Liam Carter
There are many reasons why nails split, and it is a common problem that can happen to anyone. Nails can split vertically or horizontally, and this can be caused by ageing, pregnancy, nail polish, injuries, and even skin conditions like psoriasis. Nail splitting can also be a sign of a nail infection or an underlying medical condition, such as a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Overexposure to moisture can also cause nails to become weak and brittle, making them easier to split.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail shape | Horizontal, vertical, or longitudinal splits |
| Nail condition | Brittle, weak, dry, thin, peeling, cracked, discoloured, thickened, crumbly |
| Cause | Ageing, injury, nail biting, nail picking, nail polish, nail polish remover, nail glue, frequent wetting and drying, overexposure to moisture, dehydration, vitamin or mineral deficiency, nutrient deficiency, wear and tear, physical stress, skin conditions (e.g. psoriasis, eczema, lichen planus), fungal/bacterial/yeast infections, medical conditions, medication, pregnancy, iron deficiency, low biotin levels, calcium deficiency |
| Prevention/Treatment | Use moisturizer, nail hardening products, Vaseline/petroleum jelly, bandages, soak in saline water, manicure gently, avoid nail bed, avoid metal, avoid long exposure to water, wear gloves, refrain from biting/picking nails, avoid acetone-based nail polish remover, avoid nail products with toluene and formaldehyde, use lotion with lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acid, clear nail polish, nail glue, urea cream, mineral oil, lotion |
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What You'll Learn
Vitamin deficiencies
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause brown-grey nail discolouration. White nails can be the result of anaemia, which is caused by low iron levels. Pink or red nails may suggest malnutrition with several nutrient and vitamin deficiencies. Biotin deficiency can increase the risk of fungal nail infections and subsequent nail plate discolouration.
Low iron, biotin, and calcium levels can weaken nails and make them softer. Soft, weak nails can crack and break more easily. They are also drier and may peel or split at the edges. Nails that are flatter than usual can have a spoon-shaped appearance. This is called koilonychia and it is a sign of a vitamin deficiency. Low iron and vitamin C levels can cause nails to develop a spoon shape.
Vitamin supplements can correct vitamin deficiencies and help nails grow back strong and healthy.
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Skin conditions
Moreover, fungal infections in the nail bed can damage the nail by destroying keratin, leading to nail splitting. This is known as onychomycosis, which develops when ringworm infects the nails.
Additionally, vitamin and mineral deficiencies can make your nails prone to splitting. Low levels of biotin, calcium, and iron are all linked to nail changes, including splitting. Biotin is a B vitamin supplement that can help heal your nails. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women.
Furthermore, frequent wetting and drying of the nails can lead to nail splitting. This is common in occupations that require frequent hand washing or exposure to chemicals. The repeated wetting and drying weaken the nails, making them brittle and prone to splitting.
Finally, certain medications can also cause nail splitting. If you suspect that your medication is causing nail issues, consult your healthcare provider to discuss alternative options.
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Nail injuries
If the nail is cut or torn, it may be possible to treat the injury at home if you can stop the bleeding quickly. Removing any jewellery from the injured hand is important, as swelling may cause rings to become stuck. If the nail is not cut or torn and is still attached to the nail bed, home treatment may be possible.
For more serious nail injuries, urgent medical care may be required. Medical professionals will stop the bleeding and clean the wound, usually numbing the area with medicine before treatment. If there is a large bruise, a small hole may be created in the nail to allow blood and fluid to drain out, relieving pressure and pain. In some cases, the nail may need to be removed, and the nail bed may require stitches. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.
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Ageing
The texture of the nail plate can also change with age, becoming progressively rougher and leading to fissuring, splitting, and longitudinal striations. Nails may also exhibit colour changes, with a yellow to grey discoloration being the most common observation. Nails are made of a protein called keratin, which is produced in lower quantities as we age, leading to thinner nails that break easily.
Additionally, ageing can cause a decrease in the longitudinal curvature of the nail plate and an increase in transverse convexity. These changes in the contour of the nail plate can further contribute to nail splitting. While nail splitting due to ageing is common, it is important to note that it may also be a sign of underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies.
To help prevent nail splitting due to ageing, it is recommended to keep nails moisturized, especially after washing hands or doing chores that involve water. Using creams, mineral oil, or lotions can help maintain nail health. Wearing gloves while doing household chores or going out in cold weather can also protect nails from drying out and splitting. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and taking supplements like biotin, collagen, and calcium can also support nail strength and growth.
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Moisture
Overexposure to moisture can cause nails to become weak and brittle, making them more prone to breaking, bending, or splitting. This can occur during activities such as washing dishes, frequent handwashing, or repeated nail polish use. Occupations that require frequent wetting and drying of the hands or exposure to chemicals can also increase the risk of brittle nails.
To prevent moisture-related nail splitting, it is recommended to reduce the frequency of wetting and drying the nails. Wearing gloves, especially cotton-lined rubber gloves, while performing tasks that involve water, such as household chores, can provide protection. Keeping nails trimmed short and using thick moisturizers or petroleum jelly can also help improve nail hydration and reduce the likelihood of splitting.
Additionally, avoiding nail polish and nail polish remover containing harsh chemicals like toluene and formaldehyde can help prevent dehydration and weakening of the nails. It is also important to refrain from biting or picking at the nails, as this can introduce stress and increase the risk of splitting.
By following these measures, individuals can reduce the occurrence of nail splitting due to moisture exposure and maintain healthier and stronger nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails are made of layers of a protein called keratin. When nails split, some of the keratin layers separate from the rest, causing the nail to look like it's splitting or peeling. Nails can split horizontally (a condition known as onychoschizia) or vertically (onychorrhexis).
Common causes of nail splitting include aging, nail biting, nail polish, nail polish remover, injuries, and skin conditions like psoriasis.
As you age, your nails become thinner and more prone to cracking and splitting.
Nail polish and nail polish remover contain strong chemicals that can weaken and dry out your nails, making them more likely to crack and split.
Skin conditions like psoriasis can cause nails to thicken, crumble, or split. About 40-50% of people with psoriasis experience nail symptoms.
To prevent nail splitting, keep your nails clean, moisturized, and trimmed. Avoid biting or picking at your nails, and wear gloves when exposing your hands to water or chemicals.
