Isla Bennett
Peeling nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including external trauma, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and underlying health conditions. While it is a common issue that can be treated at home, it may also indicate a more serious internal health problem. This article will explore the various causes of nail peeling and provide guidance on how to grow out healthy nails. From dietary changes to at-home treatments, there are several ways to address nail peeling and promote the growth of strong, healthy nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Trauma to the nail, frequent manicures, dehydration, underlying health conditions, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, exposure to chemicals, age, genetics |
| Treatment | Increase iron intake, use cuticle oil, moisturize nails, wear gloves when using chemicals, drink more water, modify diet, take collagen supplements, be patient |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the cause of peeling nails
Peeling nails can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from external trauma to underlying health conditions. Here are some ways to identify the cause of peeling nails:
External Factors:
- Manicure habits: The application and removal of artificial nails, acrylics, or gel manicures can damage the nail plate and cause peeling. Improper removal, such as forcefully scraping or pulling off nail coatings, can scar the nail beds, leading to thin and fragile nails.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the nails, such as rubbing, buffing, or using tools on the nails, can contribute to peeling. Buffing the nails too much or in a back-and-forth motion can thin the nail plate and make them more prone to peeling.
- Moisture: Nails that are repeatedly exposed to water and drying can become brittle and more susceptible to peeling. On the other hand, excessive moisture from soaking in water can also cause the nails to soften and peel.
- Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those in adhesives for artificial nails, nail polishes, hand soap, sanitizers, and laundry detergent, can dry out nails and make them prone to peeling.
Internal Factors:
- Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies: Iron deficiency is a common cause of peeling nails. Other nutritional deficiencies, such as anemia, may also be a factor.
- Underlying health conditions: In rare cases, peeling nails can indicate underlying health issues, such as thyroid disease, lung disease, or kidney disease. Changes in nail growth can also be a result of blood circulation problems and extended exposure to UV rays.
To determine if the cause is internal or external, compare your fingernails and toenails. If both are peeling, it likely indicates an internal cause. If only one is affected, it suggests an external cause.
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Treat any underlying health conditions
While it is rare for peeling nails to be caused by underlying health conditions, it is still important to be aware of these conditions and treat them if necessary.
One of the most common underlying health conditions associated with peeling nails is an iron deficiency. This can usually be treated by eating more iron-rich foods, such as spinach, or taking iron supplements. However, if you suspect that you have a severe iron deficiency, also known as anemia, it is important to speak to your doctor, who can recommend the best treatment.
Another possible cause of peeling nails is an underactive thyroid, which can be treated with a synthetic form of the T4 hormone. In some cases, an underactive thyroid may be a symptom of lung disease, and the treatment will depend on the type of lung disease present.
Peeling nails can also be caused by certain skin conditions, such as eczema, which can cause inflammation around the nail and impact its growth and appearance. To treat this, it is important to keep the skin on your hands hydrated with moisturizer and to attend regular dermatologist appointments.
In rare cases, nail peeling may be a sign of a fungal infection, which can be tricky to treat and usually requires oral antifungal medication.
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Modify your diet
A well-balanced diet is essential for healthy nails. Nails are made of keratin, a protein that relies on several vitamins and minerals to grow strong. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can lead to peeling nails.
Firstly, ensure you are consuming enough iron-rich foods, such as spinach, or consider taking iron supplements. Iron deficiency is a common cause of nail peeling and can lead to anaemia if left untreated.
Secondly, focus on consuming foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins, particularly biotin. These nutrients all contribute to nail health. For example, vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, promoting stronger nails.
Additionally, consider incorporating collagen supplements or collagen-rich foods into your diet. Collagen provides the body with essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of healthy nails. While not all health experts agree on the efficacy of collagen for nail growth, some studies have shown promising results.
Finally, stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can cause a range of symptoms, including peeling nails.
Remember, if you suspect a nutrient deficiency, consult your doctor, who may recommend blood tests and advise you on any necessary dietary changes or supplements.
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Keep nails moisturised
Keeping your nails moisturised is an important step in preventing them from peeling. Nails that are dried out become brittle and are more prone to damage.
There are several ways to keep your nails moisturised and prevent peeling. Firstly, consider your exposure to water and chemicals. Soaking your hands in hot water or prolonged water exposure can dry out your nails. If you are regularly washing your hands or using chemical solvents, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails. After washing your hands, apply a hydrating cream or Vaseline to your hands and nails to prevent dryness.
