Isla Bennett
Fingernails can reveal a lot about a person's health, and cracks or splits in the nails can be a sign of underlying health issues. Nails are made of layers of keratin, which can separate when cracked, causing the nail to split or peel. While nail cracks can heal as your nails grow, there are ways to prevent and treat nail cracks and splits.
How to save fingernails from splitting and cracking
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Physical trauma, nutrient deficiency, wear and tear, injury, harsh chemicals, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, aging, moisture, nail polish, nail polish remover, underlying health conditions |
| Prevention | Wear gloves while washing dishes or doing chores, avoid harsh chemicals, maintain a healthy diet, take biotin supplements, moisturize nails and cuticles, use nail glue, trim nails, file rough edges, soak in saline water, cover with petroleum jelly and bandage |
| Treatment | See a doctor or healthcare professional, remove the nail, apply stitches or glue, take antifungal pills |
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What You'll Learn
Keep nails hydrated, but avoid overexposure to moisture
Keeping your nails hydrated is essential for maintaining their health. However, overexposure to moisture can have adverse effects. Nails that are exposed to excessive moisture can become weak, brittle, and prone to splitting. This can occur when doing dishes, washing hands frequently, or through repeated nail polish use. To prevent this, it is recommended to wear gloves when your hands are exposed to water for extended periods. Cotton-lined rubber gloves are ideal for protecting your nails from water while still allowing your skin to breathe.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the products you use on your nails. Nail polish and nail polish removers often contain harsh chemicals and solvents that can dehydrate and weaken your nails, making them more susceptible to splitting. Opt for nail polishes that are free from harsh chemicals such as toluene and formaldehyde. When using nail polish remover, choose a gentle, hydrating formula, and always follow with a nourishing hand lotion to replenish moisture.
If you spend a lot of time with your hands in water, consider using a moisturising hand lotion or cream that contains lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acid. These ingredients help to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on your skin and nails, reducing the risk of moisture loss and nail splitting. Apply the lotion generously to your hands and nails after each time your hands are exposed to water, and before bed to ensure your nails stay hydrated throughout the night.
Another way to keep your nails hydrated is to use natural oils such as mineral oil or vitamin E oil. These oils help to condition and strengthen your nails, preventing them from becoming brittle and prone to splitting. Simply massage a few drops of oil into your nails and cuticles each night before bed, and if desired, during the day as well. This will help to create a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and adding an extra layer of defence against external moisture.
While keeping your nails hydrated is crucial, it is equally important to avoid overexposure to moisture. This delicate balance will help ensure your nails remain strong, healthy, and resilient.
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Avoid harsh nail products and chemicals
Avoiding harsh nail products and chemicals is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy nails. Nails are susceptible to the effects of harsh chemicals, which can lead to dehydration, cracking, and splitting. It is important to be mindful of the products you use on your nails and opt for gentler alternatives.
Nail polish and nail polish removers are often packed with harsh solvents and chemicals, such as acetone, which can strip your nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry and brittle. To prevent this, limit the use of nail polish and opt for natural, non-toxic, and chemical-free nail polishes when possible. When removing nail polish, choose acetone-free nail polish removers, which are less drying and gentler on your nails.
Additionally, avoid nail products that contain toluene and formaldehyde, two particularly harsh chemicals. These chemicals can cause significant damage to your nails and are best avoided. Instead, opt for natural nail treatments and cuticle oils that nourish and protect your nails.
If you regularly use cleaning supplies, it is essential to wear gloves. Many cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to your nail health. By wearing gloves, you create a protective barrier, shielding your nails from these chemicals and reducing their impact.
Harsh chemicals are not limited to external products; certain medical conditions can also affect your nail health. For example, anemia, a condition caused by iron deficiency, can lead to pale or spoon-shaped nails and increase the likelihood of cracking and splitting. If you suspect anemia or any other underlying health condition, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment and guidance.
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Take vitamin B supplements, but only with a doctor's consent
If you're experiencing splitting and cracking in your nails, it may be a sign of a vitamin B deficiency. Vitamin B, also known as biotin, is an essential nutrient that promotes nail health. However, before taking any supplements, it's important to consult your doctor to get their consent and ensure it's appropriate for you.
Vitamin B deficiencies can lead to brittle nails that are prone to splitting and cracking. This is because vitamin B is necessary for maintaining strong and healthy nails. By taking a vitamin B supplement, you can help heal your nails and reduce the occurrence of splitting and cracking.
