Ava Monroe
Cracked nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, and underlying medical conditions such as anemia, psoriasis, and thyroid problems. In some cases, cracked nails may be a symptom of a more serious health issue, such as inflammatory diseases, skin cancer, or nutritional deficiencies. If you are experiencing severely cracked nails, it is important to seek medical attention, particularly if there are signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, or pain. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and can range from home remedies to prescription medications and in-office procedures. Healthcare professionals, including doctors and dermatologists, can assess the condition and recommend appropriate treatments, such as antifungal or antibiotic medications, corticosteroid injections, or lifestyle changes to prevent further nail damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Physical trauma, infection, or a condition such as psoriasis, thyroid problems, anemia, or malnutrition |
| Treatment | Home remedies, medication, or medical procedures |
| Home remedies | Using glue, or hiding with a fake nail |
| Medication | Antibiotics, antifungals, corticosteroids, or oral steroids |
| Medical procedures | Stitching the nail bed, removing the nail, or reattaching the nail with stitches or glue |
| Prevention | Avoid nail cosmetics, wear gloves, and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals |
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What You'll Learn
See a dermatologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan
If you are experiencing severely cracked finger and toe nails, it is important to see a dermatologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. A dermatologist will be able to assess the underlying cause of your nail condition and recommend appropriate medical care.
Dermatologists are medical professionals who specialize in treating conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. They can help address a range of nail concerns, including fungal infections, discoloration, brittleness, and breakage. During your visit, the dermatologist will examine your nails and may take nail clippings or perform a biopsy to distinguish between certain diseases. They may also ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and any symptoms you are experiencing.
One common condition that can cause nail cracking is a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. This occurs when fungi, such as yeast or mold, invade the nails and cause an infection, making them more susceptible to cracking or breaking. Dermatologists typically treat fungal infections with topical medications or oral antifungal pills. In severe cases, they may need to remove the affected nail to prevent the infection from spreading.
Another possible cause of nail cracking is nail psoriasis, a condition where the nails become thickened, split, or crumble. Treatment for nail psoriasis may include topical medications such as vitamin D ointments or corticosteroids. In some cases, your dermatologist may recommend phototherapy, which involves exposing the nails to a special light. If you are experiencing severe nail psoriasis, they may suggest corticosteroid injections into the nail unit to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
Additionally, cracked nails can sometimes be a sign of more serious underlying health issues. For example, discoloration of the nails can indicate conditions such as eczema or even cancer of the skin of the nail unit. A dermatologist will be able to assess for these conditions and refer you for further testing or treatment if needed.
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Avoid nail products with harsh chemicals
If you have severely cracked nails, it is important to avoid nail products with harsh chemicals. While nail polish and nail treatments can be fun and help you feel good about your appearance, some of the chemicals in these products can be harmful to your health and further damage your nails.
Nail polish and nail polish removers often contain strong chemicals that can weaken and dry out your nails, making them more prone to cracking and breaking. For example, acetone-based nail polish removers can be harsh, drying, and damaging to the nail plate, skin, and cuticles. Other chemicals found in nail polish and nail polish removers include butyl acetate, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and toluene, which can cause headaches, irritated eyes, skin, nose, mouth, and throat. Toluene is also being phased out of nail products due to its potential health risks.
Additionally, the glues and dyes in acrylic nails can cause an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis. The application and removal processes of acrylic nails can also be harsh and damaging to the nail plate and cuticle. Artificial nail products may contain methyl methacrylate monomer, which has been associated with fingernail damage and deformity.
To protect your nail health, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients in your nail products and opt for less toxic alternatives. Read the ingredient labels and look for products that are recognized as being safer and healthier, such as those with the "Healthy Nail Salon Recognition" in California. You can also take preventive measures, such as wearing gloves while doing chores and avoiding prolonged exposure to hot water, to further reduce the risk of nail damage.
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Preventative measures include wearing gloves
Wearing gloves is a simple yet effective way to prevent fingernail and toenail cracks. Gloves act as a protective barrier, safeguarding your nails from potential damage caused by various factors. This is especially important if your work involves frequent hand washing, submerging your hands in water, or handling chemicals. By wearing gloves, you can reduce the impact of these activities on your nails and lower the risk of cracking.
