Liam Carter
Split nails, also known as onychoschizia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical injury, frequent exposure to water, underlying medical conditions, vitamin deficiencies, and the use of certain nail products. While most split nails will heal over time as your nails grow out, there are several treatments available to speed up the process, such as using nail glue, clear nail polish, or fake nails to mend or hide the split. In more severe cases, medical attention may be required to address potential infections or underlying health issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Physical stress, nutrient deficiency, wear and tear, nail injury, aging, exposure to water, underlying illnesses, frequent use of nail polish, fungal infection, yeast infection, bacterial infection, psoriasis, vitamin deficiency, nail fungus, anemia, nail disease, medication, nail cosmetics, nail injury, diabetes, weak immune system |
| Treatment | Home remedies, medical treatment, nail-hardening solution, soak in saline water, bandage, petroleum jelly, nail wraps, tea bag, gel and silk wrap, biotin supplements, vitamin D derivative, biologic medication, nail-hardening agents, moisturizers, lotions, gloves, clear nail polish, nail glue, antifungal medication, corticosteroids, retinoids, collagen peptides |
| Prevention | Maintaining a healthy diet, wearing gloves, avoiding harsh chemicals, avoiding nail cosmetics, keeping nails trimmed, washing and moisturizing hands, avoiding nail products with harsh chemicals, using lotion after washing hands, applying urea cream or mineral oil |
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What You'll Learn
- Home remedies can temporarily fix a split nail
- Psoriasis, fungal infections, and nutrient deficiencies can cause nail splitting
- Nail cosmetics and frequent exposure to water can weaken nails
- Ageing nails become more fragile and prone to splitting
- See a doctor if you have frequent nail splits or signs of infection
Home remedies can temporarily fix a split nail
One common home remedy involves using glue to reattach the nail. This method involves applying a small amount of adhesive to the detached nail and using gentle pressure to push it back together. After the glue has dried, the person can paint their nail to hide the break. However, it is important to use caution when choosing an adhesive, as some glues, such as super glue, can irritate the skin.
Another home remedy is to use a tea bag to cover the crack. This involves cutting a small piece of a tea bag and gluing it to the nail using clear nail polish. Once the glue is dry, the nail can be buffed and painted if desired.
Nail wraps are also an effective home remedy for split nails. These wraps are thin coverings that can be cut to fit the size of the nail split and are sealed in place with glue or gel nail resin. Nail wraps help to strengthen the nail and prevent further breakage.
In some cases, a person may choose to use a fake nail as a temporary fix for a split nail. This can involve either removing the splitting part of the natural nail or leaving it in place and applying a fake nail on top. Fake nails can help to hide the damage and protect the natural nail until it grows out.
While these home remedies can provide temporary relief, it is important to address any underlying causes of nail splitting, such as nutrient deficiencies, frequent exposure to water, or underlying health conditions. Preventative measures, such as wearing gloves during chores and avoiding harsh nail products, can also help reduce the occurrence of split nails.
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Psoriasis, fungal infections, and nutrient deficiencies can cause nail splitting
Split nails, also known as onychoschizia, can be caused by various factors, including physical stress, frequent use of nail polish, and nutrient deficiencies. Among the various causes of nail splitting, psoriasis, fungal infections, and nutrient deficiencies are the most common.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin and nails. It causes outbreaks of red, scaly areas and plaques on the skin, and can lead to nail thickening, crumbling, or splitting. Nail psoriasis often occurs in individuals with general psoriasis, and it tends to affect fingernails more frequently than toenails. Certain medications used to treat psoriasis can weaken the immune system, making it easier for fungal infections to take hold.
Fungal infections, such as nail fungus or onychomycosis, can also contribute to nail splitting. Fungi, including mold, yeast, and mildew, can invade the nail bed, causing nail discoloration, darkening, and a foul odor. In some cases, fungal infections may co-occur with nail psoriasis, leading to similar symptoms and requiring distinct treatments for each condition.
Additionally, nutrient deficiencies can play a role in nail splitting. Vitamins and minerals are essential for nail health, and deficiencies in vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium, can impact nail strength and appearance. Maintaining a healthy diet and taking supplements, such as biotin (with a doctor's consent), can promote nail health and reduce splitting.
It is important to note that other factors, such as age, exposure to water, and certain underlying illnesses, can also contribute to nail splitting. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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Nail cosmetics and frequent exposure to water can weaken nails
Nails are made up of layers of keratin, which is also the protein that hair is made of. Healthy nails appear smooth, with consistent colouring. Nails protect the nail bed, and nail growth comes from below the cuticle area.
