Brittle nails are a widespread concern that affects people irrespective of gender or age. This piece explores the origins, signs, and remedies for brittle nails, providing valuable guidance to combat this common issue.
Why Do Brittle Nails Occur? The brittleness of nails can be traced back to diverse causes, from constant exposure to water, aggressive chemicals, and nail cosmetics. Nutrient insufficiencies like insufficient iron, biotin, and vitamin C, can contribute to frail nails. Medical conditions, such as thyroid imbalances and fungal infections, can also lead to weakened nails.
Lack of Essential Nutrients
One major villain behind brittle nails? The absence key nutrients, especially biotin, iron, and zinc. Biotin, or Vitamin B7, is key to a sturdy nail structure. While a shortfall of iron can cause thin, fragile nails, a lack of zinc can show up as white spots or streaks on your nails.
Falling Short on Hydrating
Those weak and brittle nails might be your body’s cry for hydration. If water levels in your body are running low, your nails might turn dry and snap easily. Hydration isn’t just the secret to great overall health, but robust nails too!
Hormonal Upsets
Brittle nails in women can be a ripple effect of hormonal imbalances. Changes in hormone levels during phases like pregnancy or menopause can disarm your nails and increase their vulnerability. To bolster nail health, any hormonal issues should be looked into with the right medical support.
Hidden Health Conditions
Other health troublemakers like hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and fungal infections can also produce brittle nails. Hypothyroidism can put the brakes on nail growth and cause them to turn brittle. Meanwhile, psoriasis may sabotage the nail bed, altering the nail’s texture and shade. Fungal infections can leave nails brittle, discoloured, and on the verge of crumbling.
Run-ins with Harsh Chemicals
Regular run-ins with severe chemicals in cleaning products, nail polish removers, and detergents can strip nails of their natural oil shield, eventually making them dry and brittle. Don’t forget gloves when dealing with such substances to keep those nails safe from harm.
Breaking the mystery of why your nails are weak and brittle is key to successfully nipping this common problem in the bud. Filling nutritional gaps, prioritising hydration, balancing hormones, treating hidden health issues, and dodging harsh chemicals can fortify the nails and improve their look. Paying attention to nail health not only punches up your look but also offers a window into your overall health. With an all-around approach to nail care, your nails will not only be strong and healthy but will reflect your complete health and vigor.
