Ava Monroe
Brittle nails, or onychoschizia, are a common problem affecting about one in five people. Nails can become brittle, thin, and soft due to ageing, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, and environmental factors such as household cleaning products and nail care habits. In this article, we will explore the causes of brittle nails and provide tips on how to strengthen them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Doctors define brittle nails as nails with ridges rising at a 90-degree angle from the nail fold |
| Causes | Ageing, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, environmental factors, damage from household cleaning products, frequent nail polish use, nail extensions, acetone-based nail polish removers, iron deficiency anaemia, psoriasis |
| Treatment | Moisturising hands and nails with a cream or lotion containing lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), treating any underlying conditions |
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What You'll Learn
Nutritional deficiencies
Brittle nails, or onychoschizia, can be caused by nutritional deficiencies. Nails can become brittle, thin, and soft due to factors such as ageing, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, and even environmental reasons like damage from the chemicals in household cleaning products.
In addition to iron, other nutrients are important for nail health. Nails are made of a protein called keratin, which is produced by cells deep in the finger at the base of the nail. Ensuring adequate protein intake is essential for nail health, as protein provides the building blocks for keratin production.
Vitamins and minerals also play a crucial role in nail health. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is particularly important for nail strength and growth. A deficiency in biotin can lead to brittle nails. Other B vitamins, such as vitamin B12, are also essential for nail health.
To maintain strong and healthy nails, it is important to address any nutritional deficiencies. This can be achieved through a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. In some cases, supplements may be recommended to address specific deficiencies.
In summary, nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of iron, biotin, and other B vitamins, can contribute to brittle nails. Addressing these deficiencies through a balanced diet or targeted supplementation can help improve nail health and reduce brittleness.
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Underlying medical conditions
Brittle nails can be caused by a number of underlying medical conditions. One of the most common is iron deficiency anaemia, which can be treated, improving the health of your nails. Nails can also become brittle due to psoriasis, a condition that causes skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin, forming scales and dry patches.
Brittle nails can also be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium and zinc. In addition, environmental factors, such as damage from household cleaning products, can cause nails to become brittle.
Brittle nails are also more common among older adults, as nails naturally decrease in strength over time. However, if only your fingernails are affected, and your toenails are strong, this may indicate that an external factor or condition is the cause.
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Ageing
Nails can become fragile due to a variety of factors, including ageing. As we age, our nails naturally decrease in strength, becoming more brittle, thin, and soft. This makes them more prone to breaking or cracking. Ageing-related nail changes are more common among older adults, but people of all ages can experience brittle nails.
There are also other factors that can contribute to nail fragility. Nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anaemia, can weaken the nails. Additionally, underlying medical conditions, such as psoriasis, can affect nail health. Environmental factors, such as frequent nail polish use, nail extensions, and exposure to chemicals in household cleaning products or nail polish removers, can also play a role in nail fragility. The use of acetone-based nail polish removers, in particular, can weaken the natural structure of the nails, making them more susceptible to breakage.
While nail fragility can be a concern, there are ways to improve nail health and reduce breakage. Consistent nail care habits, such as moisturising the hands and nails with creams or lotions containing lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), can help strengthen the nails. Additionally, addressing any underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies can improve nail health.
It is important to note that nail health can provide insights into overall health. Changes in nail appearance or texture may indicate underlying health issues. Therefore, if nail fragility persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
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Environmental factors
- Damage from chemicals in household cleaning products
- Frequent nail polish use
- Nail extensions
- Acetone-based nail polish removers
These can weaken the natural structure of the nails and dry them out, making them more fragile and prone to breaking.
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Nail care habits
Brittle nails can be caused by a number of factors, including aging, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, and environmental reasons such as damage from household cleaning products.
- Avoid frequent nail polish use, nail extensions, and acetone-based nail polish removers as these can weaken the natural structure of your nails, making them more prone to breaking.
- Moisturise your hands and nails regularly with a cream or lotion containing lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). This can help improve the health and appearance of your nails, making them less fragile.
- Be gentle with your cuticles. Instead of pushing them back or cutting them, gently scrape the cuticle away to help nail polish adhere better to your fingernails.
- Avoid filing the surface of your nails, as this can thin and weaken them.
- If your brittle nails are caused by an underlying condition, such as iron deficiency anaemia or psoriasis, seek treatment for that condition. Addressing the underlying issue can help improve the health of your nails.
By adopting these nail care habits and being mindful of the potential causes of brittle nails, you can help strengthen and protect your nails, keeping them healthy and resilient.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, frequent nail polish use, nail extensions, and acetone-based nail polish removers can weaken the natural structure of the nails and dry them out, making them more fragile and prone to breaking.
Yes, nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia, can cause nails to become brittle.
Yes, underlying medical conditions, such as psoriasis, can cause nails to become brittle.
Yes, environmental factors, such as damage from the chemicals in household cleaning products, can cause nails to become brittle.
Yes, nails naturally decrease in strength over time, which can cause them to become brittle and break more easily.