Nail cosmetics, such as nail polish, can weaken nails and make them more prone to splitting. Chemicals in nail polish can be absorbed into the body, and the harsh removal process can damage the nail plate and cuticle. Formaldehyde, a preservative commonly used in nail polish, is a potential cancer-causing substance and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. It is recommended to take breaks from polish and keep nails and cuticles well-moisturised between manicures.
Frequent exposure to water, especially hard water, can also weaken nails. Hard water has high levels of minerals such as magnesium, silica, and calcium. These minerals can break down the nail bed and nails, making them brittle and flaky. Nails can become thin, weak, and discoloured, and the high mineral content can dry out nail beds and stunt nail growth. Dehydration can also lead to brittle and weak nails.
To prevent nail damage, it is recommended to wear gloves while doing chores and avoid exposing nails to harsh chemicals. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also help, although split nails rarely occur due to poor nutrition.
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Ageing nails become more fragile and prone to splitting
Ageing is one of the most common reasons for nail splitting. As you get older, your nails may become thinner and more prone to cracking. This is due to a decrease in keratin production and nail growth. Nails may also become thicker or remain the same, but they will generally become more fragile and prone to splitting.
The curve of your nails may also change as you age. Clubbing, a dramatic shape change with very rounded nails, is a sign of long-term oxygen deprivation. It can be caused by various diseases, including kidney, liver, and endocrine disorders. Ingrown toenails can occur due to pressure from tight shoes or foot deformities. While more common in younger people, ingrown nails in older adults can be extremely painful and cause difficulty in walking.
Older nails are also more vulnerable to infections, particularly fungal infections, which can cause nail thickening and discoloration. Fungal infections account for about half of all nail disorders in older people and are often accompanied by conditions such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Repeated exposure to water, harsh chemicals, and cosmetics can further weaken nails and make them more prone to splitting.
Nutritional deficiencies, including low levels of iron, protein, biotin, calcium, fatty acids, and vitamins A, B, C, and D, can also contribute to nail thinning and breakage. Certain underlying illnesses, such as anemia, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), hormonal problems, and hypothyroidism, may also cause nail splitting.
To help prevent nail splitting due to ageing, it is recommended to moisturize nails and hands regularly, avoid harsh nail products and chemicals, and wear protective gloves during household chores and when going out in cold, wet weather. Keeping nails trimmed and filed can also help reduce the likelihood of splitting.
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See a doctor if you have frequent nail splits or signs of infection
While split nails are common and usually heal as your nails grow, frequent nail splitting could be a sign of an underlying issue. If you are experiencing frequent nail splits, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any potential health problems.
Firstly, frequent nail splitting could be a sign of nail fungus or a bacterial or yeast infection. Nails with fungal infections often become fragile, discoloured, and misshapen. If left untreated, the fungi can cause permanent damage to the nail. Your doctor may recommend antifungal medications to treat the infection and prevent further damage.
Secondly, frequent nail splitting could indicate an underlying vitamin or mineral deficiency. For example, deficiencies in iron, zinc, biotin, and selenium can cause brittle nails that are prone to splitting. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes or supplements to address any deficiencies and improve nail health.
Additionally, frequent nail splitting could be a symptom of certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis or onychomycosis (a fungal infection caused by ringworm). Psoriasis can cause nails to thicken, crumble, or split, and it may affect the nail bed. Treatment for psoriasis-related nail issues may include medication to control the condition and prevent further damage.
In some cases, frequent nail splitting could be related to physical stress or injury. If the nail bed is exposed or the split extends into it, you should see a doctor. They may recommend removing the nail and stitching the nail bed. In some cases, the nail may be reattached using stitches or glue.
Finally, frequent nail splitting could be related to aging, as older nails tend to become thinner, drier, and more brittle. While aging is a natural process that cannot be reversed, a doctor can provide guidance on nail care to help prevent further splitting and maintain nail health.
In summary, while most nail splits heal with time, frequent nail splitting could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. If you are experiencing frequent nail splits, it is important to consult a doctor to identify and address any potential health problems. They can provide guidance on treatment options and recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent further nail damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails take a long time to grow out, with fingernails taking 4-6 months and toenails taking about a year. In the meantime, you can try a home remedy to fix the nail in place and improve its appearance.
You can try using nail glue or a nail wrap to hold the nail together. You can also use a fake nail to cover the split.
Nails can split due to physical stress, nutrient deficiency, wear and tear, or frequent wetting and drying. They can also split due to underlying medical conditions, such as psoriasis or fungal infections.
To prevent nail splitting, you can take certain precautions and make lifestyle changes, such as wearing gloves while doing chores, avoiding harsh chemicals, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
