?

A: Unlike oral medications used to treat fungal infections there are no known side effects associated with the Dual Defense unless you have a known allergy to one of the ingredients.

Q: How does a fungal infection start?

A: Fungal infections thrive on moisture. If a nail has been damaged, an air pocket can form in between the nails and skin. Any small amount of moisture that gets into that pocket can start a fungal infection.

Q: What are some signs of a fungal infection?

A: Two most common signs are (1) The nail is lifting off the nail bed and (2) There is some discoloration in the nail. Problems with the nails and pain can also be associated with a fungal infection. To be absolutely sure is an infection is present, have a dermatologist take a nail culture.

Q: I’ve already tried numerous medications and nothing has worked:

A: No anti-fungal medications are 100% effective. What works for one person may no always work on the next person because each infection is different. Fungal infections are difficult to treat. Medications need to be able to get to the site underneath the nail where the fungus has formed…that’s what’s great about ELONâ DUAL DEFENSE; it’s a non-drying oil that penetrates under and around the nail for best penetration.

Q: What steps can I take to prevent a fungal infection?

A: Bring your own implements when having the nails manicured and do not cut your cuticles. Make sure your shoes fit properly and feel comfortable. Always use shies, sandals or slippers in public places. Do not go barefoot. Try to wear gloves and shoes to protect your nails when putting your hands in water or when involved in active sports. Keep the nails clean and dry as much as possible.

(click here to go to the ELON® Dual Defense Anti-Fungal Formula product page)

ELON® Essential Oil with Almond Oil Extract

Q: How often do I apply the Essential Oil?

A: You can apply the Essential Oil as often as you would like. If your cuticles are extremely dry, than apply twice a day. Otherwise, once a day is fine.

(click here to go to the ELON® Essential Oil product page)

ELON® Formula MJ-12

Q: How does this stop splitting, peeling and cracking?

A: Formula MJ-12 is a brush-on polish that is used to hold the nail together to stop splitting, peeling and cracking. Use this as a base coat underneath polish to hold nails together. If you're looking to rebuild the nails, look at the Nail Conditioner.

(click here to go to the ELON® Formula MJ-12 product page)

ELON® FRE`e Moisturizing Polish Remover

Q: How is this different from regular polish remover found in the drug stores?

A: FRE`e Moisturizing Polish Remover contains 0% acetone. This is an incredible breakthrough because it is safe to inhale. It is approved by OSHA as having no harmful chemicals or odors. Due to the fact that there is 0% acetone in FRE`e, this polish remover actually moisturizes the nails and cuticles which leads to less splitting and cracking nails. It also has a refreshing, pleasant scent.

(click here to go to the ELON® FRE`e Moisturizing Polish Remover product page)

ELON® Herbal Foot Cream

Q: How does this compare to the leading prescription foot cream?

A: ELON® Herbal Foot Cream was tested head-to-head against the leading prescription foot cream at NYU Medical. These studies confirmed that ELON® Herbal Foot Cream was proven to be more effective to replenishing and moisturizing extremely dry, cracking feet and heels. Usually after only a few applications patients notice a huge improvement and can start to walk comfortably again. Once the problem has heeled, just use once daily as a maintenance.

(click here to go to the ELON® Herbal Foot Cream product page)

ELON® Hydrating Base Coat with Botanicals

Q: Can this be used alone as a clear coat?

A: Yes. One or two coats will provide a shiny, clear coat to the nails. It can also be used underneath polish to protect the nails.

(click here to go to the ELON® Hydrating Base Coat product page)

ELON® Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner

Q: How often do I use this to rebuild my nails?

A: When you are first starting out to grow out stronger and healthier nails you'll want to use the nail conditioner as close to 4 times a day as possible. The more you use it, the more it will help your nails. Just a small amount goes a long way. Make sure to rub the nail conditioner not only into the nail and cuticle, but also the matrix area (the skin area above the cuticle up to the first joint in your finger). The matrix area is where we can catch the nail before it forms to grow out stronger nails.

Q: How long will it take to stop the splitting and cracking?

