Isla Bennett
Peeling nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including iron deficiency, dehydration, vitamin deficiency, and underlying health conditions such as an underactive thyroid or lung disease. Trauma to the nail, such as nail-biting, picking at nail polish, or improper removal of artificial nails, can also lead to peeling. While peeling nails are generally treatable at home, it is important to seek medical advice if they are accompanied by other symptoms or if the issue persists. At-home treatments include increasing iron intake, using cuticle oil or nail hardeners, and keeping nails moisturized.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Causes | Trauma to the nail, nail polish, filing the nail too much, wearing false nails, malnutrition, dehydration, vitamin deficiency, medication side effects, underlying nail infections, iron deficiency, certain underlying health conditions, exposure to water, exposure to chemicals, general wear and tear of polish and manicures |
| Treatments | Increase iron intake, keep nails moisturized, use cuticle oil, use collagen, modify diet, use nail hardeners, use biotin, use coconut oil, use acetone-free nail polish remover, trim nails after showering, wear gloves when performing chores involving water, avoid nail-biting, avoid opening cans with nails, avoid picking off nail polish, avoid pressing on nails |
| When to see a doctor | If peeling nails are painful or bleeding, if toenails are also peeling, if there are other symptoms of more severe conditions, if there are symptoms of anemia |
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What You'll Learn
- Peeling nails can be a result of dehydration, malnutrition, or vitamin deficiency
- Avoid nail-biting and picking at nail polish to prevent peeling
- Use a nail hardener to support and protect nails from peeling
- Keep nails moisturised with oils such as coconut, jojoba, almond, or olive oil
- Consult a doctor if you suspect an underlying medical condition or if your nails are painful or bleeding
Peeling nails can be a result of dehydration, malnutrition, or vitamin deficiency
Peeling nails can be unsightly and uncomfortable, and the condition, known as onychoschizia, may have several causes. Nails are made of a protective fibrous protein called keratin, which also occurs in skin and hair. When external trauma or an underlying health condition affects the nails, the keratin layers can become thin and peel away, leaving the nails looking and feeling thin, sensitive, and uncomfortable.
One possible cause of peeling nails is dehydration. Drinking water regularly may help prevent this. People can become dehydrated if they do not drink enough water or other non-caffeinated beverages. If you have severe dehydration, you may need to seek medical attention and receive intravenous fluids in a hospital.
Another cause of peeling nails could be malnutrition or a vitamin deficiency. Dr. Sara Norris, a naturopathic doctor based in Los Angeles, explains that "brittle, weak, and peeling nails are the most common concerns I see in my practice, and these symptoms are more often the result of a poor diet than of systemic disease." Iron deficiency is a common cause of nail peeling, and increasing your intake of iron-rich foods or taking supplements may help. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements. Additionally, vitamin B and calcium deficiencies may be factors, and taking a multivitamin that includes these nutrients may be beneficial.
Underlying health conditions, such as an underactive thyroid, can also cause nail peeling. If you suspect your nail peeling is related to an underlying health condition, it is important to consult a medical professional for advice and treatment.
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Avoid nail-biting and picking at nail polish to prevent peeling
Peeling nails can be caused by various factors, including iron deficiency, dehydration, and underlying health conditions such as an underactive thyroid. While nail-biting does not directly cause peeling nails, it can lead to other nail issues that may contribute to peeling, such as infections. Additionally, picking at nail polish can also cause nail damage and peeling.
To prevent nail-biting and picking at nail polish, several strategies can be employed:
- Apply bitter-tasting nail polish: A no-bite nail polish with a bitter taste can help deter nail-biting. Mavala Stop is a popular option that has helped many people break their nail-biting habit. The bitter taste discourages people from putting their fingers near their mouths.
- Keep nails trimmed short: Short nails can make it more difficult to bite them and can also reduce the temptation to bite.
- Identify triggers: Understand the physical and emotional triggers that lead to nail-biting. Physical triggers may include the presence of hangnails, while emotional triggers could be boredom, stress, or anxiety. By recognizing these triggers, you can develop a plan to avoid or manage them effectively.
- Replace the habit: Instead of biting your nails, try redirecting the habit by using a stress ball, fidget toy, or pick pad to keep your hands busy and away from your mouth.
- Cover nails with tape or gloves: Covering your nails with tape or wearing gloves can serve as a physical barrier and reminder to avoid biting your nails.
- Keep nails looking neat and well-maintained: When your nails look nice, you may be less likely to bite them. Consider investing in regular manicures or nail treatments to maintain their appearance.
- Exfoliate and moisturize: Removing any damage by exfoliating can promote healthy nails. Additionally, keeping your nails moisturized can help prevent peeling. Coconut oil is a recommended natural moisturizer.
It is important to note that breaking the nail-biting habit may take time and consistency. Being mindful of the behavior and recognizing the potential health risks associated with nail-biting can help motivate you to stop. Additionally, if you suspect that your peeling nails are related to iron deficiency or other nutritional deficiencies, consult a doctor or consider taking supplements to address the underlying cause.
