Nail Breakage
Nail breakage is a common issue that predominantly affects women more than men. Individuals facing this problem often experience brittle nails, slow growth, or a tendency for the nails to split and peel. Various factors can contribute to this condition, including nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical issues, or inadequate nail care. Understanding the causes and exploring comprehensive treatment and prevention methods is essential.
Causes of Nail Breakage
Nail breakage can arise from several factors, including:
- Injuries caused by frequent use of nails in daily tasks, such as opening bottles.
- Repeated washing and drying of hands, especially when doing dishes, leading to dryness and brittleness as nails expand when wet and contract when dry, weakening them over time.
- Continuous exposure to chemicals like cleaners, nail polish removers, nail hardeners, and hand sanitizers.
- Poor nutrition, as nails primarily consist of a protein called keratin. Nail breakage may occur due to a deficiency of this protein or essential vitamins and minerals critical for nail health, including iron, zinc, and vitamins C, D, and E. Biotin deficiency (a B vitamin) may also contribute to brittle nails, despite its role in nail health not being fully understood. Contrary to popular belief, calcium deficiency does not cause brittle nails or white spots.
- Medical conditions such as anemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, poor peripheral circulation during pregnancy, and certain skin diseases like lichen planus, psoriasis, and alopecia areata.
- Genetic factors, as nail breakage may be inherited from a parent.
- Aging, as skin and nails lose moisture over the years, making them dry and prone to breakage.
- Living in low humidity environments or being consistently exposed to hot, dry air.
- Behavioral or environmental conditions that lead to excessive dryness or moisture for the nails, as both extremes can weaken nails and increase their susceptibility to breaking.
Treating Nail Breakage
The first step in treating nail breakage is identifying the underlying causes to facilitate an effective response. Additionally, adhering to nail care tips is recommended:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
- Taking biotin supplements may help treat certain cases of nail breakage, with results typically visible after six months. However, pregnant women should avoid biotin.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to water and cleaning products.
- Wear rubber gloves lined with cotton during household chores.
- Regularly apply moisturizers to both the nails and the surrounding skin. It is beneficial to use a moisturizer after soaking nails in warm water for five minutes. Cotton gloves or socks can be worn over moisturized nails while sleeping.
- Trim nails regularly to prevent lengthy nails from becoming damaged.
- Stop using nail polish, nail polish remover, and hand sanitizers.
- Gently file and buff nails with non-metal tools, filing in the direction of nail growth only to prevent splitting. This process helps to eliminate rough edges, further preventing breakage.
- Consult a physician if:
- Previous health recommendations have proven ineffective.
- Nail breakage is accompanied by hair loss, anemia, fatigue, or other medical symptoms.
- Noticeable changes occur in the appearance of nails, such as ridges, color alterations, or changes in texture.
Natural Remedies for Nail Breakage
Nail breakage can often be treated naturally, provided it is not linked to a health issue. Some home remedies that may be beneficial include:
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a nourishing treatment for weak and brittle nails. Its saturated fats hydrate and protect nails from various infections. There are three methods to use coconut oil for nail breakage:
- Method 1: Gently warm coconut oil and apply it to all nails while massaging for five minutes to enhance circulation and moisturize. Repeat this process two to three times a day.
- Method 2: Before sleep, mix a quarter cup of warm coconut oil with a bit of lemon juice in a bowl, then dip nails into the mixture for ten minutes. Wear gloves overnight for optimal results.
- Method 3: Soak nails in warm water for five minutes before applying coconut oil.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another effective remedy for brittle nails, packed with beneficial nutrients like vitamins, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. It contains malic acid and acetic acid, which help combat nail infections. To use, combine equal parts of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl, then soak nails in the solution for a few minutes. Repeat this process once daily, and you will notice stronger nails within a few days. The leftover solution can be stored for future use.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil can also aid in treating nail breakage, particularly when caused by fungal infections, due to its potent antiseptic properties. Mix one tablespoon of vitamin E oil with a few drops of tea tree oil. Gently massage the mixture into the nails for several minutes, allowing it to sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Dry the nails and apply moisturizer. Repeat this process twice daily for a month.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an excellent choice for strengthening and enhancing the appearance of nails. To use, mix one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice with three tablespoons of olive oil in a small bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, then apply it to the nails using a clean cotton ball. Wear gloves overnight. Alternatively, mix equal parts of fresh lemon juice and argan oil, soaking nails for 20 minutes. Choose either method and apply daily for two to three weeks.
Video on Nail Breakage
For additional information on nail breakage, please watch the accompanying video.
Sources and References
- ^ A B C D E F G H I Dr. Surbhi, MD Skin (26-11-2015), “Brittle, peeling or splitting nails – Dermatologist guide to healthy nails”, Dermatocare, Retrieved 7-4-2017.
- ^ A B C “Brittle Nails”, Canadian Dermatology Association, Retrieved 7-4-2017.
- ↑ Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD (20-3-2017), “Brittle Nails”, MedicineNet.com, Retrieved 7-4-2017.
- ^ A B C “Brittle Splitting Nails”, American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, Retrieved 7-4-2017.
- ^ A B “Treating Weak or Brittle Nails – Topic Overview”, WebMD, Retrieved 7-4-2017.
- ^ A B C D “Home Remedies for Brittle Nails”, Top 10 Home Remedies, Retrieved 7-4-2017.