Noah Sinclair
Flaky fingernails are a common issue with a variety of causes, from overexposure to water to vitamin deficiencies. Nails are made from a protein called keratin, which is composed of multiple layers that can peel and weaken. This can be caused by external factors such as harsh nail treatments, improper nail polish removal, and overexposure to water, as well as internal factors like vitamin and mineral deficiencies. To treat flaky nails, it is recommended to use a rich moisturizer or nail oil, wear gloves when doing chores, and eat a well-balanced diet. In some cases, flaky nails can indicate a more serious condition, such as thyroid issues or a fungal infection, and it is advised to consult a doctor if the issue persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Overexposure to water, age, nutritional deficiency, use of acrylics or gel manicures, harsh cleaning products, overexposure to liquids, diet and health conditions, fungal infection, vitamin deficiency, thyroid issues, overexposure to chemicals, external trauma to the nail |
| Prevention | Wear gloves while doing chores, maintain a healthy diet, use a rich moisturiser or nail oil, use products labelled "hypoallergenic", use Self Love Oil to protect against water absorption |
| Treatment | Consult a doctor, use Rest & Repair Nail Serum, use biotin supplements, use a glass nail file, use jojoba-based nail oil, use Argan oil, increase iron intake, use multivitamins |
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What You'll Learn
- Use oils like jojoba, argan, or coconut to nourish your nails
- Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to protect nails from harsh chemicals and moisture
- Avoid nail polishes and manicures that can weaken nails
- Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, calcium, and iron to prevent nutritional deficiencies
- Consult a doctor to rule out any internal causes, such as thyroid issues or fungal infections
Use oils like jojoba, argan, or coconut to nourish your nails
Oiling your nails is a great way to prevent flaking and nourish your nails. Jojoba oil, argan oil, and coconut oil are all excellent choices for nail care.
Jojoba oil is a versatile option that mimics the natural sebum produced by our skin. Its moisturizing properties help prevent brittleness and promote healthy nail growth. With its high vitamin E content, jojoba oil can be used to soften your nail bed and repair any damage. Jojoba oil is also gentle enough for daily use and can be applied to your cuticles before bed.
Argan oil is another premium option for nail care, offering a combination of moisturizing and strengthening properties. Its fast absorption rate makes it suitable for both day and night use, and its high nutrient content provides comprehensive nourishment for nails and cuticles. Argan oil can be used as a cuticle cream, or you can add a few drops to your hand lotion.
Coconut oil is a natural option with strong antimicrobial properties. It can be used as a base coat before applying nail polish to prevent flaking. Coconut oil is also an affordable and accessible option for nail care.
To maximize the benefits of these oils, be sure to clean and dry your nails thoroughly before application. You can also add a few drops of oil to your nail polish to help nourish your nails as you wear it.
In addition to using oils, remember that proper nutrition, gentle handling, and protection from harsh chemicals are also important for maintaining healthy, strong nails.
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Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to protect nails from harsh chemicals and moisture
Wearing gloves while cleaning or washing dishes is a great way to protect your nails from harsh chemicals and moisture. This is a recommended practice, especially if you are frequently exposed to chemicals and water. Gloves act as a barrier, shielding your nails from potential damage.
Disposable nitrile gloves are a popular choice for protection. They are durable, resistant to many chemicals, and offer a comfortable fit. Nitrile gloves are also less likely to cause allergic reactions, unlike latex gloves, which can lead to severe allergies with overexposure. If you are allergic to latex, vinyl gloves can be a suitable alternative, although they may not be as durable. It is important to choose powder-free gloves to avoid potential contamination of the nail bed or nail polish and to prevent allergic reactions to the powder.
Wearing gloves can help prevent your nails from drying out, a common issue caused by frequent hand-washing, exposure to strong soaps, and working with chemical solvents. These activities can strip away the natural oils from your nails, making them prone to peeling and splitting. By wearing gloves, you create a protective layer that keeps the natural oils intact and maintains the health of your nails.
Additionally, consider applying a hydrating cream or oil to your nails before donning gloves. This extra step can provide added moisture and further protect your nails from water damage. Oils such as jojoba oil or argan oil are excellent choices due to their ability to penetrate the layers of keratin in your nails, helping to keep them strong and resilient.
In summary, wearing gloves while cleaning or washing dishes is a simple yet effective way to safeguard your nails from harsh chemicals and moisture. By choosing the right type of gloves and incorporating hydrating creams or oils, you can maintain the health and strength of your nails, preventing them from becoming brittle and prone to peeling.
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Avoid nail polishes and manicures that can weaken nails
Flaking or peeling nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including overexposure to water, age, nutritional deficiencies, and the regular use of acrylics or gel manicures. If you are experiencing flaking or peeling nails, it is recommended to take a break from nail polishes and manicures that can further weaken your nails.