You can also use natural oils to moisturise your nails and cuticles. Pattie Yankee, a celebrity nail artist, recommends using cuticle oil with jojoba oil as one of the main ingredients. Jojoba oil has small molecules that can easily penetrate the nail plate and moisturise the nail. Almond and safflower oils are also good options, as they moisturise and strengthen nails. Coconut oil is another natural moisturiser that can be used on the skin and nails.
In addition to external moisturisers, you can also support nail health by staying hydrated. Drinking enough water can help prevent dehydration, which is one of the causes of nail peeling.
Finally, consider your diet. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help address nutritional deficiencies that may be causing nail peeling. Iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins like biotin are all important for nail health. If you are unable to get enough of these nutrients through your diet, you may want to consider taking supplements.
Remember, it takes time to see improvements in nail health. Be patient and consistent with your moisturising routine, and you will eventually notice healthier nails.
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Use cuticle oil
Cuticle oil is a specialised product designed to nourish and moisturise the cuticles, which are the thin strips of skin at the base of your nails. It is typically made with a blend of natural oils, such as jojoba, almond, or avocado oil, and may be enriched with vitamins and antioxidants.
Cuticle oil helps to soften and hydrate the cuticles, preventing them from becoming dry, cracked, or damaged. By regularly applying cuticle oil, you can promote healthy nail growth, improve the overall appearance of your nails, and protect them from breaking. It also helps to prevent the formation of painful hangnails by keeping the cuticles moisturised and preventing them from tearing or peeling.
To apply cuticle oil, start by removing any nail polish or residue from your nails using a gentle nail polish remover. Wash your hands with warm water and mild soap to clean your nails and soften the cuticles. Take a drop or two of cuticle oil onto the brush or applicator and apply it to your cuticles and nails. You can also apply cuticle oil right out of the shower while your skin is still damp to encourage deeper absorption.
There are many different brands of cuticle oil available, and you can choose one that best suits your needs and preferences. Some popular options include Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil, Jinsoon Honeysuckle + Primrose Cuticle Oil, and Cuccio Naturale Hydrating Oil. You can also find cuticle oils with different scents and blends, such as Simply Pure from My Bliss Kiss and Cuticle Buddy from Shop NBM. If you're on a budget, pure jojoba oil is a great option, and brands like Cliganic and Leven Rose offer affordable choices.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes time and patience to grow out peeling nails. First, you need to identify the root cause of the peeling. Peeling nails can result from external factors like trauma to the nail, frequent hand-washing, exposure to chemicals, and prolonged water exposure. Internal factors include vitamin and mineral deficiencies, dehydration, and underlying health conditions.
If your fingernails are peeling, but your toenails are not, it's likely due to an external factor. Prolonged exposure to water, harsh chemicals, and frequent hand-washing can strip your nails of their natural oils, leading to dryness and peeling. To prevent this, wear gloves when handling chemicals or doing dishes, and apply a rich moisturizer or nail oil after washing your hands.
If both your fingernails and toenails are peeling, it's likely due to an internal factor. Peeling nails can indicate vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as low calcium, iron, vitamin D, or B vitamin deficiencies. Dehydration and underlying health conditions, like thyroid issues, kidney disease, or skin conditions like eczema, can also be factors. To address internal causes, eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and consider taking supplements after consulting with your doctor. Stay hydrated by drinking enough water, and manage any underlying health conditions with the help of a medical professional.
Here are some general tips to promote the growth of healthy nails:
- Use cuticle oil regularly, massaging it into the base of the nail and the surrounding skin.
- Look for nail care products labelled "hypoallergenic" to avoid harsh chemicals.
- Keep your nails moisturized with coconut oil or other natural oils like jojoba, almond, or safflower oil.
- Be gentle with your nails and avoid picking at your nail polish or pressing on your nails.
- Be patient, as it can take several months to see noticeable improvements in your nail health.
While rare, peeling nails can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition. If your nails are causing severe pain or bleeding, seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if you suspect that your peeling nails may be related to an underlying health condition, such as thyroid issues, kidney disease, or skin conditions, consult a doctor for guidance and appropriate treatment.
