How to Remedy Brittle Nails: Causes and Treatment of Splitting Fingernails

How to Remedy Brittle Nails: Causes and Treatment of Splitting Fingernails

Few people want to look down at their hands and see brittle, splitting fingernails. Not only do brittle fingernails look unsightly, they make it a challenge to put on an even coat of nail polish. The good news is this problem can be corrected with a little knowledge and a bit of extra effort. Here’s how to remedy brittle nails.

What Causes Brittle Fingernails?

The main reason fingernails become brittle is due to repeated exposure to water. When hands are exposed to water through activities such as dishwashing, the surface of the nails dry out from the repetitive wet-dry cycle that comes from putting hands in and out of water.
The nail beds also naturally lose moisture with age, so brittle, splitting nails are more common in older people. Some people add to the problem by exposing their hands to harsh cleaning chemicals and nail care products that are overly drying. Fingernails that split can also be caused by low humidity in the air which dries the nails.

What Causes Brittle Fingernails: Could It Be Serious?

In some cases brittle fingernails can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Medical causes of brittle, splitting fingernails include an underactive thyroid gland, diabetes, malnutrition, eczema, and psoriasis. This is why it’s important to get this symptom checked out if it doesn’t respond to treatment.

How to Remedy Brittle Nails: The Nutritional Approach

Some people have brittle, splitting fingernail because they’re lacking good nutrition. It’s a good idea to get blood studies done to make sure there’s not a deficiency of minerals such as iron, zinc, or calcium which can contribute to the problem. A B12 deficiency can also cause vertical nail ridges that make the nails appear brittle.

If these tests are negative, adding more fish oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help the problem since they provide essential fatty acids that nourish moisture deprived nails. Evening primrose oil is another supplement that’s a good source of essential fatty acids for healthier nails. A doctor should be consulted before starting these supplements.

How to Remedy Brittle Nails: Other Tips

Use rubber gloves whenever hands are exposed to water to keep the nails from drying out. Avoid excessive use of nail polish and nail polish removers since they can be harsh on brittle, splitting fingernails. Always apply a layer of moisture lotion to nails after the hands have been exposed to water.

Treating Brittle, Splitting Fingernails: The Bottom Line?

To remedy brittle nails avoid exposure to water and chemicals and apply moisture lotion to the nails liberally. Adding fish oils and other sources of essential fatty acids to the diet may also help. With a little persistence and time, this common condition can be corrected and healthy nails restored.