Caleb Foster
Brittle nails are a common condition, affecting about one in five people. They are characterised by nails that are dry, thin, soft, and prone to splitting, peeling, and breaking easily. While brittle nails usually do not require medical attention, they can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. In this article, we will explore the various causes of brittle nails and provide tips on how to treat and prevent this condition. We will also discuss when it is necessary to seek medical advice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Dehydration, aging, nutritional deficiencies, underlying conditions, and damage from household cleaning products |
| Symptoms | Nails that split, peel, break, crack, or become thin and soft |
| Treatment | Applying lotions with alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin, wearing gloves while washing dishes, and avoiding chemicals around the nails |
| Prevention | Keeping nails short, moisturizing hands and nails regularly, wearing gloves in cold and dry weather, and eating a balanced diet |
| Medical Concerns | Hypothyroidism, iron deficiency, anemia, fungal infections, thyroid disorders, psoriasis, eczema, Raynaud's disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer treatment, and medication side effects |
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What You'll Learn
- Brittle nails are often caused by aging and hormonal changes
- Nutritional deficiencies, such as low biotin, zinc, and iron, can cause brittle nails
- Protect nails from harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to water or fluctuating between wet and dry environments
- Medical conditions like thyroid issues, anemia, and fungal infections can cause brittle nails
- Consistent nail care, including moisturising and avoiding nail biting, can help strengthen nails
Brittle nails are often caused by aging and hormonal changes
Additionally, the constant washing and sanitizing that comes with aging can cause nails to dry out and become more brittle. The use of detergents, household cleaners, and nail cosmetics can also strip moisture from nails, making them more susceptible to breakage.
Underlying medical conditions can also play a role in nail brittleness. For example, hypothyroidism, or low thyroid levels, can cause brittle nails, along with symptoms such as hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and depression. Raynaud's syndrome, which is characterized by circulation problems in the extremities, can also affect nail health and lead to brittle nails.
While aging and hormonal changes are beyond individual control, there are ways to reduce the risk of brittle nails and maintain nail health. Moisturizing the hands and nails regularly, especially after washing or showering, can help prevent nails from drying out. Wearing gloves during household chores can protect nails from harsh chemicals and excessive water exposure. Keeping nails short can also minimize the surface area exposed to potential damaging agents. Additionally, incorporating nail-friendly nutrients into your diet, such as zinc from seafood and vitamin C from fresh fruit, can promote nail growth and strength.
While brittle nails can be a cosmetic concern, they may also indicate underlying health conditions or nutrient deficiencies. If you are concerned about your nail health, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
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Nutritional deficiencies, such as low biotin, zinc, and iron, can cause brittle nails
Nutritional deficiencies can be a significant cause of brittle nails. The human body requires a variety of nutrients in certain optimum proportions to maintain nail health. A deficiency in any one of these nutrients can lead to noticeable changes in the nail plate, such as brittleness.
One of the most well-known nutritional deficiencies that can cause brittle nails is an iron deficiency. Iron is an essential mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body, and a lack of it can lead to low red blood cell levels, resulting in brittle nails. In addition to iron, other mineral deficiencies, such as a lack of zinc, can also contribute to nail brittleness.
Moreover, vitamin deficiencies can also play a role in nail health. For example, a deficiency in biotin, a water-soluble vitamin, has been linked to brittle nail syndrome. Supplementation with high doses of biotin has been shown to improve nail health, with beneficial effects usually observed after 2 to 3 months of supplementation.
Additionally, a deficiency in vitamin B has also been implicated in nail health. While supplementation with a multivitamin that includes vitamin B is recommended, there is limited evidence to support the use of vitamin supplementation to improve nail health in well-nourished individuals.
It is important to note that nail health is a reflection of overall health and nutritional status. While nutritional deficiencies can cause brittle nails, other factors such as aging, repeated exposure to water and chemicals, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to nail brittleness. Therefore, addressing any nutritional deficiencies and maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for promoting healthy and strong nails.
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Protect nails from harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to water or fluctuating between wet and dry environments
Brittle nails are often caused by repeated washing and drying, overexposure to detergents, household cleaners, and nail polish remover, or simply by aging. Nails are sensitive and can absorb water, which contributes to the weakening of the bonds in your nails over time. Chlorinated water can also strip your nails of their natural oils, leading to dehydration and making them more prone to weakening, peeling, and breakage.
To protect your nails from harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to water, consider the following:
Wear gloves
When doing household chores, wear gloves, such as dishwashing gloves, to keep your hands dry and protect your nails from harsh chemicals found in detergents and cleaning fluids. If you work in a nail salon, always wear disposable gloves when handling and transferring products. Nitrile gloves protect against many chemicals used in nail salon products, while latex or vinyl gloves are suitable for handling acetone.
Keep nails short
Keep your nails short to minimize the nail surface area where water and chemicals can be absorbed.
