Brittle Fingernails Causes

Nails tend to get brittle with age. This is quite normal, but nails getting weak and dry at a young age is certainly a cause for concern. Brittle nails are weak, tend to break easily, hence are prone to damage. Factors that can make fingernails weak and flimsy are given below:

Advertisements that promote detergents, are often misleading. Although these detergents may help to eliminate tough stains from utensils and clothes, their usage can harm the fingernails. These products are loaded with harsh chemicals. Hence, their direct exposure to fingernails is a cause for concern.

Although this cosmetic product can enhance the beauty of the fingernails, it can also make them brittle. Studies show that if nail polish is frequently used, it can have a negative impact on the nail strength, leading to brittle and dry nails.

When people are unable to remove nail polish, they use this nail care product. However, certain nail polish removers, especially those made from alcohol, may weaken the nails considerably. These products tend to remove the moisture from nails that may considerably weaken the fingernails.

Poor nutrition can adversely affect nail health as well. So, when the diet is deficient in nutrients like vitamins and minerals, it can negatively affect the nails. Poor nail health indicates deficiency of calcium and vitamin A. However, there are other factors that can affect the nail health negatively. For instance, lack of proper care may weaken and damage the nails.

An injury or trauma that damages the nail bed can also make nails brittle for quite some time.

Deficiency of vitamin and protein can make the nails susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. The bacteria not only causes weakening of nails but also turns them black or blue. Discoloration of nail bed and swelling of the tissue that surrounds the nail is commonly associated with nail disorders.

Research has proved that certain diseases that affect the liver and the kidneys can also weaken the fingernails. Even skin conditions like psoriasis may damage the nails.

Excessive exposure to water during long hot baths can eventually make the nails weak and dry. Playing in water for a long duration can also cause brittle fingernails as well.

To prevent early manifestation of dry, brittle fingernails, proper nail care is essential. There are people who spend a fortune on skin care products, but they often tend to neglect nails. This kind of attitude will surely spoil the nails in the long run.

Having a healthy diet is the key to keep the nails smooth and beautiful. A diet that provides all essential nutrients (vitamin A, protein, calcium, zinc, iron) can ensure strong and healthy nails for years to come.

Keeping the body hydrated, by drinking plenty of water, is also necessary to prevent dryness in nails. Applying cuticle oil and organic nail products is equally important so as to avoid developing brittle nails. Also, when using detergents, it is essential to wear gloves to keep the nails away from harsh chemicals.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.