Weak nails occur for various reasons, and can result in breakage, splitting or even detachment of the nail from its bed. This article discusses the causes and gives some tips to help reduce the problem.
Brittle nails
Nails that break easily or separate into layers at the tip are very common. The most likely cause is excessive exposure to substances that weaken the structure of the nail; these include detergents, solvents such as nail polish remover, and repeated hand-washing.
People with a medical condition such as Raynaud’s disease (a vascular disorder that affects blood flow to the extremities), hypothyroidism or psoriasis may have brittle nails, as may those who are malnourished. Brittle nails are also common in older people.
Brittle nails are best treated by keeping the nails short and wearing gloves when washing the dishes or doing other household chores.
Applying a protective coat of nail colour may help – but remember that nail polish remover can cause brittle nails in the first place, so look out for gentler brands.
False nails look good and can hide many cosmetic flaws, but they can also make weakened nails worse. Always take great care when removing artificial nails, to avoid further damage to the real nail below.
One of the B vitamins, biotin, has been shown to improve brittle nails when taken as a supplement.
Onycholysis
In onycholysis, the nail separates from its bed, gradually and painlessly, beginning at the tip and progressing downwards. Nail separation can be caused by fungal infection, psoriasis, prolonged exposure to irritants such as the chemicals used in manicures, or even sunburn. However, it is most commonly seen in women with long fingernails, as a consequence of repeated catching and levering of the nail away from the fingertip.
Dirt and debris can accumulate in the gap between the nail and its bed, but attempts to clean it with pointed manicure tools may make the detachment worse. The gap is also at risk of bacterial infection.
Onycholysis due to overlong fingernails is treated by first dealing with any infection, then trimming away the unattached nail. The nails should be kept short until reattachment occurs, and prolonged contact with water and other irritants must be avoided. These measures will also help prevent nail separation in the future.
Take Care of Your Nails to Avoid Cosmetic Problems
To keep your nails strong and healthy, eat a balanced diet, be gentle when doing manicures at home, and wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals. If you are concerned that your weak nails may have a more serious cause, see your doctor for advice.
