Nail splitting, or onychoschizia, is a common problem that occurs for various reasons. If you’re wondering, “why are my nails splitting?” it could be due to factors like nutritional deficiencies, exposure to harsh chemicals, or underlying health conditions. This article will explore these common causes and offer practical solutions to strengthen your nails.
Key Takeaways
- Fungal infections can lead to nail splitting by making nails thick, brittle, and discolored, requiring prompt treatment.
- Nail splitting is often caused by nutritional deficiencies, dryness, exposure to chemicals, physical trauma, and aging.
- Preventing splitting involves proper nail care, a balanced diet, hydration, and protecting nails from damage and harsh treatments.
Fungal Infections and Nail Health
Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can wreak havoc on nail health. These infections often lead to nails becoming thick, yellow, and brittle, making them difficult to manage. The fungal nail infection tends to distort the shape and texture of the nails, contributing to splitting and other nail problems. Fungal infections enter the nails through small cracks or the surrounding skin, and once they take hold, they can be stubborn to treat.
For severe cases, antifungal medications are typically necessary, and treatment can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months depending on the severity. Laser therapy is an emerging option, but it isn’t widely recommended just yet.
Common Causes of Nail Splitting
Nail splitting can result from a variety of lifestyle and environmental factors. Identifying these causes helps in preventing and treating brittle, splitting nails.
Let’s explore the most common causes and how they impact nail health.
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies play a significant role in nail health. A lack of essential vitamins and minerals like biotin, zinc, and protein can lead to weakened nails. Iron deficiency anemia may cause changes in nail shape and color, while low calcium levels can result in soft, flexible nails, known as Hapalonychia.
A diet rich in these vital nutrients will help keep your nails strong.
2. Dryness and Dehydration
Dryness and dehydration are common culprits behind brittle nails. Lack of moisture causes nails to split and break, and cold weather can worsen this issue. Keeping your nails hydrated is key.
Moisturizing your nails and the surrounding skin regularly can prevent these issues.
3. Frequent Handwashing or Exposure to Chemicals
Frequent handwashing and exposure to harsh chemicals strip nails of natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also contribute to nail splitting.
Wearing gloves when using cleaning products and moisturizing your hands regularly protects your nails.
4. Trauma or Physical Injury
Trauma or physical injury to the nails is another common cause of nail splitting. Everyday activities, improper manicure techniques, and accidents can all lead to nail damage. Handling your nails with care and choosing gentle manicure methods can prevent these problems.
5. Aging and Hormonal Changes
As we age, our nails naturally become thinner and more fragile. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during menopause, can also impact nail strength and health.
Although we can’t stop aging, proper care and nutrition can support nail health.
Medical Conditions and Nail Splitting
Underlying medical conditions can significantly impact nail health, leading to splitting and other issues.
Here are some specific conditions that can cause brittle, splitting nails and their effects on nails.
1. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are a common cause of nail splitting. These infections often lead to nails becoming brittle, thickened, and discolored. Common symptoms include separation of the nail from the nail bed and an unpleasant smell.
Promptly addressing these infections improves nail health.
2. Psoriasis
Nail psoriasis can cause various changes in nails, including pitting, ridges, and discoloration. This condition can also lead to nail separation and discomfort.
Nail psoriasis often requires medical treatment and ongoing care.
3. Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can lead to brittle nails and slower nail growth. Changes in nail texture and growth rate are common signs of thyroid issues affecting nails.
Managing thyroid conditions properly can improve nail health.
4. Raynaud’s Disease
Raynaud’s Disease, which affects circulation, can result in brittle and discolored nails. Poor circulation associated with this condition can lead to changes in nail appearance and health.
Improving circulation addresses nail condition.
Preventing and Treating Splitting Nails
Preventing and treating splitting nails involves a combination of proper nail care, nutritional support, protection, and addressing underlying health issues.
Here are detailed methods to help you achieve healthy, strong nails.
1. Proper Nail Care
Maintaining healthy nails requires proper care. Moisturizing with products that contain alpha hydroxy acids strengthens brittle nails. Choosing nail-friendly products and avoiding harsh chemicals also promote better nail health.
2. Nutritional Support
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like biotin, zinc, and iron maintains strong nails. Including proteins in your diet further supports nail strength and prevents splitting.
3. Protecting Your Nails
Protecting your nails from damage is vital. Using gloves during household chores and gentle nail tools prevents splitting. Cotton-lined rubber gloves effectively shield nails from harsh elements.
