Caleb Foster
Nails can rip when cut due to a variety of reasons, including nutritional deficiencies, underlying illnesses, and fungal infections. Additionally, external factors such as exposure to water, frequent use of nail polish and polish remover, and improper cutting techniques can contribute to nail ripping. To prevent nails from ripping, it is recommended to maintain proper nail care, including keeping nails trimmed, washing and moisturizing hands, and avoiding harsh nail products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Repeated wetting and drying of the nails, exposure to harsh nail products and chemicals, underlying medical problems, nail injury, age, iron-deficiency, certain illnesses, fungal infection |
| Prevention | Keep nails clean and dry, use nail oil or hand lotion, avoid harsh nail products, wear gloves when washing dishes or doing housework, take biotin supplements, maintain a healthy diet, trim nails regularly |
| Treatment | Cut away torn part, file rough edges, buy a repair kit, see a dermatologist, take prescription antifungal medication, apply urea cream or mineral oil before bed and wear cotton gloves |
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What You'll Learn
Your nails might be brittle due to frequent wetting and drying
Your nails might be ripping when you cut them because they are brittle, and this could be due to frequent wetting and drying. This condition is called onychoschizia, which is characterised by horizontal splits across the width of the nail plate. It is often accompanied by another condition called onychorrhexis, which causes longitudinal splits or ridges in the nail plate. Together, these conditions are sometimes referred to as "brittle nails".
Frequent wetting and drying of the hands is the most common cause of brittle nails. This is because the repeated process of wetting and drying strips the nails of their moisture, causing them to become dry and brittle. Occupations or activities that require frequent hand washing or exposure to water, such as washing dishes, can increase the risk of brittle nails. Additionally, people in professions that involve working with chemicals may also be more susceptible to this issue.
To prevent brittle nails caused by frequent wetting and drying, it is recommended to wear gloves when performing tasks that involve water or chemicals, such as cleaning or washing dishes. This helps to protect the nails from excessive moisture and potential damage from harsh chemicals. It is also important to keep your nails and hands moisturised. Applying thick moisturisers or petroleum jelly can improve nail hydration and reduce brittleness.
Additionally, proper nail care practices can help strengthen your nails. This includes keeping your nails trimmed and maintaining their cleanliness. Using nail-hardening agents containing formaldehyde can increase nail strength, but these should be used cautiously as they may also cause brittleness if overused. It is also recommended to avoid nail cosmetics and procedures that can weaken and dry out your nails, such as nail polish, polish removers, and acrylic nails.
Underlying medical conditions, such as iron deficiency, thyroid problems, or anaemia, can also contribute to brittle nails. If you suspect any of these conditions, it is important to consult a medical professional for advice and appropriate treatment. They may recommend dietary changes or supplements to address any nutrient deficiencies that could be contributing to the problem.
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Yeast or mould infections could be the cause
Yeast or mould infections, known as onychomycosis, can cause nails to become brittle and more prone to cracking or breaking. Candida, a type of yeast that normally exists in the human body, can sometimes multiply out of control, leading to an infection. This often occurs in warm and humid environments, causing yeast to thrive and potentially infect the nails.
Fungal infections of the nails, or onychomycosis, can be challenging to treat. Typically, a doctor will prescribe antifungal medication or, in severe cases, may have to remove the affected nail. To prevent yeast infections, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices, keeping the skin and nails clean and dry. This includes changing out of sweaty or wet clothing, regularly washing with soap, and ensuring proper drying.
When visiting a nail salon, it is advisable to select a reputable establishment with high hygiene standards to minimise the risk of bacterial or fungal transmission. In public areas like pools and showers, wearing flip-flops can provide an additional barrier against potential infections. For individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, it is crucial to consult a doctor at the first sign of any nail infection.
To strengthen nails and prevent cracking, it is recommended to cut nails straight across, slightly round the tips, and maintain proper nail and hand moisturisation. Avoiding harsh nail products, such as nail polish and nail polish remover, can also reduce the likelihood of nail damage.
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You may have iron-deficiency anaemia
Your nails may be ripping when you cut them because you have iron-deficiency anaemia. Iron deficiency can weaken the nails, making them prone to splitting, breaking, or becoming brittle. Nails affected by iron deficiency may also present as spoon-shaped, with pale or white nail beds. This is known as koilonychia, a condition where the centre of the nail becomes sunken, giving it a spoon-like appearance.