Nail polishes, especially gel or dip nail polishes, can cause nails to thin and peel if they are not removed properly. The weight of acrylic nails and the harsh glues used to adhere them to the natural nail can also suffocate and weaken the nails, leading to peeling. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the use of these polishes and manicures to allow your nails to recover and strengthen.
Additionally, certain chemicals found in nail polish removers, hand sanitizers, and other products can dry out and weaken nails, making them more prone to peeling. When choosing nail care products, opt for those labelled "hypoallergenic" as they typically contain milder or natural chemical agents that are less likely to strip your nails of their natural oils. Look for products that are infused with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil, which can help to hydrate and protect your nails.
It is also important to note that picking at nail polish can cause nails to start peeling. Therefore, it is recommended to take a break from nail polishes and give your nails time to recover and strengthen. In the meantime, you can apply a rich moisturizer or nail oil to your nails after buffing them to keep them from drying out and flaking.
If you choose to continue painting your nails, ensure you are providing them with adequate hydration and protection. Oiling your nails regularly can help prevent peeling by keeping the layers of keratin bonded together. Consider using a cuticle oil, such as jojoba-based oil, as its molecules can penetrate the nail plate more easily and provide deeper nourishment.
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Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, calcium, and iron to prevent nutritional deficiencies
Eating a well-balanced diet is a great way to prevent nutritional deficiencies and promote healthy nails. Ensuring your diet is rich in vitamins, calcium, and iron can help to strengthen your nails and prevent them from becoming brittle and prone to flaking.
Vitamin C, for example, aids the absorption of non-heme iron, so it is beneficial to consume foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and peppers, alongside non-heme iron sources. Non-heme iron is found in plants and includes foods such as beans, lentils, and spinach. Heme iron, on the other hand, is more easily absorbed by the body and is found in animal products like red meat, shellfish, and eggs. Red meat is particularly rich in heme iron, and a serving of ground beef contains 15% of the recommended daily value (DV) of iron. Shellfish, such as clams, oysters, and mussels, are also excellent sources of heme iron, with clams providing up to 17% DV in a 3.5-ounce serving.
Calcium-rich foods are also important for nail health. Dairy products like yogurt and cheese are excellent sources of calcium, with one cup of plain yogurt providing up to 23% DV. Tofu, edamame, and certain seeds, such as poppy, sesame, celery, and chia seeds, are also great nondairy sources of calcium.
In addition to consuming a balanced diet, you may also consider taking supplements. Biotin, for example, has been recommended by some people to help with nail health. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to ensure they are right for your individual needs.
While external factors, such as manicures, chemicals, and exposure to water, can also contribute to nail flaking, ensuring you eat a nutrient-rich diet can help to strengthen your nails and reduce the occurrence of flaking.
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Consult a doctor to rule out any internal causes, such as thyroid issues or fungal infections
Flaking or peeling fingernails can be a sign of an internal health issue. While it is usually nothing to worry about, it is worth consulting a doctor to rule out any underlying causes. One such cause could be thyroid disease. The thyroid affects nearly every cell in the body, and if it is not functioning correctly, it can cause systemic issues that may show up as brittle or dry nails. Other symptoms of thyroid problems include weight changes, anxiety, fatigue, and brain fog. A simple blood test can determine whether your thyroid is functioning correctly, and treatment is usually straightforward.
Another potential internal cause of nail flaking is a fungal infection. Formerly called onychomycosis, this infection can cause nail dystrophy, including nail peeling, thickening, or discolouration. To diagnose a fungal infection, a dermatologist may take a nail clipping to be examined in a lab. Treatment can then be prescribed to address the infection.
Vitamin deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, can also cause nail flaking. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help address nutritional deficiencies, but you may also want to ask your doctor about taking supplements. Biotin, for example, is known to improve nail health.
If you are experiencing nail flaking and are unable to identify an obvious external cause, such as exposure to harsh chemicals or frequent manicures, it is a good idea to consult a doctor to rule out any internal health issues. They will be able to examine your nails, review your medical history, and order any necessary lab work to identify the underlying cause.
In addition to consulting a doctor, you can take some simple steps to help improve the health of your nails. This includes wearing gloves when doing tasks that involve water or chemicals, drying your hands and nails thoroughly, and regularly applying a moisturiser or nail oil to prevent excessive dryness.
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Frequently asked questions
Flaking fingernails can be treated by using a rich moisturiser or nail oil.
Some home remedies to treat flaking fingernails include using argan oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil.
To prevent your nails from flaking, avoid overexposure to water, wear gloves when doing household chores, and use a mild hand soap or sanitiser.
Yes, a diet lacking calcium, iron, or biotin can cause flaking fingernails.
If your flaking fingernails are accompanied by symptoms such as weight changes, anxiety, fatigue, or bleeding, it is recommended to see a doctor as it may indicate an underlying health condition.