4. Treating Underlying Health Issues
Improving nail health involves treating underlying health issues like fungal infections or hormonal imbalances. Consulting a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment addresses these conditions.
Nutritional Deficiencies Impacting Nail Strength
Deficiencies in essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and biotin can result in brittle nails. Biotin supplementation improves nail strength, and a diet rich in these nutrients maintains healthy nails.
Aging and Its Effects on Nails
Aging slows nail growth and makes them more prone to brittleness and splitting. It can also cause discoloration, thickening, and ridge formation, making nails appear less healthy.
Women and people over 50 are particularly susceptible to these changes.
Pregnancy and Nail Changes
Nail splitting is more common between 29-42 weeks of pregnancy due to iron deficiency anemia from increased blood volume. Higher progesterone levels during pregnancy may also contribute to nail brittleness.
Nail Psoriasis: Symptoms and Management
Nail psoriasis results in various symptoms. These include pitting, discoloration, crumbling, and splitting. Treatment options include topical or injected corticosteroids. Home remedies like aloe vera and Dead Sea salt soaks may alleviate symptoms.
Periodic flare-ups make management an ongoing process.
Excessive Moisture and Chemical Exposure
Brittle and split nails can result from excessive moisture and chemical exposure. Frequent water exposure worsens nails brittle, while harsh solvents and chemicals cause dehydration and cracked nails.
Wearing gloves while using cleaning products and washing dishes protects nails from damage.
Nail Injuries and Their Consequences
Everyday nail injuries can cause splits and potential infections if untreated. Nail injury symptoms include throbbing pain, bleeding, and a torn nail. The nail bed typically heals in 7 to 10 days, while full nail growth takes 4 to 6 months.
The Impact of Nail Picking and Biting
Nail biting, or onychophagia, affects about 30% of the population, damaging nails and surrounding skin. Chronic nail biting exposes individuals to harmful bacteria, increasing infection risk.
Bitter-tasting nail polish or wearing gloves can deter nail biting. Not biting nails or picking at cuticles prevents nail bed damage.
Effective Treatments for Splitting Nails
Treating splitting nails effectively involves identifying and addressing underlying health issues. Clear nail polish provides a protective barrier for damaged nails, reducing further splitting. Nail wraps reinforce weak nails, preventing further splitting. Biotin supplements promote nail strength, especially in those with a deficiency.
Effective treatments include:
- Apply a clear nail polish to create a protective barrier.
- Use nail wraps to reinforce weak nails.
- Take biotin supplements to promote nail strength.
- Moisturize your nails regularly to prevent dryness.
- Avoid using harsh nail polish removers.
- Wear gloves when doing chores to protect your nails.
- Seek treatment for any underlying health conditions.
- Use gentle nail tools to avoid causing trauma.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
Preventative Measures for Healthy Nails
Regularly moisturizing nails and cuticles significantly enhances nail health and prevents splitting. Applying urea cream or mineral oil before bed maintains nail integrity.:
Tips for healthy, strong nails include:
- Moisturize nails and cuticles regularly to prevent dryness.
- Apply urea cream or mineral oil to nails and cuticles before bed.
- Wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing chores involving water or harsh chemicals.
- Minimize the use of acetone-based nail polish removers.
- Use sharp tools for trimming nails and cut them straight across to promote healthier growth.
- Keep nails dry and clean to prevent germs from accumulating.
- Avoid biting nails or picking at cuticles to prevent damage.
- Incorporate a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
- Use nail-friendly products and avoid harsh chemicals to maintain nail integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common causes of nail splitting?
Nail splitting often happens due to nutritional deficiencies, dryness, exposure to chemicals, trauma, or simply aging. Keeping your nails moisturized and maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent this.
How can I prevent my nails from splitting?
To keep your nails from splitting, make sure to moisturize regularly, wear gloves for chores, steer clear of harsh chemicals, and eat a balanced diet. These simple habits can really make a difference!
What treatments are available for splitting nails?
To help with splitting nails, you can try applying clear nail polish, using nail wraps, taking biotin supplements, and keeping your nails moisturized. These simple treatments can really make a difference!
Can medical conditions cause nail splitting?
Absolutely, medical conditions like fungal infections, psoriasis, thyroid disorders, and Raynaud’s Disease can definitely lead to nail splitting. It’s important to get these issues addressed to keep your nails healthy.
How do I know if my nail splitting is due to a fungal infection?
If your nails are brittle, thickened, discolored, or separating from the nail bed, you might be dealing with a fungal infection. An unpleasant smell can also be a telltale sign, so keep an eye out for those symptoms!