Brittle nails are not uncommon. In fact, according to a medical study, 27% of women have brittle nails. This may be the result of a hidden health condition or external factors. Read the article to learn what causes brittle nails and what you can do to prevent themto keep healthy and strong.
Brittle nails are divided into two categories – dry and soft. Dry and brittle nails are the result of a lack of moisture. Most often they are due to repeated hand washing. Soft and brittle nails, on the other hand, are due to too much moisture, often as a result of excessive contact with household cleaners and polish removers.
Other causes of brittle nails include:
- Alter: Nails usually change with age. While the nails on the feet usually become thicker and harder, the fingernails often become thinner and weaker.
- Iron deficiency: This condition occurs when the body does not receive enough iron, resulting in low red blood cell levels.
- Hypothyroidism: To theSymptoms of an underactive thyroidIn addition to brittle nails, these include hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, constipation and depression.
- Raynaud's syndrome: This condition is characterized by poor circulation in the extremities and can affect the health of the nails.
Interesting facts: If the fingernails break but the toenails are healthy, the cause is an external factor.
What can you do about splitting nails?
There's nothing you can do to prevent age-related nail changes, but you can reduce the risk of cracks and breaks. To keep nails healthy and strong, you should adopt the following practices:
- Use a moisturizer: Look for moisturizing hand lotions that contain lanolin or alpha hydroxy acids.
- Moisturize your hands after washing: When applying the lotion or cream, rub it in and directly onto the nails. Also wet your hands, feet, and nails before bed to keep them hydrated while you sleep.
- Protect your hands: Wear gloves when doing housework to keep your hands dry. Gloves can also protect your hands and nails from harsh chemicals such as detergents and cleaning products. Avoid prolonged exposure to cold and dry weather. If you go outside on a cold day, be sure to wear gloves.
- Keep your nails short, to minimize the surfaces where water and chemicals can penetrate.
- Use a fine nail file: It is advisable to file your nails daily to remove imperfections and prevent chipping. Remember to only file in one direction.
- Do not bite your nails and cuticles: Push back the cuticles with a metal tool.
- Harden your nailsby using nail hardener.
- Avoid acetone: Choose a nail polish remover that does not contain acetone and try not to use it too often.
- Eat healthy: It is important to improve your diet to maintain the health of your nails. Nails are often brittlethe result of a nutrient deficiencyTo prevent and improve brittle nails, include rich sources of vitamins A, B, C, D and E, zinc, folic acid, iron, calcium and biotin in your diet. Plus, it's good for your overall health.
Strengthen brittle nails with these home remedies
Did you know that you don't have to look outside your home for solutions to your brittle nails? Here are some helpful suggestions on how to strengthen your nails yourself.
Coconut oil for strong nails
Coconut oil is one of the simplest and easiest ingredients to find in every home. This oil is for hiscaring propertiesknown and not only prevents the nails and cuticles from drying out, but also helps to strengthen them.
How: Heat some coconut oil in a container and massage your nails with it for 5 minutes. Repeat twice daily for best results.
Argan oil for thin nails
Rightly called “liquid gold,” argan oil is just as good for nails as it is for skin. Its softening properties immediately nourish dry nails and cuticles and strengthen them in the long term.
How: Simply apply a few drops and massage your nails.
Soak with sea salt
The relaxing and soothing bath softens dry and brittle nail beds and cuticles and gives them shine. The healing and rejuvenating oneEffects of sea saltis the reason why it is also used in foot baths and foot washings.
How: Put some warm water in a container and add 2 tablespoons of sea salt, add a few drops of lemon essential oil and dip your nails in it.
Soak with egg yolk and milk
Brittle and weak nails can also be the result of a lack of protein and calcium. Egg yolk and milk are rich in these substances and help strengthen nails.
How: Mix one egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of milk and massage your nails well. Clean with water after 20 minutes.
Soak with lemon juice and olive oil
Olive oil and lemon juice are common natural remedies used for various dermatological treatments, including brittle nails.
Apply vitamin E
Vitamin E can improve the condition of nails. Applying vitamin E oil can rejuvenate and strengthen them.
How: Open a vitamin capsule and apply the thick oil to each nail.
