Brittle and fragile nails: here are the possible causes and the care to be taken

Do you sometimes feel like your nails don’t want to cooperate? Are they fragile and do they split for no apparent reason? Don’t worry, because you are not alone in this battle. Many of us try to figure out why our nails are so fragile. It can be frustrating but don’t lose hope; there are steps you can take to have healthier and stronger nails. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the common causes of weak or brittle nails, as well as practical tips to make them healthy again. So if your nails have left you feeling hopeless lately, read on!

Why are my nails splitting?

When nails become brittle, dry, or thin, they may begin to split, peel, or break. This can be caused by:

• Too much moisture coming into contact with the nails.
• Prolonged exposure to chemicals such as detergents and cleaning products.
• A lack of moisture in the nails due to dehydration.
• A lack of essential nutrients in the diet.

Other factors can contribute to split nails:

• Medical conditions like anemia or thyroid disorders.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.
• Fungal infections and the age-related effect of natural loss of elasticity over time.

What can I do to keep my nails strong and healthy?

There are several steps you can take to keep your nails strong and healthy.

1. Stay away from harsh products:

Harsh chemicals such as household cleaners, detergents, and solvents can strip nails of their natural oils, making them more susceptible to splitting. Instead, it is recommended to choose mild cleaning products and use gloves when cleaning or doing other strenuous activities. If your nails come into contact with harsh chemicals, be sure to apply moisturizer afterwards to rehydrate them. So your nails will stay healthy and hydrated.

2. Always apply a clear base coat when applying varnish.

Many people don’t realize how important it is to use a base coat when painting their nails. Although it may seem like an extra step, applying a clear base coat provides a protective layer that helps preserve the nail’s natural moisture levels and prevents the polish from becoming brittle. This not only means that your manicure won’t chip after a few days, but it’s also much better for your nail health in the long run. When you apply clear polish before adding your favorite color, you give your nails a shield that helps them stay healthy and strong longer. For luscious, vibrant nails that last, don’t forget to apply a clear base coat first!

3. Use a moisturizing hand lotion every day.

Lotions that contain ingredients such as jojoba oil or shea butter are great for keeping nails moisturized and preventing them from becoming brittle and cracking. Don’t forget to apply lotion on the cuticles and under your nails as well, it helps them stay nourished! Also, try not to use nail polish remover more than once or twice a month; the chemicals it contains can damage both the nail bed and the cuticle. Don’t forget that regular care can help preserve one of our most precious assets: our hands!

4. Consider taking a daily dietary supplement.

Split nails can be a frustrating problem, especially in the warmer months when we use our hands more. Taking a daily supplement containing nutrients such as biotin and calcium can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from splitting. Biotin is known to play a key role in healthy skin and nails, while calcium promotes healthy nail growth. If you have split nail problems, try taking a supplement in a hurry – it might just be the solution you need to get them out of trouble!

5. Avoid too much manicure.

Manicures can be a great way to add glamor and a bit of luxury to your life, but it’s important to keep in mind that too many of them can actually be harmful to your nails. Repeated manicures can weaken the nail plate and make it more likely to split, which is not only unsightly, but also exposes the new layer that forms underneath, which can lead to infections. Also, since the procedure involves drilling the nail or applying chemicals and then polishing its surface, it leads to thinning and discoloration. This means that not only are your nails likely to become more weak and brittle, but they won’t look as good either.

6. Never chew them!!

Biting your nails is not only unsightly, it is also detrimental to the health of your nails. Those who bite their nails are at risk of splitting or fraying at the edges, as this habit can make them brittle and weak. It can even put you at risk of infection when the nail is bitten too close to the skin.