Liam Carter
Fingernails and toenails are composed of protein and fat and grow at a rate of about one-tenth of an inch per month. Nails protect the nail bed, the skin at the upper tip of the finger or toe. While nails will usually grow back after being damaged, cracked, or split, there are instances where the nail matrix or nail bed sustains permanent damage, resulting in a deformed nail or preventing the nail from growing back altogether.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail growth | Nails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches per month |
| Fingernails grow in 3-6 months | |
| Toenails grow at half the rate of fingernails | |
| Nail cracks | Caused by injury, stubbed toe, severe blow to finger or thumb, or frequent handwashing |
| Can be caused by overuse of nail polish remover, leading to dry, brittle nails | |
| Can be caused by picking or biting nails due to anxiety or nervousness | |
| Can be caused by underlying health conditions, such as thyroid issues, anemia, eczema, psoriasis, or subungual melanoma | |
| Treatment | Nails can heal with time as they grow out |
| Keep nails clean and dry | |
| Cut nails straight across and round the tips slightly | |
| Use nail oil, hand lotion, or coconut oil to moisturize nails and cuticles | |
| Avoid nail products with harsh chemicals such as toluene and formaldehyde | |
| Consider taking a B vitamin supplement, unless pregnant | |
| Consult a doctor if nails are still cracking after 6 months |
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What You'll Learn
Causes of cracked nails
Cracked nails can be caused by a variety of factors, some benign and others indicative of a more serious underlying health issue.
Aging
The most common cause of cracked nails is aging. As people get older, their nails tend to become thinner and more prone to cracking. This is more common in women over 60 but can also affect men.
Exposure to Moisture
Frequent exposure to water can cause nails to become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to cracking. This can occur during activities such as washing dishes or frequent handwashing.
Nail Products
The use of certain nail products, such as nail polish, nail polish remover, and acrylic nails, can weaken and dry out nails, making them more prone to cracking. These products often contain harsh chemicals like toluene and formaldehyde.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Cracked nails can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of iron, protein, or B vitamins. Pregnant women, for example, may experience an increased risk of anemia, which can lead to cracked nails.
Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions can also contribute to nail cracking. For example, issues with the thyroid gland can affect nail health, and conditions like psoriasis can cause nail changes, including cracking.
Infections
Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, can invade the nails, making them more susceptible to cracking or breaking.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors, such as frequent nail biting or picking, and using nails as tools (e.g., opening soda cans), can also increase the likelihood of nail cracking.
It is important to note that while most nail cracks will heal over time, persistent or severe cracks may require medical attention to address any underlying causes and prevent further issues.
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Home remedies for cracked nails
Cracked nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, exposure to water, and certain underlying illnesses. While there are products available to repair cracked nails, there are also some simple home remedies that can help soothe and strengthen them.
One way to treat cracked nails at home is to use natural ingredients that help revitalise your nails. Coconut oil, for instance, is an excellent natural moisturiser that helps to nurture and strengthen weak and brittle nails. It makes the cuticles strong and reduces dryness and peeling. Warm 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil and gently massage it into your nails for 4-6 minutes, 3 times a day. This will enhance blood circulation and retain moisture in the nails.
Apple cider vinegar is another effective home remedy for cracked nails. Its antiseptic properties help to ward off nail infections. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, and soak your nails in the solution for a few minutes, gently pushing down the cuticles. Do this once daily, and after a week, your nails will become stronger and firmer.
You can also try a mixture of sea salts, lemon essential oil, and wheat germ oil. Immerse your nails in this mixture for 15 minutes, 3 times a week. Rinse with warm water, pat dry, and apply hand cream.
If your nails are severely cracked, cover the nail with petroleum jelly and place a bandage on top until it grows out. Soak the nail in saline water 2-3 times a day and reapply the bandage.
Additionally, it is important to keep your nails clean and dry, and to avoid harsh nail products that contain chemicals like toluene and formaldehyde. You should also wash and moisturise your hands regularly, and keep your nails trimmed and filed to prevent further cracking.
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Medical treatments for cracked nails
Cracked nails can be a symptom of several underlying health conditions, including:
- Fungal infections
- Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of protein, vitamins A, B, C, and D, iron, zinc, or calcium
- Psoriasis
- Thyroid problems
- Anaemia
- Raynaud's syndrome
If you suspect that your cracked nails are caused by any of the above, consult a doctor or dermatologist, who may prescribe medication or supplements to treat the condition. For example, if you have anaemia, your doctor may recommend iron supplements or, in severe cases, a blood transfusion or IV treatment.
