Causes, Remedies, and Nutrition for Brittle Nails: An Overview
Brittle nails, also known as onychoschizia, are a common issue that affects many individuals, regardless of age or gender. This condition can be caused by various factors, including too much or too little moisture, underlying health conditions, and poor nutrition [1].
In addressing brittle nails, a balanced approach is key. Home remedies and treatments focus on hydration, protection, nutrition, and gentle care.
Protecting nails from moisture and harsh chemicals is crucial. Wearing gloves during household chores like dishwashing helps prevent excessive water exposure that weakens nails. Avoiding harsh detergents and chemicals also reduces damage [1][2][4].
Keeping nails and cuticles well-moisturized is another essential step. Regular application of nourishing hand creams, cuticle oils, or natural oils such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, and olive leaf extract helps restore moisture and flexibility to brittle nails [1][2][5].
Maintaining proper nail care habits is also vital. Keeping nails at a moderate length, filing them gently in one direction with a glass file, and allowing nails to "breathe" by taking breaks between nail polishes can help prevent further dryness and splitting [1][5].
Improving nutrition plays a significant role in nail strength and growth. A diet rich in protein, biotin (Vitamin B7), iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E supports nail health [1][3][5]. Biotin supplements may increase nail thickness and reduce brittleness when taken under healthcare guidance [1][3][5].
Specialized nail repair serums can also be beneficial. Products formulated with natural oils and herbal extracts, like Dr. M. Bernstein's Nail Care Pro, can deeply penetrate the nail bed, strengthen keratin bonds, restore moisture balance, promote healthy growth, and provide antimicrobial protection [1][5].
Additional tips include massaging nail beds to stimulate circulation and support nail growth, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding aggressive nail treatments or picking that worsen brittleness [3][5].
If home remedies are not effective or if additional accompanying symptoms like fatigue or weight gain/loss are noticed, it may be beneficial to seek a doctor's advice. They may be able to suggest additional treatments or determine the cause of the brittleness [6].
Anemia, a condition where the body does not produce enough hemoglobin, and thyroid disorders, which cause the body to create too many or too few hormones, can also cause brittle nails [2][3]. Eating iron-rich foods can help if a person has an iron deficiency or anemia [7].
Age can also affect the strength of a person's nails, making them more prone to breaking [8]. Good nail care practices, such as gently filing away snags and avoiding metal tools, can help maintain healthy nails [9].
If only the fingernails are split or brittle and the toenails are strong, an external factor or condition may be the cause [2]. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, a combination of external protection and internal nourishment is essential in repairing brittle nails caused by moisture imbalance or underlying health factors. Consistency and patience are key to seeing meaningful improvement [1][3][5].
References: [1] American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. (n.d.). Brittle Nails. Retrieved from https://www.aocd.org/page/BrittleNails [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021, January 11). Brittle nails. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/brittle-nails/symptoms-causes/syc-20355583 [3] Cleveland Clinic. (2020, November 11). Brittle Nails. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16398-brittle-nails [4] National Health Service (NHS). (2021, February 17). Brittle nails. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/brittle-nails/ [5] WebMD. (2021, February 10). Brittle Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/beauty/makeup-skincare-tips/brittle-nails-causes-symptoms-treatments [6] American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Brittle Nails. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-scalp/conditions/brittle-nails [7] Healthline. (2021, February 17). Brittle Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/brittle-nails [8] Aging Care. (2021, February 17). Brittle Nails in Older Adults: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.agingcare.com/articles/brittle-nails-in-older-adults-causes-treatments-and-prevention-169813.htm [9] WebMD. (2021, February 17). Brittle Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/beauty/makeup-skincare-tips/brittle-nails-causes-symptoms-treatments#1-5
- A balanced diet containing protein, biotin, iron, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E can improve nail health and strength, addressing brittleness.
- Consuming iron-rich foods may help resolve anemia, a potential cause of brittle nails.
- Spondylitis, a type of arthritis, is a health condition that may contribute to brittle nails in some individuals.
- Obesity can lead to various health issues, including dermatitis and migraines, which can potentially affect nail health indirectly.
- The predictive science of health-and-wellness suggests that poor nutrition deficiencyanemias can result in brittle nails, among other health issues.
- Atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, can lead to dry skin, potentially causing brittle nails.
- Deficiency in certain nutrients, like iron, can result in depression and impact overall health, including nail health.
- Colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease, may cause deficiencies in essential nutrients, potentially leading to brittle nails.
- Psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches, may also affect the nails, leading to brittleness.
- Aq, a potential treatment for HIV, can have side effects such as skin-care issues and potential impacts on nail health.
- Tier-one health-and-wellness advertisements often focus on the benefits of skincare products, but neglect to mention their potential impact on nail health, such as causing dryness and brittleness.
