The health and strength of our nails often reflect our overall well-being. Brittle nails, characterized by their lack of elasticity, easy breakage, and alterations in shape and structure, can be a cause of concern. This condition can manifest in various forms, such as vertical streaks and fissures (onychorrhexis) or uniform thinning that tends to unravel from the outer layers towards the deeper ones (lamellar onychoschizia). The prevalence of brittle nails is higher in certain demographics, and the condition can be either transitory or persistent.
Causes of Brittle Nails
Brittle nails, or onychoschizia, can result from a variety of factors that weaken the nail structure. Some of the most common causes include:
Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E, can impair nail health. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to weak, splitting, or peeling nails.
Physical Trauma: Repeated physical stress or trauma to the nails, such as nail biting, frequent manicures, or the use of harsh tools, can damage the nail bed and weaken the nail plate over time.
Exposure to Chemicals: Frequent contact with harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents, detergents, or nail polish removers containing acetone, can strip moisture from the nails, making them more prone to brittleness. Even prolonged exposure to water, as in frequent handwashing or swimming, can weaken nails by causing them to swell and dry out.
Allergens: Allergic reactions to certain nail care products (e.g., nail polish, adhesives for artificial nails) can also cause nail damage and contribute to brittleness.
Excessive Use of Medications: Overuse of certain medications, including those not prescribed by a healthcare professional, can disrupt nail growth and lead to fragility. For example, some acne medications or chemotherapy drugs may have side effects that affect nail health.
Metabolic Disorders: Conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can interfere with the body’s ability to maintain healthy nails.
Autoimmune Diseases: Disorders like lupus and psoriasis may cause nail brittleness, as they attack various parts of the body, including the nails.
Infectious Diseases: Fungal or bacterial infections of the nail bed can weaken nails and contribute to fragility.
Genetic Conditions: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to brittle nails, inherited through conditions like ectodermal dysplasia.
Vascular Disorders: Poor circulation, often seen in people with vascular diseases, can reduce nutrient delivery to the nails, resulting in poor nail health.
Management and Prevention of Brittle Nails
Identifying the root cause of brittle nails is the first step towards managing this condition. In the absence of other symptoms, it is possible to intervene without medical consultation. Here are some strategies that can help:
Balanced Diet: Ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, E, C, B6, and minerals like iron, zinc, selenium, copper, phosphorus, and calcium can significantly improve the health of your nails. These nutrients are essential for nail strength and growth.
Limit Physical Trauma and Chemical Exposure: Protect your nails from physical damage and exposure to harsh chemicals. This includes avoiding aggressive manicure techniques and minimizing contact with detergents, solvents, and allergenic substances.
Avoid Unnecessary Medications: Limit the use of non-prescribed medications, as certain drugs can affect the health and strength of your nails.
If the condition of your nails is associated with other symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may involve medications or therapies specific to the associated disease.
Dietary Recommendations
A balanced diet plays an essential role in maintaining nail health. Here are some dietary recommendations:
Vitamin A: Found in offal, cheese, animal fat, crustaceans, and orange fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin E: Present in the lipid portion of many seeds and related oils.
Vitamin C: Typical of fruit and some acid vegetables.
Vitamin B6: Contained in meat, offal, some fish, unrefined cereals, legumes, and nuts.
Iron, Zinc, and Selenium: Found in offal, meat, fishery products, and egg yolk.
Copper: Mainly contained in liver, shellfish, chocolate, and nuts.
Phosphorus and Calcium: Typical of milk and derivatives.
It is also advisable to avoid alcohol abuse, monothematic diets, vegan diets, diets free of vegetables and greens, and diets based exclusively on cooked or preserved foods.
Supplement for Stronger Nails
Food supplements containing vitamins and mineral salts can be beneficial. Among the most popular and effective options are supplements that include collagen, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane, an organic sulfur compound), cystine, calcium, silicon, zinc, copper, and various vitamin complexes.
Collagen: A structural protein crucial for maintaining skin elasticity, joint health, and muscle recovery. It is commonly used to improve skin hydration and reduce signs of aging, as well as support joint flexibility and repair.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, MSM helps reduce joint pain, improve skin health, and boost immune function. It also plays a role in collagen production and helps maintain the health of connective tissues.
Cystine: An amino acid that supports the production of keratin, a protein vital for healthy hair, skin, and nails. It also assists in detoxification processes and immune function.
Calcium: Essential for bone health, calcium is important not only for maintaining strong bones and teeth but also for muscle contraction, nerve function, and proper blood clotting.
Silicon: A trace mineral involved in collagen synthesis and the maintenance of skin, hair, and nails. It also supports bone health and may improve the strength and elasticity of connective tissues.
Zinc: A vital mineral for immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Zinc also contributes to maintaining healthy skin and supports reproductive health.
Copper: Essential for the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of healthy nerves and immune function. Copper also plays a role in collagen production and iron absorption.
Vitamin Complexes: Multivitamins or targeted vitamin blends (such as B-complex, Vitamin C, or D) can help bridge nutritional gaps, boost energy levels, support immune function, and promote overall vitality.
Pharmacological Treatments
Pharmacological treatments for brittle nails primarily focus on treating the underlying diseases responsible for the condition. These treatments can include corticosteroids, antihistamines, retinoids, antifungal drugs, hormone replacement therapy, and more.
Prevention
Preventing brittle nails involves a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and proper nail care. Here are some preventative measures:
Eat Adequately: Ensure that your diet is balanced and rich in essential nutrients.
Avoid Repeated Microtraumas: Protect your nails from physical damage.
Limit Exposure to Corrosive Chemicals: Avoid contact with harsh chemicals that can damage your nails.
Avoid Allergens: Minimize exposure to substances that can trigger allergic reactions.
Avoid Excessive Use of Medications: Limit the use of non-prescribed medications.
Proper Nail Care: Avoid biting your nails and opt for gentle manicure techniques.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact the health of your nails.
Remember, if you have persistent issues with nail fragility, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to identify and treat any underlying conditions.
