Noah Sinclair
Peeling nails are a common problem, affecting nearly 20% of the population. Nails are made of a protein called keratin and have multiple layers that can peel, causing them to appear thin and weak. The medical term for this condition is onychoschizia. Peeling nails can result from external factors such as trauma to the nail or internal factors such as vitamin or iron deficiency. In rare cases, peeling nails can indicate a more serious underlying health condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| External trauma to the nail | Picking off nail polish, pressing on nails, biting nails, using them as tools, opening objects, minor accidents |
| Internal causes | Iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, zinc deficiency, dehydration, thyroid problems, lung disease, underlying medical condition |
| Manicure and chemicals | Gel or acrylic nail polish, harsh nail polish remover, hand soap, sanitizers, laundry detergent |
| Age-related changes | Blood circulation problems, extended exposure to UV rays |
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What You'll Learn
Trauma to the nail
Physical trauma to the nail is one of the most common causes of peeling fingernails. This can occur in several ways, each resulting in pain and damage to the nail. The nail may be torn, either partially or entirely, from its nail bed, leading to bleeding and potential nail deformation. This type of injury is often caused by accidents or forceful impacts, such as catching your finger in a door or window, and can be extremely painful. Another form of trauma is a crushing injury, where the nail takes the force of an object impacting it, which can cause the nail to detach and result in significant pain and bruising. These injuries can also lead to subungual hematomas, or bleeding under the nail, which presents as a dark discoloration and can be very painful.
In addition to acute injuries, repetitive trauma can also cause nail peeling. This may be observed in individuals who frequently engage in manual labor or activities that require constant use of the hands, such as typing or playing musical instruments. The constant pressure and friction can lead to nail weakness and eventual peeling, especially if proper care is not taken to protect the nails.
To prevent nail peeling due to trauma, it is important to take precautionary measures. This includes wearing protective gloves when engaging in activities that may expose your nails to potential hazards, such as gardening or construction work. For those who experience nail peeling due to repetitive motions, taking breaks and practicing proper hand and nail care can help strengthen and protect the nails. Keeping nails trimmed, moisturized, and free from harsh chemicals or excessive water exposure can also reduce the likelihood of nail peeling.
In the event of a nail injury, proper care should be administered to prevent infection and promote healing. Minor tears or crush injuries may be managed at home with proper cleaning and bandaging. However, more severe injuries, especially those involving bleeding or intense pain, may require medical attention. A doctor can assess the damage and provide appropriate treatment, which may include drainage of subungual hematomas, antibiotics to prevent infection, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to repair the nail bed and restore nail growth.
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Underlying health conditions
Peeling fingernails can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. While this is rare, it is important to be aware of the possibility and seek medical advice if you are concerned.
One of the most common underlying health conditions associated with peeling nails is a vitamin or mineral deficiency, particularly an iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can lead to thinning, abnormal shaping, and increased breakage of the nails. It can also cause anaemia, which results in a severe lack of circulating red blood cells. Other vitamin deficiencies that may cause nail peeling include vitamin B12 and selenium deficiencies. Eating a variety of whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can provide the vitamins and minerals needed for nail health.
Another possible underlying health condition related to peeling nails is thyroid dysfunction, specifically an underactive thyroid. This condition can cause weight changes, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, and nail brittleness.
In rare cases, peeling nails may be a sign of lung disease, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, horizontal ridges on the nails, known as Beau's lines, could indicate kidney disease or another underlying condition.
Other underlying health conditions that have been linked to nail peeling include eczema, fungal infections, and inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis.
While nail issues can be a cause for concern, they often occur due to external factors such as injury, moisture imbalance, or exposure to certain chemicals. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your nail health or suspect an underlying condition.
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Lack of moisture
Certain chemicals and ingredients in products such as hand soap, sanitizers, laundry detergent, nail treatments, and nail polish can also contribute to a lack of moisture in the nails. These products can strip the nails of their natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness and peeling.