A: Nails take about 4-6 months to completely grow out, usually closer to 6 months for most people. It will take the complete 6 months to grow out that weak nail that is splitting and cracking. You will slowly see the splitting and cracking growing out as that new nail grows in for you.

Q: Is the nail conditioner something that I will always continue to use?

A: Yes, if you want to keep your nails strong and healthy. You've spent 6 months rebuilding your nails and you want to maintain them. Just as you use continue to use hand lotion for your hands, you'll continue to use the nail conditioner for the nails. This will ensure that you keep growing out strong and healthy nails.

(click here to go to the ELON® Nail Conditioner product page)

ELON® MATRIX Supplements

Q: How long will it take to restore my nails?

A: When starting a new vitamin regime, it usually takes approximately 6 months to start to see results in your nails. The reason is that nails take 6 months to grow out from tip to end, so it will take 6 months to grow out the weak nails that are currently present. This means that patience and consistency are of the utmost importance. Keep in mind that just like your multi-vitamin; you only receive the nutrients of the vitamin with continued use. Look to add our ELON® Nail Conditioner to your regime to minimize damage and replenish moisture to the existing nails for faster results.

Q: Is the 3,000 mcg level of biotin in ELON® Matrix Plus high enough to help problem nails?

A: Yes. There is 3,000 mcg of biotin in the vitamin specifically to help grow out stronger and healthier nails. 3,000 mcg of biotin is normally what a dermatologist would recommend for a patient with problem nails. We have also added L-Cysteine & Silica to also help with the nails. However, if you are also having problems with thinning hair, we would recommend increasing the level of biotin to 5,000 mcg in our ELON® Matrix 5,000; which would help both the nails and hair.

Q: How long will it take to restore my hair?

A: When starting a new vitamin regime, it usually takes approximately 4 - 6 months to start to see results in your hair condition. Then it will take some time to completely grow out the full length of your hair strands. This means that patience and consistency are of the utmost importance. Keep in mind that just like your multi-vitamin; you only receive the nutrients of the vitamin with continued use. Look to add our ELON® Moisture Therapy Collection to your regime for faster results.

Q: Is 5,000 mcg too much biotin?

A: No. There have been no reported negative side effects with taking large amounts of biotin. Primarily due to the fact that it is a water soluble vitamin; meaning that if you body does not absorb the full amount, then the body just flushes the excess right through your system.

Q: Why should I not only take the ELON® Matrix vitamins, but also the Moisture Therapy products in the Thinning Hair Care System?

A: Realize that the Matrix vitamins are an oral supplement that can only help to grow out healthier, stronger, and fuller hair from the inside out. However, once the hair has grown out, the Moisture Therapy products work topically to help keep the hair healthy, strong, and shiny; they do so because the Moisture Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner contain absolutely no sulfates, but uses sulfate alternatives to cleanse and condition the hair; therefore, being much gentler and less abrasive than other shampoos and conditioners. It also has a low pH level and our unique moisture balance protein complex so that it is not only extra gentle, but incredibly moisturizing to dry, over treated, and over processed hair. All three of these products are available in a packaged set in our ELON® Thinning Hair Care System.

Q: Are there any side effects from the ELON® Matrix?

A: There is nothing that we are aware of; however, because everyone is different, please consult with your doctor if you have any questions. Usually patients are worried about “additives” when asking about the biotin supplements, and we have eliminated the “additives” from our supplements; meaning that our supplements have NO ADDED Lactose, Sugar, Starch, Gluten, Dye, Wheat, Soy, or Artifical Colors.

Q: What is the difference between ELON® Matrix and Biotin found at the health food stores?

A: First, it is normally difficult to find high levels of biotin in health food stores, therefore patients are taking multiple pills instead of just one ELON® Matrix tablet. Second, ELON® Matrix not only includes a high level of biotin, but also 100mg Silica and 50mg L-Cysteine; which are the 3 key building blocks (along with biotin) to grow out strong, healthy nails and hair. Third, ELON® Matrix does not contain any added sugar, gluten, soy, wheat, lactose, or dyes; so it is as gentle as we can possibly make it on the stomach. Lastly, not all biotin is created equal. The pharmaceutical grade of biotin in ELON® Matrix tablets is the full absorbable amount to provide optimum results. Other products may not contain a bioavailability and absorbable form of biotin as ELON® Matrix does.

