Buzz
Curious about the root cause of your cracked nails? Everyday items like strong shampoos or hair products that touch your hands could be the culprits.
Photos.com/ThinkstockCracked nails can be unattractive, irritating, and sometimes painful. To address the issue effectively, it’s important to identify the real causes. Around 20% of people suffer from brittle nails, with women and older adults being more susceptible. Contrary to popular belief, consuming more gelatin or taking iron supplements won’t necessarily solve the problem. In most cases, cracked nails stem from external factors like excessive use of nail polish or remover, frequent swimming, or prolonged exposure to water.
Now that we’ve identified the causes, here are the solutions:
- Trim: Minimize damage by keeping your nails short and filing the edges into a rounded shape. Since nails grow slowly—no more than 0.12 inches (3 millimeters) per month—avoid snagging them. Full nail regrowth can take anywhere from three to six months.
- Moisturize: Cracked nails often result from dryness. Apply a nourishing moisturizer to your nails and cuticles nightly to maintain their strength and flexibility. Look for products containing keratin, collagen, occlusives like petrolatum or lanolin, and humectants such as urea or lactic acid.
- Avoid chemicals: Harsh cleaning agents and certain dishwashing liquids can weaken your nails. While you can’t avoid cleaning altogether, opt for gentler products and reduce direct contact.
- Consider gloves: Frequent exposure to chemicals or water calls for protective gloves. Plastic or latex gloves are effective, but if they feel uncomfortable, try rubber gloves with a cotton lining for better comfort.
- Limit remover: Overusing nail polish remover, especially acetone-based ones, can lead to brittle nails. Limit use to once every two weeks or choose acetone-free alternatives.
In most cases, cracked nails are a cosmetic concern and don’t require medical intervention. Analyze your daily habits to identify potential causes. Sometimes, nails crack not because they’re too dry but because they’re too soft. Assess their condition and make necessary lifestyle adjustments. With a little care, you’ll soon restore your nails to a healthy, strong, and attractive state.
