Sophia Delgado
Nail splitting, also known as onychoschizia, is a common condition that causes vertical or horizontal cracks through the fingernail. Nails can become soft, thin or brittle, and may split in two. There are many causes of nail splitting, including injury, harsh chemicals, vitamin deficiencies, and skin conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Onychoschizia means plate-like splitting of the free edge of the nail |
| Appearance | Vertical or horizontal cracks through the nail |
| Texture | Nails may feel soft, thin, or brittle |
| Causes | Injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, ageing, pregnancy, nail polish, skin conditions, overexposure to moisture |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Nail splitting is called onychoschizia
Onychoschizia may be seen alongside another common nail condition called onychorrhexis, which involves longitudinal splits or ridges in the nail plate.
You can treat a split nail with clear nail polish or nail glue, but these are only temporary solutions. If an underlying health condition is causing nail splitting, you'll need to treat the condition first. Severe and repeated nail splits can increase your risk of infection and permanent nail bed damage if left untreated.
Chupa and Your Nails: What Does It Mean?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Nail splitting is caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails
Nail splitting, or onychoschizia, is a condition that causes horizontal or vertical splits in the nail plate. It is most often caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, which can occur through activities such as washing dishes or hands, or repeated nail polish use. This overexposure to moisture causes the nails to become weak and brittle, making them more prone to splitting.
Nail splitting can also be caused by other factors such as ageing, pregnancy, nail polish, injuries, and skin conditions. It is more common in women and people over the age of 50. Additionally, underlying health conditions such as psoriasis, lichen planus, or vitamin deficiencies can contribute to nail splitting.
To address nail splitting caused by repeated wetting and drying, it is important to reduce exposure to moisture. This can be achieved by wearing gloves during activities that involve water, such as washing dishes or cleaning. Allowing nails to dry thoroughly after exposure to water can also help prevent excessive moisture retention.
Additionally, maintaining proper nail care practices is crucial. This includes avoiding excessive use of nail polish, as it can trap moisture and contribute to nail splitting. Keeping nails trimmed and filed can help reduce the risk of splitting, as shorter nails are less likely to catch and tear.
In some cases, nail splitting may be a sign of an underlying health condition. If nail splitting is severe or persistent, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. They can help identify any potential underlying causes and provide appropriate treatment options.
Nail Splitting: What Does it Mean?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Nail splitting can be fixed with clear nail polish or nail glue
Nail splitting, also known as onychoschizia, is a condition that causes horizontal or vertical splits in the nail plate. It is most often caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, but can also be caused by injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, aging, pregnancy, nail polish, and skin conditions.
Club Nails: What Do They Mean and Why Get Them?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Nail splitting can be a sign of an underlying medical condition
Nail splitting, or onychoschizia, is a condition that causes horizontal or vertical splits in the nail plate. It is most often caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, which can make them weak and
Injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, or vitamin deficiencies can all lead to nail splitting. For example, people with certain conditions such as psoriasis or lichen planus, or those taking oral medications made from vitamin A, may experience nail splitting or ridging. Women experience split nails twice as often as men, and split nails are more common in people aged 50 and older.
If an underlying health condition is causing nail splitting, it is important to treat the condition first. Severe and repeated nail splits can increase the risk of infection and permanent nail bed damage if left untreated.
Therefore, if you are experiencing nail splitting, it is important to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate action to treat it. This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as reducing exposure to moisture or harsh chemicals, or addressing any vitamin deficiencies. In some cases, medical treatment may be necessary to manage the underlying condition.
Teeth and Nails: White Spots, What's the Deal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Nail splitting can be caused by vitamin deficiencies
Nail splitting, also known as onychoschizia, is a condition that causes horizontal or vertical splits in the nail plate. It can be caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, overexposure to moisture, injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, or vitamin deficiencies.
Vitamin deficiencies can lead to nail splitting as the body may not be getting enough of the essential nutrients it needs to maintain strong and healthy nails. For example, a deficiency in biotin, a water-soluble vitamin found in foods such as eggs, nuts, and seeds, can cause nail splitting. Biotin plays an important role in maintaining the health of the nail matrix, the area responsible for nail growth. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to nail thinning and splitting.
Additionally, a lack of certain minerals, such as zinc and iron, can also contribute to nail splitting. Zinc is important for nail strength and growth, and a deficiency can lead to weak and brittle nails that are prone to splitting. Iron, on the other hand, is essential for oxygen transport and nail health. A deficiency in iron can cause nail abnormalities, including nail splitting and ridging.
It is important to address vitamin deficiencies as they can not only affect nail health but also overall health and well-being. If you suspect a vitamin deficiency, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. This may involve dietary changes, taking supplements, or addressing any underlying health conditions that may be causing the deficiency.
Understanding the Meaning of 20 Penny Nail Standard
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Nail splitting, or onychoschizia, is a condition that causes horizontal or vertical splits in the nail plate.
A split nail will have a crack through the nail, and the nail may feel soft, thin or brittle. The nail plate peels off in layers.
Nail splitting can be caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, injury, harsh chemicals, psoriasis, nail fungus, vitamin deficiencies, ageing, pregnancy, nail polish, or skin conditions.
