Everyone wants to have strong and beautiful nails. Beauty can be spoiled because of brittle and weak nails that are easily chipped or cracked, a problem that affects both women and men. The use of nail polish, aging and frequent exposure to water can all have detrimental effects on nails. Brittle nails are also associated with ailments such as:
- Lung conditions
- Lichen planus
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Anemia
- Endocrine disorders
- Fungal infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Alopecia areata
Additional causes include chemical exposure, dehydration, nail polish remover, trauma and nutritional deficiencies. Other serious health ailments are also associated with brittle nails, including heart disease, lupus, jaundice and hepatitis.
Splitting, cracking or dry nails can be uncomfortable, but the good news is that brittle nails can easily be treated with a variety of home remedies which can strengthen them.
Brittle Nails: Signs and Symptoms
If you are wondering why your nails are breaking easily, it’s probably because they are brittle. If you think you have brittle toenails or fingernails, there are a few signs and symptoms you may want to look out for, including:
- Longitudinal ridging
- Easy cracking, chipping or breaking
- Peeling nail tips
- Difficulty growing fingernails
- Frequent splitting at the tip
Remedies for Weak and Brittle Nails
- HORSETAIL
Horsetail contains high quantities of silica, a vigorous mineral for healthy and strong nails. This herb can also remove any white spots on your nails.
- TEA TREE OIL
This type of oil can cure brittle nails, particularly those caused by a fungal infection. Tea tree oil is a potent antiseptic that can help fight infections and cure discolored nails.
Sea salt is good for our nails because it contains several healing minerals. It toughens brittle nails, making our nails even shinier and softening our cuticles.
- VITAMIN E OIL
An absence of moisture is one reason why we get brittle nails. However vitamin E oil can keep our nails hydrated and moisturized while simultaneously nourishing and strengthening cuticles and nails. For additional benefits, you can take Vitamin E tablets orally.
When massaged into the nails, coconut oil can bring them back to life and even prevent several types of nail infections. Its saturated fat makes it a great moisturizer. As an alternative to coconut oil, you can use olive oil.
Apple cider vinegar contains magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and vitamins, all of which are good for our nails. It can also cure nail infections with its acetic acid and malic acid. Mix some vinegar into your water to drink.
The beer has biotin, phosphorus, potassium and selenium, all of which are proven helpful in making our nails healthier and stronger. It is a proven remedy for weak and brittle nails.
Lemon Juice can improve and strengthen the condition of our nails, making them whiter and brighter than ever.
BIOTIN SUPPLEMENT
Taking A biotin supplement will make our nails healthier and stronger, as biotin is very good for fighting brittle, thin or splitting nails.
If we have an iron deficiency, we have an increased chance of getting weak and brittle nails. This is why blackstrap molasses is an effective remedy. It contains high amounts of iron, as well as many other nutrients beneficial for our health. However, anyone suffering from diabetes should not use this as a remedy.
ADDITIONAL TIPS
- Apply a thick cream or petroleum jelly to your nails regularly.
- When your nails and hands are exposed to chemicals or water, don’t forget to use plastic gloves. If you don’t have any plastic gloves, cut your nails to minimize the amount of chemicals and water being absorbed.
- Pushing your cuticles back instead of cutting them to prevent a fungal infection.
- Choose fortified polishes when buying nail polish.
- Avoid using fake nails, because they can cause nail fungus.
- Wear nail polish sparingly so that your fingernails can be exposed to fresh air.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde and nail polish remover.
- Drink enough water to prevent dehydration, and follow a properly balanced diet.
- Nourish your nails with vitamin D by exposing them to sunlight for a few minutes every day.
- To avoid hangnails and dry skin, use creams or cuticle oil.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Not all brittle nails are a sign of more serious issues; sometimes they just look unpleasant. However, they can be indicative of health problems, including thyroid issues and iron deficiency. It is recommended that you consult with your doctor if you are experiencing weak and brittle nails.
If your brittle nails are the result using too many harsh chemicals or not wearing plastic gloves while doing your household chores, then, starting today, use the simple remedies mentioned above to get you back on the track to beautiful, strong nails.
