Liam Carter
There are many reasons why nails chip off as they grow longer. Nails are made up of multiple layers of keratin, a protein also found in hair, and can peel or split due to various internal and external factors. For example, aging, nutritional deficiencies, skin conditions, trauma to the nail, and exposure to certain chemicals can all contribute to nail chipping. While nail chipping is usually harmless, it may sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| External Trauma | Damage to the nail, such as picking at polish, biting nails, or using nails to open things |
| Manicure | Glue, nail polish, and nail polish remover can contain harsh chemicals that weaken and dry out nails |
| Diet | Iron, vitamin D, B vitamins, and calcium deficiencies can cause nail peeling |
| Age | Nails become thinner and more prone to cracking with age |
| Skin Conditions | Eczema and psoriasis can cause nail irregularities, including peeling |
| Health Conditions | Thyroid problems, anemia, and fungal infections can cause nail peeling |
| Moisture | Too much or too little moisture can cause nail peeling |
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Dietary deficiencies
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining nail health. Nails are made of a protein called keratin, which requires certain vitamins and minerals to grow strong.
One of the most common dietary deficiencies that can lead to nail chipping is a lack of iron. Iron is essential for producing healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all tissues in the body, including the nails. When the body does not receive enough iron, it can lead to a condition called anemia, which is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue and nail changes, including peeling and chipping. To increase your iron intake, incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet, such as lean meats, eggs, and vegetables. You can also take iron supplements or a multivitamin that includes iron, but be mindful of potential interactions, as excessive iron supplementation can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients like zinc.
Another nutrient deficiency that may contribute to nail chipping is a lack of biotin, a B vitamin. Biotin is important for nail growth and strength, and a deficiency can make nails more susceptible to peeling, breaking, and bending. To increase your biotin intake, eat more biotin-rich foods such as avocado, whole grains, eggs, cauliflower, lean meats, nuts, and seeds. You can also take biotin supplements, but it is important to consult with your doctor first, especially if you are pregnant.
Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies have also been associated with nail peeling. Vitamin D helps regulate the absorption of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and nails. Include vitamin D and calcium-rich foods in your diet, such as fatty fish, dairy products, and dark leafy greens. Exposure to sunlight can also help boost your vitamin D levels.
Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, stimulate collagen production and provide anti-fungal properties, which can help maintain nail health. Antioxidants, such as vitamin E, also protect the nails from damage caused by ultraviolet light.
A well-balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help ensure you are getting the necessary nutrients for strong and healthy nails. However, if dietary changes do not improve your nail health, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health conditions or nutrient deficiencies.
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Ageing
Nails are made of a protein called keratin, which protects your fingers and toes from damage. As we age, our nails may change in appearance and texture. While many of these changes are normal, some could indicate underlying health issues.
With age, nails may grow more slowly and become brittle, dull, and prone to breakage. They may also develop ridges, thicken, or become thinner. The colour may change from translucent to yellow and opaque, and they may become more vulnerable to fungal infections. Toenails may become particularly thick and ingrown toenails may be more common.
The growth rate of nails tends to decrease by about 0.5% per year from the age of 25. The average growth rate is around 3mm per month, with anywhere between 1.8mm and 4.5mm considered normal. Toenails grow about one-third to one-half as quickly as fingernails.
Some nail changes can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, including low iron, protein, biotin, calcium, fatty acid, and vitamin B levels. They can also be caused by external factors such as long-term exposure to chemicals or ultraviolet light.
Nail changes could also signal more serious health problems, including heart and lung disease, anemia, liver and kidney problems, and diabetes. If you notice significant changes in the texture, thickness, colour, or shape of your nails, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.
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Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals can cause nails to become brittle and prone to chipping and peeling. These chemicals are often found in everyday products like hand soap, sanitizers, and laundry detergent, and nail polish and its removers.
One of the main culprits is acetone, a common ingredient in nail polish remover. Acetone can be harsh, drying, and damaging to nails, cuticles, and skin. It is also used in the removal process of gel polish, which involves soaking the nails in acetone and aggressive buffing, scraping, and peeling of the polish, which can injure the nail plate and lead to severe nail brittleness and dryness.
Other chemicals of concern include formaldehyde, found in nail polish and nail hardeners, which can cause difficulty breathing, allergic reactions, and irritated eyes, skin, and throat. Formaldehyde is also recognized as a potential cancer-causing substance. Toluene, a common ingredient in nail polish and fingernail glue, can cause light-headedness, dizziness, drowsiness, and irritation to the eyes, throat, and lungs. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), found in nail polish, can cause nausea and irritation to the eyes, skin, nose, mouth, and throat.
Nail salon workers are particularly at risk of exposure to these chemicals, especially when products are used simultaneously, day after day, or in poorly ventilated spaces. The effects of exposure can range from immediate sickness to long-term health issues, including respiratory, skin, and musculoskeletal problems.
To minimize the impact of these chemicals, it is recommended to look for products labeled "hypoallergenic" or "five-free," which are typically milder or free from specific harmful ingredients. Pregnant individuals should also be cautious as exposure to certain chemicals may affect the child.
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Skin conditions
Peeling nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Eczema can cause the skin on the hands to become dry, flaky, inflamed, and prone to cracks and fissures, which can impact nail growth and appearance, leading to irregularities such as peeling nails. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is characterized by the rapid formation of skin cells, which can also affect the nails, leading to nail abnormalities.
Additionally, certain nutritional deficiencies, such as low calcium, iron, vitamin D, and B vitamin deficiencies, can contribute to nail peeling. In particular, iron deficiency anemia can cause cracked nails, and vitamin D deficiency is linked to soft nails. Addressing these deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements may help improve nail health.
Fungal infections are another potential cause of nail peeling, and they can be challenging to treat. Oral antifungal medications or prescription antifungal pills may be prescribed by a doctor to address these infections.
To strengthen nails and prevent peeling, it is recommended to use nail strengtheners or hardeners, which can provide additional nutrients and help protect the nails. Keeping the nails moisturized with oils or lotions is also beneficial, as it helps to prevent brittleness and dryness. Avoiding prolonged exposure to water and wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves during household chores can help maintain nail health.
While less common, underlying medical conditions such as thyroid problems or cancer treatment can also contribute to nail peeling. If nail peeling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for further evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.
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Trauma to the nail
Nail bed injuries are common, with fingertip injuries being the most frequently seen type of hand injury. This is because the fingertip is the most distal portion of the upper extremities and is the point of interaction between the body and its surroundings in most daily activities. The peak incidence of fingertip and nail bed injuries is from 4 to 30 years of age.
Nails can also be damaged by certain chemicals, such as those found in adhesives for gel or acrylic nails, hand soap, sanitizers, and laundry detergent. These chemicals can dry out nails and make them prone to peeling.
To treat nail trauma, it is recommended to keep nails moisturized and to minimize prolonged exposure to water. Cotton-lined rubber gloves can be worn when performing household chores that involve water. In the case of a nail bed injury, a doctor will likely examine the nail closely and may take X-rays to look for broken bones that require treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails are made of multiple tough layers of keratin that can peel and weaken, causing them to chip and split. This can be caused by various factors, including:
A diet lacking in calcium, iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins like biotin can cause your nails to become brittle and prone to chipping. Additionally, activities such as frequent hand washing, household chores involving water, and the use of nail polish and removers with strong chemicals can contribute to nail damage.
Yes, in some cases, nail chipping can be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as thyroid problems, anemia, fungal infections, eczema, or psoriasis. If you suspect any of these conditions, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or a medical professional for further advice and treatment options.
