Sophia Delgado
A split fingernail can be painful and unsightly, and it can take time for the nail to heal and grow back. There are many causes of split fingernails, from injury or trauma to the nail to underlying health conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, iron deficiency, or psoriasis. While some minor nail splits can be treated at home, more severe splits may require medical attention to prevent permanent damage to the nail bed.
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What You'll Learn
Healing time for a split fingernail is 4-6 months
Fingernails are easy to injure and can be damaged in a variety of ways, such as catching them in doors, crushing the nail bed, or receiving a blow to the finger. Split nails can also be caused by nutrient deficiencies, underlying illnesses, or skin conditions like psoriasis.
If you have a split fingernail, it will take about four to six months for the nail to grow back completely. In the meantime, there are several home remedies you can try to fix the issue. For example, you can use adhesives, apply a gel and silk wrap, or cover the nail with petroleum jelly and a bandage. You can also try cutting away the torn part of the nail and filing the rough edges to prevent it from catching.
If the split is severe or affects the nail bed, it is important to see a doctor. They may need to remove the nail and stitch the nail bed. In some cases, they may be able to reattach the nail using stitches or glue. After treating a severe split, it is important to take precautions to prevent further damage to the nail. This includes keeping your nails clean and healthy, moisturising your hands and nails regularly, and avoiding harsh nail products.
To prevent split fingernails, it is important to maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Biotin supplements, a type of B vitamin, can promote healthy nails but should only be taken with a doctor's consent. Additionally, it is important to avoid biting or picking your nails, as this can weaken them and make them more susceptible to splitting.
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Preventing splits: keep nails dry, clean, moisturised and trimmed
Keeping nails dry, clean, moisturised, and trimmed is essential for preventing splits and maintaining overall nail health. Here are some tips to achieve this:
Dry
To prevent nail splits, it is crucial to avoid prolonged exposure of your nails to water. After washing your hands or doing chores that involve water, ensure that you dry your nails thoroughly. If you plan to paint your nails, consider using a hairdryer on a cool setting to speed up the drying process. Alternatively, you can apply a few drops of oil, such as baby oil or olive oil, to each nail, which will help the polish dry faster.
Clean
Nail cleanliness is essential for preventing infections and splits. Regularly trim your nails to keep them short and free from dirt and bacteria. The best time to trim your nails is immediately after a shower when they are softened. Use the correct nail-clipping technique to prevent issues like hangnails and ingrown toenails. Avoid scraping the nail bed and refrain from pulling or ripping hangnails.
Moisturised
Moisturising your nails and cuticles is vital for maintaining nail health and preventing splits. Apply moisturiser after trimming your nails to keep them flexible, especially in dry conditions when nails are more prone to splitting.
Trimmed
Trimming your nails regularly helps prevent nail splits. Short nails are less likely to harbour dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. Proper nail grooming also includes taking care of your cuticles, which are essential for nail health. Instead of removing cuticles, keep them moisturised and use specialised tools for gentle manicures.
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Underlying causes: injury, infection, psoriasis, vitamin deficiency
Split fingernails are often caused by injury or trauma to the nail. For example, stubbing a toe or finger, catching a finger in a door, or crushing the nail tip or bed can result in a split nail. This can also happen when wearing fake nails.
Infections can also cause nails to split. Fungal, bacterial, or yeast infections in the nail bed can change the texture of the nails, making them weak and prone to splitting.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause outbreaks of red, scaly patches. It affects both the skin and nails in about 40-50% of people with the condition. Nails affected by psoriasis may thicken, crumble, or split. Nail psoriasis can be treated with injections of corticosteroids or other medications.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can also cause brittle nails that are prone to splitting. Deficiencies in iron, biotin, calcium, zinc, and vitamin C have all been linked to changes in nail health. For example, iron-deficiency anemia can cause dry, brittle, or spoon-shaped nails. A B vitamin called biotin promotes healthy nails and can be taken as a supplement with a doctor's consent.
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Treatment: home remedies, medical treatment, or prevention
Treatment for a split fingernail depends on the severity of the injury. Most treatments involve home remedies, but in some cases, medical treatment may be required.
Home Remedies
Home remedies for a split fingernail typically involve fixing the nail in place and improving its appearance until the break grows out. One common method involves reattaching the nail with glue. A small amount of adhesive is applied to the detached nail, and gentle pressure is used to push the nail back together. After the glue has dried, the nail can be painted to hide the break. Another home remedy involves using a tea bag, although specific instructions for this method are unclear. If the split is more severe, cover the nail with petroleum jelly and place a bandage on top until it grows back.
Medical Treatment
If the injury is severe, affects the nail bed, causes constant pain, or appears infected, it is recommended to seek medical attention. A doctor can help fix the nail and address any underlying issues.
Prevention
To prevent fingernails from splitting, it is important to keep them clean, healthy, and well-hydrated. This includes performing gentle manicures, avoiding long exposure to water, and using a moisturizer on the nails and cuticles. Nail hardening products can also be used to strengthen the nails. Additionally, it is advisable to wear gloves while doing chores to protect the nails from harsh chemicals and physical injuries. Refrain from biting or picking at the nails, as this can weaken them and lead to splitting. Frequent use of nail polish can also weaken the nails, making them more prone to splitting.
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Signs of a health problem: brittle, cracked, soft,
Fingernails can reveal a lot about a person's health, and nutrient deficiencies may affect their appearance. For instance, vitamin deficiencies and chronic conditions can cause nail issues. However, nail issues often occur due to injury or overexposure to moisture.
Brittle Nails
Brittle nails tend to split, peel, and break easily. They can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as iron deficiency or hypothyroidism. According to Harvard Medical School, 27% of women have brittle nails, also known as onychoschizia.
Cracked Nails
The most common reason for cracked nails is aging. As you get older, your nails become thinner and more prone to cracking. This is most common in women over 60 but can also affect men. Aging-related nail issues can also include peeling and ridges.
Soft Nails
Soft nails can be caused by a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, another nutrient that keeps nails strong and healthy.
Yellow Nails
Yellow nail syndrome is a rare nail disorder that causes yellow nails, respiratory problems, and leg swelling. It can be caused by vitamin E deficiency or other vitamin deficiencies and conditions. Yellow nails can also be caused by fungal infections or psoriasis.
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Frequently asked questions
A split fingernail can look like a vertical or horizontal crack through the fingernail. Nails can also split at the tip.
Split fingernails can be caused by injury, trauma, harsh chemicals, physical trauma, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, or skin conditions like psoriasis.
Most treatment options for split fingernails are home remedies. You can try fixing the nail in place with glue or clear nail lacquer and improving its appearance until the break grows out. If the split is severe, cover the nail with petroleum jelly and place a bandage on top until it grows back.
If part of your split nail separates from the nail bed and falls off, it will take seven to ten days for the nail bed to heal. However, it takes much longer for the nail to grow back, about four to six months for fingernails and a year for toenails.
To prevent your fingernails from splitting, keep your nails clean and healthy. Avoid biting or picking at your nails, and refrain from keeping your hands or feet in water for long periods.