It's important to note that vitamin B deficiencies are rare and there are several other potential causes of nail splitting. For example, nail splits can be caused by physical trauma, such as catching your finger in a door or pinching it under a heavy object. Exposure to water, harsh chemicals, and certain nail products can also weaken nails, making them more susceptible to splitting. Additionally, underlying medical conditions, such as nail fungus or psoriasis, can contribute to nail splitting.
If you're experiencing severe or persistent nail splitting, it's recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. They can help identify any underlying causes and provide appropriate treatment options. In some cases, this may involve treating an underlying health condition or addressing nutrient deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements.
By taking vitamin B supplements with a doctor's consent and addressing any other underlying factors, you can help promote nail health and reduce the occurrence of nail splitting and cracking.
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Protect nails with gloves when doing chores or exposing them to water
Protecting your nails from water exposure is crucial for preventing nail splitting and cracking. Water can weaken your nails, making them more prone to breaking, bending, and splitting. This is especially true if you frequently wash dishes, as the combination of water and cleaning products can be particularly damaging.
To safeguard your nails when doing chores or exposing them to water, it is advisable to wear gloves. Cotton-lined rubber gloves are ideal for household chores, especially when washing dishes or cleaning, as they provide a protective barrier against water and chemicals found in cleaning products. By wearing gloves, you can reduce the amount of time your nails are directly exposed to water, helping to keep them strong and healthy.
Disposable nitrile gloves are highly recommended for nail salon services. These gloves protect your hands from the harmful chemicals present in nail polishes, removers, glues, and other products. They also guard against bloodborne diseases and infections, which is crucial when working in close contact with clients. Additionally, these gloves help prevent skin irritation and protect your own manicured nails from damage.
If you are performing a manicure at home, it is essential to wear gloves when handling nail products to avoid direct contact with your skin. This is particularly important if you are using harsh chemicals or products containing toluene and formaldehyde, which can be damaging to the nails. Always wash your hands before and after working with these products, and be sure to discard and replace gloves if any tears or holes are found.
In summary, protecting your nails from water and chemical exposure is key to preventing nail splitting and cracking. By wearing gloves during chores and when handling water, as well as during nail services or at-home manicures, you can effectively reduce the risk of nail damage and promote the health and strength of your nails.
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Keep nails clean, trimmed, and filed
Keeping your nails clean, trimmed, and filed is essential for maintaining their health and preventing them from splitting and cracking. Here are some detailed tips to help you achieve this:
Keep Nails Clean
Nail hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and maintain nail health. Wash your hands regularly, especially after activities that expose your hands to dirt or harsh chemicals. Avoid excessive exposure to water, as this can weaken your nails, making them more prone to splitting. If you frequently perform tasks that involve water, such as washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves to protect your nails. Additionally, be mindful of the products you use on your nails. Avoid nail polishes and removers that contain harsh chemicals like toluene and formaldehyde, as these can dehydrate and weaken your nails over time.
Keep Nails Trimmed
Trimming your nails regularly helps prevent them from catching on things and reduces the risk of physical trauma, which is a common cause of nail splitting. Use sharp nail clippers or scissors to cut your nails straight across, avoiding any jagged edges that could lead to further splitting. If you have a nail that is already split, trim it just below the split, and then use a nail file to smooth out the edges and shape the nail.
Keep Nails Filed
Filing your nails is an important step in maintaining their shape and smoothness. It helps prevent snags and uneven edges that can lead to further cracks. Use a nail file to gently smooth and shape the edges of your nails. If you have a small split, a quick filing session can make your nails look as good as new. For larger splits, trim the nail first and then use the file to even out the shape. You can decide whether to file just the broken nail or all your nails for a uniform look.
By following these steps to keep your nails clean, trimmed, and filed, you can help prevent nail splitting and maintain the overall health and appearance of your nails.
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Frequently asked questions
To prevent nail splitting and cracking, avoid overexposure to moisture, refrain from picking or biting your nails, and keep your nails and cuticles well-hydrated and moisturised. You should also wear gloves when exposing your hands to water and wet conditions, and avoid harsh chemicals and nail products that contain toluene and formaldehyde.
If your nail has a small split, simply file the nail to make it look as good as new. For larger splits, trim the nail and then file it to even out its shape. You can also use nail glue or a gel and silk wrap to fix the split.
Nails can split and crack due to nutrient deficiencies, ageing, fungal infections, physical trauma, or underlying medical conditions such as psoriasis.