Q: What is the purpose of the “other ingredients” in the ELON® Matrix vitamins?

A: Even though there are no daily value percentages to the “other ingredients”; these ingredients are very important because they allow for the breakdown and absorbability of biotin and other vitamins in the body.

Q: Can I still take my current multi-vitamin and other supplements I'm already on in addition to the ELON® Matrix Plus or ELON® Matrix 5,000?

A: Yes. If you are not currently taking a multi-vitamin and are looking for these 3 nail & hair enhancers with a multi-vitamin all in one tablet look to our ELON® Matrix Complete or ELON® Matrix 5,000 Complete formulas.

Q: When taking ELON® Matrix Complete or ELON® Matrix 5,000 Complete, do I still want to take my other multi-vitamin that I was taking?

A: No. Matrix Complete and Matrix 5,000 Complete are complete multi-vitamins along with 3 nail enhancers specifically designed for the hair and nails. Matrix Complete or Matrix 5,000 Complete would replace your existing multi-vitamin to give you everything in one tablet.

Q: Are the ELON® MATRIX Supplements safe if I am lactose intolerant?

A: Yes. ELON® MATRIX Supplements are all lactose-free.

Q: Will it help to grow my nails/hair any faster?

A: Yes, in the sense that previously your nails/hair were growing at a damaged rate. If taking the ELON® Matrix Supplements, which will supply you with essential nutrients for the nails and hair, they will then begin to grow at a healthy rate, which will beat a faster rate than previously.

Q: I'm having a problem with both my nails and my hair, which supplement should I be taking?

A: If the problem lies with both areas you'll want to take either the ELON® Matrix 5,000 or ELON® Matrix 5,000 Complete (depending on if you prefer it to include a multi-vitamin or not). The higher level of biotin in the 5,000 formula should supply the body with enough nutrients necessary to help with both the nails and hair. Just remember you'll be working on two different time frames; where it will take up to 4 months to see an improvement with the hair, it will take 6 months with the nails.

(click here to go to the ELON® Matrix Supplements product page)

ELON® Moisture Therapy Hair Care

Q: Are they safe on color-treated hair?

A: Our ultra-mild formula is color-safe as well as color-extending. The sulfate-free formulation in our shampoo and conditioner ensures that moisture and color are not stripped while adding shine and protecting the color and allowing it to last up to 2 months longer. The other topical treatments have minimal sulfates which include Coconut, and are low in pH levels, so that they are ultra mild on the hair.

Q: What hair types provide the best results with these treatments?

A: Dry, damaged, and/or colored treated hair. (Refer to above.)

(click here to go to the ELON® Moisture Therapy product page)

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ELON® Nail Revitalizing Liquid Hand Soap

Q: How does this stregthen nails?

A: Nail Revitalizing Soap contains biotin to reverse the damage that frequent hand washing causes to the nails.Biotin is a component found in healthy nails.

(click here to go to the ELON® Liquid Hand Soap product page)

ELON® Professional Nail Care System

Q: Will this give my nails the same clear coat look as polish?

A: Yes. This system is designed to not only shape and maintain the nails, but also give them a clear coat look without polish so you can still get the full results from the nail conditioner without sacrificing looks.

(click here to go to the ELON® Nail Care System product page)

ELON® Sabre Rapid Dry Top Coat with UV Inhibitors

Q: Can I use this alone as a clear coat?

A: Yes. Sabre Rapid Dry can be used over polish to protect and shine the nails, as well as alone for a clear coat look.

(click here to go to the ELON® Sabre Rapid Dry Top Coat product page)

ELON® Skin Repair System

Q: Will this help with eczema skin problems?

A: Yes. Skin Repair System was designed to handle extremely dry, cracking skin to handle the worst skin problems. Apply the cream as often as necessary.

(click here to go to the ELON® Skin Repair System product page)