Isla Bennett
Peeling and breaking fingernails are not only unsightly but can also be painful. The medical term for peeling or splitting fingernails is onychoschizia. While peeling nails are usually caused by external factors, such as manicures, exposure to chemicals, or diet, they can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Internal Causes | Vitamin or iron deficiency, thyroid problems, lung disease, anemia, fungal infection, psoriasis, lichen planus, medication, aging, dehydration |
| External Causes | Exposure to water, exposure to chemicals, manicure, diet, trauma, buffing, nail cosmetics, nail procedures, nail-hardening agents, acrylic nails, glue, dyes, cancer treatment |
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What You'll Learn
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Peeling and breaking fingernails can be caused by vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The most common deficiency associated with nail issues is iron deficiency, which can cause nails to become brittle and peel. Without treatment, a mild iron deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin.
Other vitamin deficiencies that can cause nail problems include a lack of vitamins A, B, C, and D. Biotin, a B vitamin supplement, is often recommended to help heal cracked, brittle nails. Nails are made of a protective fibrous protein called keratin, which is also found in skin and hair. Keratin is made up of amino acids, which the body can produce from the protein found in meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and vegetables like sweet potatoes.
In addition to vitamin deficiencies, mineral deficiencies can also contribute to nail problems. Specifically, a lack of zinc or calcium can cause issues with nail health.
It is important to note that peeling and breaking nails can also be caused by external factors such as exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or certain nail products. Medical conditions such as thyroid problems, anemia, and psoriasis can also affect nail health. If you are concerned about the condition of your nails, it is recommended to consult a medical professional.
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Exposure to water, humidity, and chemicals
The use of nail polish and other cosmetic treatments can also impact the health of fingernails. Certain chemicals found in nail polishes, such as formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor, have been linked to allergic contact dermatitis. Formaldehyde, in particular, has been recognized by the National Cancer Institute as a potential cancer-causing substance. The harsh removal processes of some nail polishes, such as gel polish, can also damage the nail plate and cuticle.
Additionally, the application of nail polish in humid environments can affect drying times. High humidity levels can cause nail polish to remain tacky for extended periods, impacting the overall durability and longevity of the manicure.
It is important to note that while exposure to water, humidity, and chemicals can contribute to nail issues, other factors such as external trauma, vitamin deficiencies, and internal pathologic processes may also be at play.
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External trauma
Nail injuries can occur when any part of the nail becomes injured, including the nail, nail bed, cuticle, and the skin around the sides of the nail. A nail injury can be caused by cutting, tearing, smashing, or bruising the nail, or the nail being torn away from the skin. Smashing a finger in a door, hitting it with a hammer or other heavy object, or cutting it with a knife or other sharp object can cause a nail injury.
A fingernail can be injured by a blow to the nail or by closing a finger in a door or drawer. This kind of trauma commonly results in blood under the nail, called subungual hematoma. Nails can also be accidentally torn or split, or a splinter can get under the nail. Repeated trauma to toenails, caused by ill-fitting shoes, can lead to deformities in the nails. Toenail trauma can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too small.
If the nail is torn or jagged, it should be trimmed to avoid snagging it on things and causing further injury. If the nail lifts completely off the nail bed, it may be most comfortable to replace the nail and hold it in place with a bandage. Nails will not reattach themselves to the nail bed after they have separated from it, but in most cases, a new nail will slowly regrow. If blood under the nail occupies more than half of the nail area, a physician should evaluate the finger because it could signify an underlying bone fracture or tissue tear.
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Underlying health conditions
Peeling and breaking fingernails can be caused by various external factors, but they can also be a sign of an underlying health condition.
Iron deficiency
Iron deficiency is a common cause of brittle nails. Iron plays a crucial role in carrying red blood cells and oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, resulting in a severe lack of circulating red blood cells. Mild iron deficiency is more likely to cause nail issues than a severe underlying health condition. However, it is important to address this issue as it can develop into something more serious over time.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Deficiencies in other vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and selenium, can also cause nail problems. Scattered white spots on the nails, for example, can indicate a zinc deficiency.
Thyroid problems
Thyroid disease can cause a slower turnover rate of the skin and nails, leading to older nail tissue staying on the nails for longer. This results in nails becoming brittle. An underactive thyroid may also be the cause of nail issues.
Lung disease
In some cases, nail abnormalities may be a sign of lung disease. However, this is not a common occurrence.
Gland (endocrine system) diseases
Gland diseases, or issues with the endocrine system, can cause nail problems.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is a serious bacterial infection that can cause nail issues, including peeling and breaking.
Sjögren syndrome
Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune disease that often occurs in people with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. It can cause nail issues, among other symptoms.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition, or a poor diet, can lead to nail problems. Nails that are strong and healthy require the right balance of moisture. Nails that are too dry will be more prone to splitting, peeling, and breaking.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections of the nail can cause nail dystrophy, including nail peeling. This may also result in thickening of the nails and white or yellow-brown discolouration.
Psoriasis, endocarditis, and nail melanoma
Black lines on the nails, which can appear brown or dark red, may be a sign of underlying issues, including psoriasis, endocarditis, or nail melanoma.
It is important to note that nail issues are usually not a sign of a serious underlying illness. However, if you are concerned or if your nail issues are accompanied by other symptoms, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional.
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Manicures and nail cosmetics
During a manicure, cuticles are often removed with a cuticle nipper or liquid cuticle remover, which compromises the integrity of the nails and the skin of the cuticles once they grow back. The cuticle is the nail's natural protective seal, and when that seal is removed or becomes dry and dehydrated, it becomes compromised, and water and moisture can enter the nail unit. This can lead to chronic paronychia (red, swollen skin behind the cuticle) and white patches, bumps, thickening, and discolouration of the nail beds.
To prevent this, Dr. Dana recommends gently pushing the cuticle back in the shower with a washcloth and applying cuticle oil after your shower and throughout the day. Cuticle oils or ointments should be applied daily or more if needed, just like applying a moisturiser to your face.
To prevent nail peeling, it is recommended to reduce manicure frequency and use a gentle, acetone-free nail polish remover.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many reasons why your nails might peel and break. The most common causes are external trauma to the nail, such as excessive buffing, picking off nail polish, or exposure to harsh chemicals and soaps. Nails can also peel and break due to dehydration or overexposure to liquids, causing the bonds between the nail layers to weaken.
To treat peeling and breaking nails, you can try taking an iron supplement or eating iron-rich foods, keeping your nails moisturized, and wearing gloves when in contact with water or chemicals. You can also try applying a nail strengthener or conditioner to promote new nail growth and protect your nails from further damage.
If your nails are also painful or bleeding, or if you have other symptoms of a severe condition, it is recommended that you seek medical advice. In some cases, peeling and breaking nails can indicate an underlying health condition such as anemia, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies.
