Liam Carter
There are many reasons why your fingernails might peel in layers. Generally, nail peeling occurs when cell-to-cell adhesion is disrupted, causing the layers of compacted cells to separate. This can be caused by something as simple as using your nails as tools or picking off nail polish, or it can be indicative of an underlying medical condition such as an iron deficiency or underactive thyroid. If you are uncertain about the cause of your peeling nails, it is recommended that you seek professional guidance from a medical hand specialist or dermatologist.
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What You'll Learn
Vitamin deficiency
Peeling nails can be caused by various factors, including external trauma to the nail, such as using your nails as tools, removing acrylic nails forcefully, or overexposure to moisture. However, vitamin deficiency is also a common cause of peeling nails, and it is important to address any potential nutritional deficiencies to maintain healthy nails.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause peeling nails. This is because vitamins and minerals contribute to the growth and strength of the nail's keratin, the protein responsible for nail tissue. Nails are made of multiple layers of keratin, a protective fibrous protein also found in hair and skin. When there is a breakdown of cell-to-cell adhesion in the nail, the layers separate and peel.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can cause nail peeling include:
- Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency, or anaemia, is a common cause of peeling nails. It can cause the nails to appear concave, either horizontally or vertically, in a condition called spoon nails. Iron is essential for nail health, and a deficiency can lead to thin, fragile nails that are susceptible to damage.
- Low calcium: Calcium is necessary for strong nails, and a deficiency can lead to nail peeling.
- Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D plays a role in nail health, and insufficient levels can contribute to peeling nails.
- B vitamin deficiency: B vitamins, particularly biotin, are important for nail health. Biotin helps strengthen the keratin in nails, and a deficiency can lead to peeling.
If you suspect that your nail peeling is due to a vitamin or mineral deficiency, it is recommended to address this through dietary changes or supplements. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and iron-rich foods can help improve nail health. Additionally, drinking plenty of water is essential, as dehydration can also contribute to nail peeling.
It is worth noting that nail issues are often not a cause for concern and can be treated at home. However, if you are concerned or if the problem persists, it is advisable to consult a medical professional, such as a dermatologist, who can help identify any underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatments or supplements.
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External trauma
Excess exposure to moisture can also cause nail peeling. This can be caused by repeatedly getting the nails wet and then drying them, or by soaking the nails in water for long periods, such as when performing household chores.
Harsh chemicals and strong soaps can also cause nails to peel. These products are designed to remove oil and grease and, in the process, they can remove the protective natural oils from your nails, causing the layers and coating of the nail to break down.
To prevent nail peeling caused by external trauma, you can:
- Wear gloves when using harsh chemicals or doing water-heavy tasks.
- Apply Vaseline or a hydrating cream that contains urea after every hand wash.
- Moisturize your nails by applying lotion after any activity that might dry them out.
- Use a gentle, acetone-free nail polish remover.
- Ask your manicurist to leave your protective cuticles in place and not to buff your nails too much.
- Apply a strengthening top coat between manicures.
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Manicures and adhesives
Manicures can be a cause of nail peeling. The application of nail polish and adhesives can lead to nail damage and peeling. This is especially true if the nail polish is forcibly removed by the wearer, rather than by a nail technician. To minimise damage, it is recommended to leave protective cuticles in place and avoid over-buffing the nails. Applying a strengthening top coat can also help to prevent peeling.
The type of manicure can also influence the likelihood of nail peeling. Gel manicures, for example, should be removed by a nail technician to avoid potential damage. If you are having issues with your natural nail, it is recommended to take a two-week break from polish to restore the virgin keratin for adhesion purposes.
Dip powder manicures are an alternative to traditional acrylic nails and gel polish. They are applied by dipping the nails into a coloured powder or pouring the powder over the nails, and then sealing with layers of adhesive. Unlike traditional manicures, dip powder manicures do not require drying time or UV/LED lights. The use of moisture from water or oil can cause lifting and shorten the lifespan of a dip powder manicure.
Press-on nails are another DIY manicure option that uses glue or adhesive tabs to attach artificial nails to the natural nail. The type of adhesive used will determine how long the manicure will last. Strong-hold nail glue, for example, can make press-on nails last for up to two weeks. However, it is important to remove press-on nails carefully to avoid damage to the natural nail.
In addition to manicures, external factors such as frequent hand-washing, exposure to chemical solvents or strong soaps, and the use of harsh cleaning products can contribute to nail peeling. Wearing gloves when handling harsh chemicals and applying moisturising products after hand-washing can help mitigate these effects.
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Lack of exfoliation
To address this, you can use an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliator, such as glycolic acid, which has been shown to effectively exfoliate nails and encourage the growth of new cells. It is important to be gentle when exfoliating, as nails are delicate and can be damaged easily. In addition to exfoliation, keeping your nails moisturised is crucial for preventing nail peeling. A suitable moisturiser can help to create a protective barrier for your nails, locking in moisture and preventing dryness, which is a common cause of peeling.
If you are experiencing persistent nail peeling, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist, who can examine your nails under a microscope to identify any underlying causes and provide tailored advice. They may also recommend specific products or treatments to address the issue. It is important to be patient and consistent with your nail care routine, as it may take time to see improvements in nail health.
Additionally, it is worth noting that while lack of exfoliation can be a contributing factor to nail peeling, there are also other potential causes. These include external factors such as trauma to the nail, frequent exposure to water, the use of harsh chemicals, and internal factors like vitamin deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, or underlying health conditions. Therefore, it is important to consider various factors and seek professional advice if needed to address nail peeling effectively.
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Exposure to chemicals
To prevent this, you can take the following steps:
- Wear gloves when performing tasks that involve prolonged exposure to water or chemicals.
- Use mild or natural chemical agents that are less harsh on your nails when choosing nail products, soaps, and detergents. Look for products labeled "hypoallergenic."
- Apply a strengthening topcoat between manicures to minimize damage.
- Avoid buffing your nails, as this can remove the most valuable layer of the nail plate, making them more prone to peeling.
- Keep your nails moisturized by using a moisturizer or nail oil.
If you are experiencing sudden and persistent peeling that does not improve with home remedies, it is advisable to consult a medical hand specialist, dermatologist, or primary care physician. They can help identify any underlying causes and provide guidance on nail care.
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Frequently asked questions
Fingernails can peel due to various reasons, including trauma to the nail, frequent exposure to water, and certain underlying health conditions, such as an underactive thyroid or iron deficiency.
At-home treatments for peeling fingernails include increasing your daily iron intake through spinach, supplements, or iron-rich foods, and keeping your nails moisturized with oils or lotions.
To prevent fingernails from peeling, it is recommended to minimize prolonged exposure to water, wear rubber gloves when doing household chores that involve water, and use a simple base coat nail varnish or nail strengthener.
The symptoms of a severe iron deficiency may include peeling nails, and without treatment, it may lead to anemia. Other symptoms of anemia include fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.
If your peeling fingernails are accompanied by other symptoms or are not responding to home remedies, it is recommended to seek professional guidance from a medical hand specialist or dermatologist.
