Liam Carter
Brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors, from ageing to dehydration. Nails that fluctuate between wet and dry environments, such as when washing dishes, can become brittle. This is because water dries out the skin, and if the skin at and below the cuticles is dry, then the underlying nail matrix is, too. Brittle nails can also be caused by harsh chemicals, such as acetone or nail polish remover, or by filing the nail plate too much.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Dehydration, frequent washing of hands, frequent dishwashing, frequent filing of the nail plate, trauma to the nail-generating tissues, ageing, hormone changes, harsh chemicals, frequent nail polishing, cold weather |
| Effect | Splitting, cracks, dents |
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What You'll Learn
Washing dishes
Brittle nails are nails with ridges rising at a 90-degree angle from the nail fold. They are prone to splitting along these ridges, leading to cracks and dents in the nail's free edge.
To prevent your nails from becoming dry and brittle when washing dishes, you can wear cotton-lined rubber gloves. This will protect your nails from the water and any harsh chemicals you may be using.
It is also important to keep your nails and the skin around them moisturised. You can do this by applying hand cream throughout the day, paying special attention to the area above your nail matrix, from the cuticles down to the second knuckle of your finger.
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Ageing
Brittle nails are a common sign of ageing. As we get older, our nails can become more prone to dryness and brittleness. This is because the nail matrix, which is the underlying structure that forms the nail, can become dry. This can be due to a variety of factors, including frequent hand washing, exposure to water, and changes in hormones.
During the winter months or in hot, dry environments, the low humidity can cause nails to lose moisture, leading to brittleness. Additionally, the use of harsh chemicals, such as nail polish removers containing acetone, can strip the nails of their natural oils, making them more susceptible to dryness and cracking.
To counteract the effects of ageing on nail health, it is important to keep the nails and the surrounding skin well-hydrated. Applying hand cream or lotion regularly, especially after washing hands, can help to replenish moisture and prevent dryness. Using a fast-absorbing lotion that contains nourishing ingredients like shea butter can be beneficial.
Wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing household chores that involve water or chemicals can also protect the nails from excessive moisture loss and chemical exposure. Taking these steps can help to maintain nail health and reduce the occurrence of brittle nails as we age.
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Dehydration
Brittle nails can be caused by dehydration. Nails that fluctuate between wet and dry environments can become brittle. This can be caused by spending too much time in water, or by frequently washing your hands or doing the dishes. Water dries out the skin, and if the skin at and below your cuticles is dry, then the underlying nail matrix is, too. This means the nail it forms will be prone to splitting, breaking and cracking.
To combat this, you can apply hand cream every time you wash your hands. Find a fast-absorbing lotion and apply it throughout the day, paying special attention to the area above your matrix: from the cuticles all the way down to the second knuckle of your finger. You can also wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when you do the dishes or when cleaning and using harsh chemicals.
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Weather
Brittle nails are more common in cold, dry weather. Nails that fluctuate between wet and dry environments can become brittle, so it's important to keep your nails and the skin around them moisturised. This can be done by applying hand cream every time you wash your hands.
During the winter months, the cold, dry air can sap moisture from your nails, making them more prone to splitting, breaking and cracking. This can also happen if you frequently wash your hands or do the dishes, as water dries out the skin and nails.
Harsh chemicals, such as acetone nail polish remover, can also cause nails to become dry and brittle. To prevent this, you can wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing tasks that involve water or chemicals, such as washing dishes or cleaning.
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Health issues
Dry, brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are more concerning than others.
One of the most common reasons for dry, brittle nails is dehydration. This can be caused by frequently washing your hands, doing the dishes, or spending too much time in water, which can dry out the skin and nails. Nails that are exposed to harsh chemicals, such as nail polish remover or acetone, are also more likely to become dry and brittle.
Age and hormone changes can also contribute to nail brittleness. As we age, our nails may become drier and more prone to splitting and cracking. Additionally, changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during menopause, can affect nail health.
In some cases, dry, brittle nails may be a sign of more serious health issues. For example, thyroid problems, anaemia, or vitamin deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin B7 (biotin) or vitamin D, can lead to nail changes, including dryness and brittleness.
It is important to note that certain lifestyle factors can also play a role in nail health. For instance, during the winter months or in hot, dry environments, nails can become drier and more brittle due to low humidity levels. Similarly, frequent exposure to wet and dry environments, such as swimming pools, can cause fluctuations in nail moisture levels, leading to brittleness.
To maintain nail health, it is recommended to keep nails moisturised, especially after washing hands or exposure to water. Applying a fast-absorbing lotion or hand cream can help prevent dryness and improve nail flexibility. Additionally, wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing dishes or cleaning can protect nails from harsh chemicals and moisture loss.
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Frequently asked questions
Dry, brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, hormone changes, dehydration, and overexposure to water.
As we age, our nails can become more brittle and prone to breakage. This is a typical sign of ageing and is often accompanied by thinning hair.
Hormone changes can also affect nail health. For example, women may experience brittle nails during menopause due to decreasing oestrogen levels.
To prevent dry, brittle nails, avoid overexposure to water and harsh chemicals. It is also important to keep your hands and nails moisturised, especially during the winter months when the air is drier.