For instance, if your job requires you to wash dishes or perform other tasks that keep your hands in water for extended periods, gloves can be a lifesaver. Water exposure can cause nails to become brittle and more prone to cracking. By donning gloves, you create a protective layer that shields your nails from excessive moisture, helping to maintain their strength and integrity. This is also beneficial if you work with chemicals, as gloves provide a barrier against harsh substances that can irritate and damage your nails.
Additionally, wearing gloves can help prevent physical trauma to your nails. Minor injuries, such as catching your nail in a door or pinching it under an object, can lead to nail cracks. Gloves act as a form of armour, reducing the chances of such incidents and providing a physical barrier against potential trauma. This is especially relevant for those who work with their hands, as gloves can offer a measure of protection against nail damage.
Moreover, wearing gloves can help address vitamin deficiencies that may contribute to nail cracking. If you suspect that your diet lacks certain essential vitamins, wearing gloves can be a reminder to take the necessary supplements or make dietary adjustments. By protecting your nails while your body absorbs the required nutrients, you give your nails the best chance to strengthen and recover. This combination of lifestyle measures can effectively reduce the occurrence of nail cracks.
In conclusion, wearing gloves is a practical and proactive approach to nail care. By donning gloves during chores, avoiding harsh chemicals, and taking the necessary dietary precautions, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of nail cracks. This simple habit can contribute to the overall health and resilience of your nails, serving as a foundational step in nail care and maintenance. Remember to pair glove-wearing with other healthy habits, such as moisturising and avoiding harsh nail products, for optimal nail health.
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Biotin supplements can promote nail health
Severely cracked finger and toe nails can be treated by a doctor or a dermatologist. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition, which could be a fungal infection, yeast or mould, or a skin condition such as psoriasis or a thyroid problem.
Biotin supplements are generally considered safe, but they may cause mild side effects such as an upset stomach. It is always best to speak to a doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant. In addition to supplements, there are other ways to improve nail health, such as avoiding prolonged exposure to hot water, and harsh chemicals like nail polish and nail polish remover, which can weaken and dry out nails.
If you are experiencing severely cracked nails, it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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See a doctor if the nail bed is affected
If a nail is severely split, causing constant pain, or appears infected, it is important to seek medical attention to address any underlying issues and treat the nail. While many nail bed injuries are minor and can be treated at home, some require prompt medical attention to ensure the nail grows back smoothly.
If the nail bed is affected, a doctor may need to remove the nail completely. They may also stitch the nail bed, and if possible, reattach the nail using stitches or glue. If the nail is damaged or torn, a doctor will likely remove it and repair the nail bed. If the nail bed matrix, the area at the base that produces new nails, is damaged, doctors may also remove part or all of the nail.
A severe subungual hematoma, a type of nail bed injury that looks like a bruise, may be treated by a doctor draining the pooling blood through a small hole in the nail. This procedure is known as trephination. However, if the nail is damaged, a doctor will not perform this method. If the collected blood covers more than half of the nail bed, the doctor will likely remove the nail and repair the nail bed and matrix.
If you suspect an infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Signs of an infection include swelling, redness, or skin that is hot to the touch. A doctor will likely prescribe antifungal or antibiotic treatments to address the infection and prevent further damage to the nails.
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Frequently asked questions
If your nails are severely cracked, it is important to seek medical attention to fix the nail and address any potential underlying issues. You should see a doctor or dermatologist who can suggest a treatment plan.
There are many causes of nail cracking, including physical trauma, infection, and conditions such as psoriasis, thyroid problems, and anemia. Nails can also crack due to frequent exposure to water, harsh nail products, and aging.
Symptoms of a nail infection, or paronychia, can include swelling, redness, or skin that is hot to the touch. A nail infection can also cause the skin around the nail to crack.
Nail infections are usually treated with antibiotics or antifungal medications, depending on the type of infection. In some cases, the nail may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading.
To prevent nail cracking, avoid prolonged exposure to water, harsh chemicals, and nail products with strong chemicals such as toluene and formaldehyde. Maintaining a healthy diet and taking biotin supplements with a doctor's consent can also help promote nail health.
