Nobody likes to break a nail, especially when you want your hands to look nice. However, it happens occasionally. The simplest of activities can cause you to break a nail.
However, nail breakage occurs more frequently when you have brittle nails. As be a nightmare for women at least, you may ask yourself what happened to your lovely nail and how to prevent this phenomenon.
What are Brittle Nails?
Brittle nails, also known medically as Onychorrhexis, is fragility of the finger or toenails that results in breakage.
Excessive usage of detergents and water can weaken nails. Using harsh solvents such as nail polish remover too much can also be damaging.
There are health conditions responsible for brittle nails as well. Those conditions are as follows:
- Anorexia nervosa
- Alopecia Areata
It should also be noted that dry brittle nails can be a normal sign of aging.
How to Treat Brittle Nails
Fragile nails are treatable. The key is to administer treatment inside and outside the body.
So here are some tips to help you do both:
- Keep your finger and toenails trimmed. This decreases its chances of cracking or tearing. It’s advised that you trim your nails shortly after bathing or showering. They will be softer at this time; thus, giving them a more even cut. Be sure to use askin softening cream after washing or bathing.
- Wear rubber gloves whenever in contact with water (excluding when you bathe or shower). Your nails can easily absorb 20-25% of water. This causes them to expand, and contract later when your hands are dry. So, the more water your nails are exposed to, the more they’ll expand and contract. As a result, you have weak nails.
- Eat foods rich in vitamin B7, which is known as biotin. Such foods are as follows:
- Egg yolks
- Wear clear nail polish that contains protein. This will strengthen your nails back to good health.
- If you continue to experience brittle nails, you should see your doctor. Request a test for iron deficiencies. If it’s discovered that you lack iron, you can get it through the following sources:
- Iron supplements
- Dark, green leafy vegetables