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Use a nail hardener to support and protect nails from peeling
Using a nail hardener is an effective way to support and protect nails from peeling. Nail strengtheners create a protective barrier on the nail, acting as an additional layer of protection for your nail plate. This helps to prevent damage and can seal in moisture.
Nail hardeners are available at most drugstores and come in various formulas. Some are designed to simply harden the nail, while others are formulated with nutrient-rich ingredients to offer additional benefits like moisturising, strengthening, and protecting. For example, Londontown's Nail Hardener and Base Coat is made with rapeseed oil, vitamins A and E, and biotin, which leaves nails hydrated and nourished.
When choosing a nail hardener, it is important to select a product that is safe and non-toxic. Dr Lipner recommends steering clear of products that contain formaldehyde or formalin. Instead, look for products containing ingredients such as wheat protein, keratin, and biotin, which are proven to enhance nail health and promote healthy nail growth.
To use a nail hardener effectively, follow these steps:
- Remove any nail polish from your nails.
- Wash your hands, paying close attention to your nails and ensuring they are clean and dry.
- Apply the nail hardener to your nails, just as you would apply nail polish.
- Allow the nail hardener to dry completely.
- Reapply the product consistently for a few months to see the best results. The nail growth cycle lasts about 8 to 10 weeks, so be patient!
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Keep nails moisturised with oils such as coconut, jojoba, almond, or olive oil
Keeping your nails moisturised is essential for preventing them from peeling. Oils such as coconut, jojoba, almond, and olive oil are excellent choices for this purpose.
Coconut oil is rich in nutrients, including carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, which are highly beneficial for nail health. It is also a natural anti-fungal agent, making it effective against toenail fungus. To use coconut oil, simply rub a small amount directly onto your cuticles and nails and let it penetrate for at least 30 minutes. You can leave it on for longer if desired, as the oil will continue to strengthen and moisturise your nails and the skin around them.
Jojoba oil is another excellent choice for moisturising your nails. It is rich in vitamin E, which makes it a great moisturiser, and it also has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, its similarity to the sebum produced by the body allows it to be absorbed deeply into the nail. Before applying nail polish, ensure that your nails are clean and dry, and apply jojoba oil to your cuticles and nails. Let the oil absorb fully before polishing, as it will prevent the polish from adhering properly if it is still wet. For best results, apply jojoba oil before bed to give it ample time to soak in and work its magic.
Almond oil is another natural remedy that can help strengthen and beautify your nails and cuticles. To use almond oil, start by cleaning your nails thoroughly. Apply a small amount of pure almond oil to each nail and gently massage it in. For an intensive treatment, create a soothing almond oil soak by adding a few drops of almond oil to a bowl of warm water. Soak your nails for 10-15 minutes, allowing the oil to penetrate and hydrate your nails and cuticles. For best results, leave the oil on overnight.
Olive oil is an inexpensive and effective home remedy for improving nail and cuticle health. It is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that promote nail growth and strengthen nails. To use olive oil, simply soak your nails in the oil for 15 to 30 minutes once a week. For an overnight treatment, mix olive oil with lemon juice, massage the mixture into your nails, and leave it on overnight. Wash it off with lukewarm water the next day.
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Consult a doctor if you suspect an underlying medical condition or if your nails are painful or bleeding
Peeling nails are usually not a cause for concern and can be treated at home. However, if you suspect an underlying medical condition or if your nails are painful or bleeding, it is important to consult a doctor.
If your fingernails and toenails are peeling, it could indicate an internal cause, such as a vitamin or iron deficiency. In some cases, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition, such as an underactive thyroid or lung disease. If you suspect that your peeling nails are related to an underlying medical condition, it is important to seek medical advice. A doctor can help determine the cause of your peeling nails and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Additionally, if your peeling nails are accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to mention these to your doctor. For example, if you are experiencing dehydration, which can be caused by not drinking enough water or consuming too many caffeinated beverages, your doctor may recommend increasing your fluid intake or making lifestyle changes to prevent dehydration.
In some cases, peeling nails can be a sign of anemia, which is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen around the body. If you suspect that your peeling nails are related to anemia or another underlying medical condition, it is important to seek medical advice.
Moreover, if your nails are painful or bleeding, it is best to seek urgent medical care. This could indicate an infection or other serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.
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Frequently asked questions
Some at-home treatments for peeling fingernails include increasing your daily iron intake with spinach, supplements, or biotin and keeping your nails moisturized with oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, or safflower oil. It is also recommended to avoid nail-biting, gently remove nail polish with an acetone-based remover, and trim your nails after showering.
Peeling fingernails can be caused by various factors such as trauma to the nail, vitamin deficiency, dehydration, malnutrition, medication side effects, underlying health conditions, or improper removal of nail enhancements like acrylics, gel manicures, or harsh nail polish removers.
If your peeling nails are accompanied by other symptoms or are painful and bleeding, it is recommended to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying health conditions.