Choose the right nail polish
Some nail polishes contain fewer chemicals, which may be a good option for sensitive skin. "Five-free" nail polishes do not contain formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. If you are wearing gel nails, be aware that they can also absorb water and may get discolored with frequent exposure to chlorine.
Moisturize
Use a hand cream containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or lanolin to restore moisture to your nails after exposure to water or chemicals. You can also apply cuticle oil formulated with essential oils and antioxidants to protect and boost hydration.
Improve ventilation
If you work in a nail salon, ensure proper ventilation to lower the level of chemicals in the air. Open doors and windows, and keep the exhaust system on during work hours.
Take breaks from polish
Consider taking intermittent breaks from nail polish to give your nails a chance to recover. Keep your nails and cuticles well-moisturized between manicures.
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Medical conditions like thyroid issues, anemia, and fungal infections can cause brittle nails
Brittle nails can be a symptom of several medical conditions, including thyroid issues, anemia, and fungal infections.
Thyroid Issues
Thyroid disease can cause various skin, hair, and nail changes. These changes may include coarse, dull, dry, and brittle hair that breaks easily; thinning hair or balding patches; a dry, itchy scalp; and thick, dry, and brittle nails with visible ridges, among other symptoms. A swollen fingertip, curved nail, and thickening skin above the nail are often signs of thyroid disease. If left untreated, thyroid disease can lead to a dangerously slow or fast heartbeat, injuries that refuse to heal, or unrelenting pain. Therefore, it is important to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition caused by a lack of red blood cells, resulting in insufficient oxygen circulation in the body. Iron deficiency anemia is a form of anemia that occurs when the body does not have enough iron, leading to low red blood cell levels. Anemia can cause nail irregularities, such as pale nail beds and spoon-shaped nails. Spoon nails (koilonychia) are characterized by a sunken center, giving a spoon-like appearance, and they can also be thin and brittle. Treating anemia can help resolve these nail symptoms.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, known as mycotic nails, can affect the toenails or fingernails. They are caused by fungal organisms that enter through small cracks in the keratin or nearby skin. Symptoms of a mycotic nail infection include thick, fragile nails that may separate from the nail bed and exhibit discoloration, such as brownish, whitish, or blackish hues. Yeast onychomycosis, a type of fungal infection caused by Candida, is more likely to affect the fingernails and may indicate a weakened immune system. Fungal infections are contagious and can be passed from person to person, so it is important to take preventative measures and consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
While medical conditions can cause brittle nails, it is important to note that nail brittleness can also result from external factors, such as repeated washing and drying of the fingernails, overexposure to detergents and nail polish remover, and age-related changes. Maintaining nail health through proper hydration, moisturizing, and protection from harsh chemicals can help reduce the risk of brittle nails.
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Consistent nail care, including moisturising and avoiding nail biting, can help strengthen nails
Brittle nails are often caused by repeated washing and drying, overexposure to detergents, or an iron or thyroid deficiency. Thankfully, consistent nail care can help strengthen your nails and restore their health.
Firstly, it is important to address any nail-biting habits. Nail biting can damage your nails and the surrounding skin, and it may be a sign of underlying obsessive-compulsive behaviour. To stop biting your nails, pay attention to the triggers that cause you to bite them and try to replace the behaviour with something else, like chewing gum or playing with a fidget toy. Keep your nails trimmed and filed to reduce hangnails and ragged edges that may tempt you to bite. If you cannot break the habit on your own, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can help address the psychological aspects of nail biting.
Secondly, moisturise your nails and hands regularly. Look for moisturising hand lotions that contain lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids, and rub the lotion around and directly onto your nails. Moisturise your hands and nails before bed to keep them hydrated as you sleep, and after washing your hands to prevent dryness.
Thirdly, take steps to protect your nails from further damage. Wear gloves when doing household chores to keep your hands dry and shield them from harsh chemicals. Keep your nails short to minimise the nail surface area where water and chemicals can be absorbed. Avoid nail polishes and treatments that contain harsh chemicals, such as acetone nail polish remover, which can weaken and damage nails. Instead, opt for non-toxic nail polishes and soaks, and acetone-free polish remover.
Finally, consider incorporating collagen peptides and protein-rich foods into your diet, as these have been proven to improve nail and skin health. Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day and consuming a nutrient-dense diet. If you have tried multiple remedies and have not noticed any improvement in your nails, consult a dermatologist or another skincare professional for advice. They may be able to prescribe a prescription-strength nail treatment or address any underlying conditions that could be causing your brittle nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Brittle nails are nails that tend to split, peel, and break easily. They can be dry and brittle or soft and brittle.
Brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, and damage from household cleaning products.
There are several ways to treat brittle nails, including moisturizing hands and nails regularly, wearing gloves while doing household chores, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding nail biting and picking. You can also try applying lotions or creams that contain lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids.
In some cases, brittle nails can be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as hypothyroidism, iron deficiency, or anemia. However, it is important to note that nail issues usually do not indicate a serious underlying illness. If you are concerned, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional.
