Brittle Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Proven Solutions
By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Healthy nails play a big part in reflecting overall health. We’ve all had brittle nails at some point so let’s delve into what causes this. We’ll also discuss symptoms to watch out for and tips that may help us in dealing with it. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
The possible reasons for brittle nails are listed and discussed below.
As we age, nails often grow weaker, thinner, and get easier to damage.
Too much exposure to water can leave our nails dry and brittle. If washing hands frequently or soaking them in water is part of your job, precautions need to be taken.
On the other hand, tough cleaning substances could be harming our nails. These include detergents, solvents, and acetone-based nail polish removers.
Certain deficiencies might be causing your nails to become brittle. These are listed below.
An iron deficiency may lead to anemia. This condition affects red blood cells’ oxygen-carrying ability. Iron deficiency anemia can make the nails weak and brittle.
Biotin is a must-have vitamin, not just for hair and skin, but for nails as well. If biotin intake falls short, nails might turn fragile and break easily.
Keratin, a key contributor to nails, is a protein. Falling short of protein intake can lead to weak nails that are more prone to split and crack.
There could be underlying medical conditions that may result in brittle nails. Apart from the nutritional deficiencies mentioned above even fungal infections, hypothyroidism can contribute to brittle nails.
Did you know?
A person’s nails are prone to becoming dry and brittle when performing tasks like recurrent hand washing or doing the dishes. In such cases, the nails are frequently wetted and dried, which might cause the moisture to be removed. Additionally, people are more likely to have dry nails in hot, dry climates or in the winter.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
The common signs of brittle nails are listed below.
Regular peeling or chipping could signal brittleness. It’s good to keep an eye on nail health to avoid more damage.
Brittle nails often grow more slowly.
Brittle nails usually may have rough or uneven surfaces. Always look out for cracks, ridges, or dips in the nail surface.
Changes in nail color can also hint at brittleness. Brittle nails may turn white, yellow, or brown. However, discolored nails could also mean an underlying health issue like a fungal infection.
Brittle nails tend to split, break, or tear more easily.
Here are some routine changes you may incorporate at home if there are no other worrisome signs seen along with brittle nails. Even so, its always best to talk to your doctor before trying these methods.
Nail hardeners forms a protective shield. This reduces breakage risks. Follow directions on the product while using it regularly. This may help in reducing nail splits, cracks, and brakes.
By using hand creams or lotions regularly, one may keep nails from drying.
While filling your nails use a soft emery board. Move the emery in one direction and steer clear of metal instruments that can harm the nails.
Put on gloves to shield your nails. Gloves also protect your nails from cold weather, which is an enemy of nails.
In my opinion, one should consider applying a moisturiser to their hands and nails if one has dry nails. The easiest and most effective way to do this is after bath or right before bed. Applying moisturizer throughout the day, especially after washing hands with soap is highly advisable. Dry nails might become less brittle by adding moisture.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Diet is necessary for maintaining the health of nails; therefore certain dietary changes may help in the case of brittle nails. These are listed below.
Adding more biotin, iron, and protein-rich foods to your meals fights nutrient deficiencies. Include a mix of leafy greens, nuts, lean meat, and fish in your diet.
Staying hydrated throughout the day is also crucial. A diet full of a variety of nutrients goes a long way in keeping nails healthy.
If efforts at home and diet changes haven’t fixed brittle nails, it’s time to get expert advice.
A consultation with a dermatologist or healthcare provider can help identify underlying issues. Sometimes there could be medical conditions that is deteriorating the nails like fungal infections or hypothyroidism etc.
Fungal infections or diagnosed health conditions could be behind brittle nails. Your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-fungal medication to manage the issue. Similarly, if after running some tests, hypothyroidism is confirmed, your doctor will prescribe you medicines to correct the deficiency of thyroid hormone.
It’s important to care for nails on the whole, not just when they’re brittle. Here are some ways to do that.
Regularly checking your nails for any changes is important.
Nail health depends on cleanliness as well. Clean and dry nails mean less risk of bacteria and fungus.
To trim nails, use quality clippers. Cut straight across first, then round the edges gently. This may lower the risk of ingrown nails and splitting.
Biting or picking at nails can harm the nail bed and increase the risk of infections.
Go for gentle nail care products. Pick acetone-free nail polish removers and avoid harsh products.
Brittle nails are common, but knowing when to involve a doctor is important.
If nails remain brittle despite your best efforts, it’s time to get expert help. There might be more to the issue than meets the eye.
If there is discoloration, swelling, or pain around the nails. This could signify an infection that needs medical management.
Certain health conditions can weaken nails. Talk to your healthcare provider when there are other symptoms as well like tiredness or weight changes..
Large cracks in nails or a nail parting away from the nail bed demand urgent attention. Early care may fend off issues like infection.
This comprehensive guide delves into the causes, symptoms, and potential solutions centered around nail brittleness.
Minor lifestyle changes, like moisturizing daily and avoiding harsh chemicals, may keep nails strong. Maintain a balanced diet rich in vital nutrients for healthier nails. It is vital that if all else fails, reach out to a medical professional to help with underlying health conditions.
A lack of iron, biotin, or protein can make nails brittle.
Brittle nails mean they are weak. They can split, crack, or break more easily.
Aging is commonly to blame for brittle nails.
Home remedies, dietary changes, and professional help can mend brittle nails, as discussed in this article.
If self-care doesn’t fix brittle nails, or you spot signs of nail infection, suspect other health issues, or have serious nail damage, reach out to a doctor.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
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