Iron-deficiency anaemia occurs when your body does not have enough iron to produce haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. Without sufficient haemoglobin, your tissues and organs do not receive an adequate oxygen supply, which can lead to the symptoms of anaemia. Your nails need oxygen to stay healthy, and oxygen transport is hindered when the body does not produce enough haemoglobin.
Iron-deficiency anaemia can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and changes in your toenails. While the classic symptom of fatigue is well-known, the condition can also manifest in more subtle ways, such as nail abnormalities. In addition to spoon-shaped nails, other signs of iron-deficiency anaemia in your nails include brittle or cracked nails, and nails lifting off the nail bed.
If you notice any of these toenail changes or suspect you may have iron-deficiency anaemia, it is important to seek medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis. A series of blood tests can be ordered to measure your haemoglobin and iron levels, as well as other markers such as ferritin and transferrin saturation, which can indicate iron deficiency. Treating iron deficiency will often result in healthy, strong nails.
To improve nail health, you can also try applying lotions or moisturisers to your nails and cuticles to prevent them from drying out. Wearing gloves while doing water-heavy tasks or chores involving chemicals can also help protect and strengthen your nails.
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Exposure to harsh chemicals could be a factor
Occupational exposure to certain chemicals can also contribute to brittle nails. This includes frequent contact with alkalis, acids, cement, solvents, thioglycolates, salt, and sugar solutions. If your work involves handling these substances, consider wearing protective gloves to minimize direct exposure to your nails and hands.
Additionally, some medical treatments and medications can affect nail health. For example, cancer treatments and oral medications containing vitamin A (retinoids) can make your nails more brittle. If you are undergoing medical treatment, consult your doctor for advice on mitigating potential nail damage.
Underlying medical conditions, such as glandular diseases, tuberculosis, Sjögren syndrome, and malnutrition, can also play a role in nail brittleness. Ensuring proper nutrition, including sufficient biotin and iron intake, can help strengthen your nails and reduce the likelihood of them ripping when cut.
To mitigate the effects of harsh chemicals and strengthen your nails, it is recommended to use nail oil or hand lotion regularly. Keeping your nails as clean and dry as possible, trimming them straight across, and rounding the tips slightly can also help prevent ripping.
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It could be linked to an underlying medical problem
Ripping nails can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Brittle nails, or onychoschizia, can be caused by repeated wetting and drying of the nails, as well as exposure to various chemicals such as nail cosmetics (hardeners, polishes, and removers/solvents). However, it can also be caused by underlying medical problems such as gland (endocrine system) diseases, tuberculosis, Sjögren syndrome, and malnutrition. People with skin diseases like lichen planus and psoriasis, as well as those taking oral medications made from vitamin A (retinoids), may also experience brittle nails.
In addition, certain vitamin deficiencies can cause nail issues. For example, spoon-shaped nails that curve inwards (koilonychia) can be a sign of iron-deficiency anaemia. Cracked nails can also be a symptom of anaemia, which can be caused by pregnancy, ulcers, or cancer. Deep lines or grooves across the fingernails (Beau's lines) may occur when you're ill but should grow out. Fingernails curving over rounded fingertips (clubbing) can also be a sign of many serious, long-term conditions.
Moreover, cancer treatment can be hard on your nails, and yeast or mould infections can enter your nails, making them more prone to cracking or breaking. If you are experiencing nail issues and suspect an underlying medical problem, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails can become brittle due to various reasons, such as aging, exposure to water, vitamin deficiency, or underlying illnesses. To prevent nails from ripping, ensure you are getting adequate vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as iron, zinc, and calcium. Keep your nails clean, dry, and moisturized, and avoid harsh nail products.
It is recommended to cut your nails straight across with sharp scissors or clippers and to avoid cutting down the edges or along the sides. Round the tips slightly and use a nail file to smooth any rough edges.
If your nail has ripped, you can cut away the torn part and file the rough edges to prevent further catching. Keep the nail bed clean and dry, and consider applying a small amount of antibiotic ointment. Cover the nail with a bandage or plaster to protect it and promote healing.