If your cracked nails are not caused by an underlying health condition, they may be caused by external factors, such as:
- Ageing
- Overexposure to moisture
- Nail biting
- Using harsh nail products, such as nail polish and nail polish remover, which contain strong chemicals that can weaken and dry out your nails
- Manicures, which can involve scraping the nail bed with metal tools
- Fake nails, which can cause nail injury and weakening
To treat cracked nails caused by these external factors, you can try the following:
- Keep your nails clean and dry
- Avoid harsh nail products
- Keep your nails trimmed, cutting them straight across with sharp scissors or clippers, and rounding the tips slightly
- Use a nail-hardening solution
- Use a nail oil or hand lotion regularly
- Try a paraffin wax bath at a nail salon or at home to moisturize your hands
- Wear gloves when washing dishes or using cleaning products to prevent further damage and strengthen the nails
- Avoid manicures, which usually involve nail polish and polish removers
- Do not use your nails as tools, such as opening soda cans
- If you have a severe nail split, cover the nail with petroleum jelly and place a bandage on top until it grows back. Soak the nail in saline water 2–3 times a day and reapply the bandage
- File down any nail snags or uneven edges to prevent further cracks
- Apply a clear coat of nail polish to increase nail strength
- Before bed, apply urea cream or mineral oil to your nails and cuticles, then put on cotton gloves. During the day, apply lotion after washing your hands or showering
- Take biotin supplements, unless you are pregnant. You can also try eating more meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes
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Preventing cracked nails
Cracked nails can be a sign of underlying health problems, nutrient deficiencies, or simply a reflection of regular habits. While there's not much you can do to fix a cracked nail, there are several ways to prevent your nails from cracking in the first place. Here are some tips to help you maintain strong and healthy nails:
Keep Nails Clean and Dry
It is important to maintain good nail hygiene by keeping your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands regularly and ensure they are thoroughly dried. If you spend a lot of time with your hands in water, such as washing dishes or frequent handwashing, consider wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves to protect your nails from prolonged exposure to moisture.
Moisturize Nails and Cuticles
Use moisturizers on your hands, nails, and cuticles to prevent dryness and maintain nail health. Look for cuticle oils that contain vitamin E or petroleum jelly-based lotions that seal in moisture. Keeping your nails moisturized can help prevent them from becoming brittle and prone to cracking.
Avoid Harmful Nail Products
Stay away from nail products that contain harsh chemicals such as toluene and formaldehyde. Also, avoid using acetone-based nail polish removers as they can weaken and make your nails more susceptible to breaking. Opt for nail polishes with a gel topcoat instead of multiple layers for easier removal. Give your nails a break from manicures and allow them to rebuild and strengthen.
Use Nail-Hardening Products
If your nails are prone to cracking, consider using nail-hardening solutions to strengthen them. These products can help fortify your nails and make them more resistant to cracking. However, be cautious of products that contain harsh chemicals, as they may do more harm than good.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Ensure that you are consuming a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients for nail health. Iron deficiency is a common cause of cracked nails. Include adequate protein and B vitamins in your diet to promote strong and healthy nails.
Avoid Nail Biting and Picking
Nail biting and picking are common habits that can weaken your nails and lead to cracks. Try to refrain from these habits, and if they are a result of anxiety or nervousness, consider finding alternative ways to manage stress.
By following these preventive measures, you can help reduce the occurrence of cracked nails and maintain their health and strength. Remember that healthy nails are an important part of your overall well-being.
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Nail growth rate and regrowth
Fingernails grow at a rate of about 0.1 inches per month and require 3-6 months to completely regrow. Toenails grow more slowly, usually at close to half the rate of fingernails.
The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails are formed. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix, which is the moon-shaped whitish area (lunula) at the base of the nail. As long as there is no permanent damage to the nail matrix or nail bed, the nail should regrow normally. Minor damage will produce minor defects in the nail, while more significant defects can result in a permanently deformed nail.
There are various causes of cracked, split, or brittle nails, including injury, frequent handwashing, or overuse of nail polish remover, which can result in dry, brittle nails that crack. Long-term exposure to moisture can also cause nails to become weak and brittle. In some cases, nail splitting can be caused by a medical condition, such as thyroid issues, anemia, or eczema, so it is important to seek medical advice if the issue persists.
While there is not much that can be done to repair a cracked nail, there are ways to prevent nails from cracking in the first place. Keeping nails clean and dry can help, as well as using a nail-hardening solution or a moisturizer on the nails and cuticles. Nails should be cut straight across and filed smoothly to prevent catching on clothing or socks.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, nails will continue to grow even with a crack, but the crack will remain as the nail grows out.
To repair a cracked nail, you can try the following methods:
- Using a tea bag and clear nail polish
- Applying petroleum jelly and a bandage
- Soaking the nail in saline water 2-3 times a day
- Applying coconut oil daily
- Taking a biotin supplement (unless pregnant)
- Using a nail-hardening solution
To prevent your nails from cracking, try to keep them clean, dry, and moisturized. Avoid overexposure to water and nail polish, and refrain from picking or biting your nails.
Cracked nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Aging
- Frequent handwashing
- Overexposure to moisture
- Nail polish and nail polish remover
- Injury or trauma
- Certain health conditions, such as thyroid issues, anemia, or eczema
If your nails are cracking frequently and causing discomfort, or if the crack extends into your nail bed, you should consult a doctor. Additionally, if your nails show signs of infection, such as discoloration, swelling, or pain, seek medical attention.
