Sophia Delgado
Split nails, or onychoschizia, can be caused by a number of factors, including injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, and frequent wetting and drying of the nails. Women experience split nails twice as often as men, and split nails are more common in people aged 50 and older. In this article, we will explore the causes, treatment, and prevention of split nails, as well as the underlying health conditions that may be contributing to this issue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A vertical or horizontal crack through the fingernail |
| Texture | Soft, thin, or brittle |
| Causes | Injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, anxiety, nervousness, fake nails, fungal, bacterial, or yeast infections |
| Risk factors | Women experience split nails twice as often as men, and split nails are more common in people 50 and older |
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What You'll Learn
Split nails can be caused by injury
Injury is not the only cause of split nails. They can also be caused by harsh chemicals, psoriasis, lichen planus, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, or vitamin A (oral retinoids). Women experience split nails twice as often as men, and split nails are more common in people aged 50 and older.
Frequent wetting and drying of the hands is the most common cause of brittle nails. This can lead to onychoschizia, a condition that causes horizontal splits across the width of the nail. Reducing how often you wet and dry your nails can help improve brittle nails and nail splitting and peeling.
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They can also be caused by harsh chemicals
Splits in fingernails, also known as onychoschizia, can be caused by harsh chemicals. This is because harsh chemicals can weaken the nail, making it more prone to splitting.
Harsh chemicals can be found in many household cleaning products, such as bleach, ammonia, and detergents. These chemicals can be very drying to the nails, causing them to become brittle and more susceptible to splitting. In addition, frequent exposure to water can also contribute to nail splitting, as water can weaken the nail plate and make it more fragile. Therefore, it is important to wear gloves when handling harsh chemicals or when washing dishes or doing other household chores that involve water.
Harsh nail polishes and removers can also contain chemicals that can damage the nails. Formaldehyde, a common ingredient in nail hardeners, can make the nails more brittle and prone to splitting. Acetone, found in many nail polish removers, can also be very drying to the nails and cuticles, leading to nail splitting. To prevent this, it is recommended to use nail polishes and removers that are free from harsh chemicals and to always moisturise the nails and cuticles after using these products.
In addition to external chemicals, certain medications can also contribute to nail splitting. Oral retinoids, which are medications made from vitamin A, can cause nail splitting and peeling. This is because retinoids can affect the growth and structure of the nails, making them more fragile and prone to damage. If you are taking oral retinoids and experiencing nail splitting, it is important to consult with your doctor to discuss alternative treatments or ways to manage this side effect.
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Psoriasis can cause split nails
Split nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, and vitamin A medications. Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause nail splitting, also known as onychoschizia. This condition leads to horizontal splits across the width of the nail, with the nail plate peeling off in layers. It is often seen alongside onychorrhexis, which causes longitudinal splits or ridges in the nail plate.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to form. It can also impact the nails, leading to nail splitting. The exact mechanism by which psoriasis causes nail splitting is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the inflammation and thickening of the nail bed that occurs with the condition.
The treatment for nail splitting caused by psoriasis involves addressing the underlying condition. Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, and calcineurin inhibitors, can be applied to the nails to reduce inflammation and improve nail health. In more severe cases, oral medications or light therapy may be recommended.
It is important to note that nail splitting can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as psoriasis, and should not be ignored. Severe and repeated nail splits can increase the risk of infection and permanent nail bed damage if left untreated. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing nail splitting to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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Nail fungus can cause split nails
Split nails, or onychoschizia, are vertical or horizontal cracks through the fingernail. The nail may also feel soft, thin, or brittle. Nail fungus can cause split nails, along with injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, vitamin deficiencies, and yeast infections.
Nail fungus is a common condition that can affect the fingernails or toenails. It is caused by a fungal infection that invades the nail bed and can lead to nail discolouration, thickening, and splitting. The medical term for nail fungus is onychomycosis.
Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments, so nail fungus is more common in people who frequently wear tight-fitting shoes or have their hands in water for extended periods. People with weakened immune systems or diabetes are also at higher risk of developing nail fungus.
If you suspect you have nail fungus, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments may be recommended, or in more severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed.
To prevent nail fungus and reduce the risk of split nails, keep your nails clean, dry, and trimmed. Avoid picking or biting your nails, as this can cause stress to the nail and make it more susceptible to infection and splitting.
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Vitamin deficiencies can cause split nails
Split nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, and vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin deficiencies can cause nails to become soft, thin, or brittle, leading to splitting. Women experience split nails twice as often as men, and the condition is more common in people aged 50 and older.
Vitamin deficiencies, in particular, can weaken the nail structure, making it more susceptible to splitting. Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as biotin (vitamin B7) and vitamin A, have been linked to nail splitting. Biotin plays a crucial role in nail health, and a lack of it can result in brittle, thin, or splitting nails. Vitamin A is also essential for nail growth and maintenance, and insufficient intake can lead to nail abnormalities, including splitting.
In addition to vitamin deficiencies, other factors can contribute to nail splitting. Repeated wetting and drying of the nails is a common cause of brittle nails, which can eventually lead to splitting. This is often seen in individuals who frequently wash their hands or work with water, such as healthcare workers or those in the food industry. The use of harsh chemicals, such as cleaning products or nail polish removers, can also weaken the nail structure and contribute to splitting.
Underlying health conditions, such as psoriasis or lichen planus, can also manifest as nail splitting. Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition, can cause nail changes, including pitting, thickening, and splitting. Lichen planus, an inflammatory condition, can lead to nail ridging and splitting, particularly in individuals taking oral medications containing vitamin A (oral retinoids).
It is important to address vitamin deficiencies and maintain a well-balanced diet to support nail health. Foods rich in biotin, such as eggs, nuts, and seeds, can help strengthen nails and prevent splitting. Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin A through foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, can also promote nail health.
In summary, vitamin deficiencies can be a significant contributor to nail splitting. By addressing these deficiencies and making lifestyle changes, such as reducing exposure to harsh chemicals and frequent wetting and drying of the nails, individuals can improve nail health and reduce the occurrence of splitting.
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Frequently asked questions
It could be a condition called onychoschizia, which is caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails.
The nail plate peels off in layers, with horizontal splits across the width of the nail.
Yes, injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, and vitamin A medications can all cause nail splitting.
The nail may feel soft, thin, or brittle.
You can treat a split nail, but if an underlying health condition is causing the nail splitting, you'll need to treat the condition first.
