Top

Reasons for Brittle Nails

August 3, 2009


A lot of women have brittle nails. However much they may try to keep their nails well shaped and tapering, they find that their nails either break off easily or peel off in layers. How do you get rid of this problem? You first need to locate the exact cause for your condition.

Causes- Physical trauma may be the commonest cause for breaking off your nails. You can accidentally break your nails while doing simple things like opening a can or working in the kitchen. Use a glass or emery board while filing your nails instead of metal boards. A habit of chewing on your nails will often leave your nails stunted and hamper their normal growth.
Washing your hands frequently with water and detergents may soften your nails considerably. If you neglect drying your hands properly you may be susceptible to infections as well as brittle nails.

Too much exposure to harsh chemicals like benzene and oxidizing agents is harmful. Nail polish removers may also cause your nails to break off. You need to avoid acetone based removers in order to protect your nails. Try to confine using nail polish removers to once a week. It is best to wear gloves when working with chemicals. This will help to protect your nails.

Skin diseases like psoriasis and  lichen planus often result in brittleness of the nails. Tuberculosis, endocrine disorders or Sjogren’s syndrome may also affect your nails. Your nails will also show the effects if you lack proper nutrition.

It has been observed that brittle nails are more common in women than men. Reduced Estrogen levels are also manifested by brittle nails. Exposure to the dry hot air of room heaters in the winter may also cause the problem. Moisturizing your nails regularly may help to prevent the dryness of your nails.

Your nails may have a ridged look if you suffer from vitamin B deficiency. An absence of folic acid and Vitamin C may also make your nails crack and chip easily. Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals may help you to overcome this problem.


Comments

Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.





What's More today?

Curing Diarrhea in Children

Diarrhea is a very common ailment in children. Suffering from diarrhea can be quite exhausting and a... 

Preventing Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is more common in summer as due to the heat the tendency for food to go bad is much higher.... 

Benefits of Steam Inhalation

Steam inhalation is one of the oldest and more natural remedies to ease nasal congestion as well as chest... 

Iron Deficiency In Children

It is not necessary that iron deficiency always lead to anemia. Nowadays, more and more parents are becoming... 

The Importance of Care for the Kidneys

The kidneys are most essential to the body as they help in cleaning the body. To keep the kidneys in... 

Facts You Need to Know About Hypertension

Most people misunderstand the disease called hypertension. People often think that hypertension is being... 

When Your Backache Needs a Doctor

Sometimes, when people suffer from back pain, a little bit of rest and care will relieve them of the... 

When Too Much Water Becomes Poisonous

Water is known to be the cheapest, most effective natural cleanser for the body. You will read enough... 

Why Women Are More Likely to Suffer Back Pain

In the case of women, pain in the lower back will last longer and is most likely related to work or health... 

Actual Facts About Heart Disease

Heart disease is so common, and is such a threat today that it is widely spoken about, and there is plenty... 

Are You Likely To Have A Heart Attack?

Nowadays more and more people are suffering from heart attacks. It is not only the old, but the young... 

Before and After a Bypass Surgery

You may need a to have a planned bypass or an emergency one. If it is a planned bypass then you will... 

Protect your Feet if you have Diabetes

Diabetes also causes problems with the feet. This is more common in those who are over 40 and have diabetes.... 

The Difference Between Heartburn and Heart attacks

Most people are confused between heartburn and heart attacks. Any pain in or around the chest needs... 

What Loss of Vision Could Spell For You

Everyone has a blind spot. We all notice that there is something which escapes our eye at some point.... 

Bottom