To prevent and treat nail peeling due to a lack of moisture, it is important to keep the nails and surrounding skin well-hydrated. This can be done by using a rich moisturizer or nail oil, such as coconut oil, after exposure to water or chemicals. Wearing gloves while doing water-heavy tasks or using products with milder or natural chemical agents can also help prevent moisture loss.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet that includes iron- and biotin-rich foods like avocado, whole grains, eggs, cauliflower, and lean meats can help strengthen the nails and improve their overall health. Taking supplements such as vitamins A, C, E, and B vitamins can also support nail health and prevent peeling.
By addressing the lack of moisture in the nails and making appropriate lifestyle changes, it is possible to achieve stronger, healthier, and more resilient nails.
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Diet
Fingernail peeling can be caused by various factors, including diet, manicure habits, and exposure to certain chemicals. A well-balanced diet rich in specific nutrients is essential for maintaining healthy nails and addressing nutritional deficiencies that may contribute to nail peeling.
Nails are primarily composed of a protective fibrous protein called keratin, which gives them strength and structure. However, when nails become brittle or weak, they are more susceptible to peeling and splitting. Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients that support keratin production and overall nail health is crucial.
A diet rich in biotin, also known as vitamin B7, can promote healthy nail growth and strengthen nails. Foods such as eggs, nuts, and legumes are excellent sources of biotin. Additionally, incorporating foods high in zinc, vitamin E, and iron into your diet can be beneficial. Lean meats, seafood, tofu, and nuts provide these essential minerals and vitamins, contributing to nail health.
Iron deficiency is a common cause of nail peeling. It is recommended to include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as spinach, pumpkin seeds, and lentils. If necessary, consider taking an iron supplement to ensure adequate intake. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, as excessive iron intake can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients.
In addition to specific nutrients, maintaining a well-balanced diet overall is essential for nail health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help address nutritional deficiencies that may contribute to nail peeling. Staying properly hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day can also support nail health, as dehydration can be a factor in nail peeling.
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Manicure and chemicals
Manicures and the use of chemicals on your nails can cause them to peel. Chemicals in nail polishes, hardeners, removers, and glues can be harmful to your nails and body. For example, formaldehyde, an ingredient in some nail hardeners and polishes, can make your nails brittle and more likely to break or peel. Toluene, found in nail polishes, hardeners, and removers, can cause dry or cracked skin. Dibutyl phthalate, or DBP, commonly found in nail polishes and hardeners, is another chemical that can lead to nail peeling.
Additionally, the use of certain manicure techniques can cause nail peeling. For instance, excessive buffing can dry out your nails, making them brittle and prone to damage and peeling. Picking off nail polish can also cause your nails to peel.
The impact of these chemicals is more pronounced for nail technicians, who are exposed to them daily. Poor ventilation in nail salons exacerbates the issue, and technicians can be exposed to harmful vapors, mists, and dust containing chemical compounds from polishes and acrylics. These compounds can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, mouth, and throat and cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and breathing problems. In more severe cases, exposure to these chemicals can lead to asthma, difficulty concentrating, loss of smell, liver and kidney damage, and harm to unborn children during pregnancy.
To address these concerns, organizations and local governments are working to implement programs that encourage the use of less toxic products and improve ventilation in nail salons. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides resources to protect worker health and reduce chemical exposures. Consumers can also take precautions by reading labels carefully, following warnings, and ensuring good ventilation when using nail products.
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Frequently asked questions
Some common causes of peeling fingernails include trauma to the nail, such as physical damage or aggressive polish removal methods, and overexposure to moisture, such as frequent hand washing or dishwashing without gloves.
Some underlying health conditions that may cause peeling fingernails include vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as iron or zinc deficiency, thyroid problems, lung disease, and in rare cases, more serious conditions like psoriasis, endocarditis, or nail melanoma.
To treat and prevent peeling fingernails, it is important to identify and address any underlying causes. This may include making dietary changes to include more nutrient-dense foods, taking supplements, or treating any underlying health conditions. Additionally, keeping nails moisturized, avoiding aggressive nail habits, and wearing gloves during tasks that involve prolonged contact with water can help prevent peeling.
