Brittle Fingernails Causes

Nails tend to become brittle with age. This is quite normal, but nails getting brittle at a young age is certainly a cause for concern. Brittle nails are weak and hence are prone to damage. The nails tend to break easily without much effort. Nails that appear dry, brittle, and weak are unattractive. So, determining the cause and resolving the issue as early as possible is important to prevent further deterioration of nails.

Causes

A person having brittle nails indicates deficiency of calcium and vitamin A. However, there are other factors that can affect the nail's health negatively. For instance, lack of proper care may weaken and damage the nails.

Detergents: Advertisements that promote detergents, are often misleading. Although these detergents may help to eliminate tough stains from utensils and clothes, their usage can cause harm to the fingernails. These products are loaded with harsh chemicals, and direct exposure of fingernails to these detergents can make the fingernails brittle and weak.

Nail Polish: Although this cosmetic product can enhance the beauty of fingernails, it can also contribute to brittle nails. 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.

Nail Polish Remover: 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 lead to dry and brittle nails.

Unhealthy Diet: Poor nutrition can adversely affect the nail's health as well. So, when the diet is deficient in nutrients like vitamins and minerals, it can negatively affect the nails.

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

Infections: Deficiencies 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. There are quite a few nail diseases that are a result of fingernail fungal infection or bacterial infections. Discoloration of nail bed and swelling of the tissue that surrounds the nail is commonly associated with nail diseases.

Diseases: Research has proved that certain diseases that affect the liver and the kidneys can make the fingernails brittle. Even skin conditions like psoriasis may damage the nails.

Water: Excessive exposure to water during long hot baths can eventually make the nails brittle. Playing in water for long periods of time cause brittle fingernails as well.

Tips for Healthy Fingernails

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 an easy way 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. A well-balanced diet can definitely help to overcome nail abnormalities. Keeping the body hydrated, by drinking plenty of water, will also prevent dryness in nails. Using organic nail products is equally important so as to avoid developing brittle nails. When using detergents, it is essential to wear gloves to keep the nails away from harsh chemicals.

Most of aforementioned brittle fingernails causes are avoidable by following certain precautionary measures. Keep in mind that although nails do not cause any pain after cutting them, brittle nails that are vulnerable to infection, may become a source of great discomfort in the long run.