Brittle or Fragile Nails: What Your Body May Be Trying to Tell You
Brittle or fragile nails are common and are often caused by everyday factors such as frequent handwashing or aging. In some cases, however, they may be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Common Causes of Brittle Nails
1. Frequent Exposure to Water and Chemicals
Repeated handwashing, cleaning products, and nail polish removers can dry out nails, making them more likely to split or peel.
What to do:
- Wear gloves when cleaning.
- Use a moisturizing hand cream regularly.
- Limit use of harsh nail products.
2. Aging
As people get older, nails naturally become drier and more brittle.
What to do:
- Keep nails trimmed.
- Moisturize nails and cuticles daily.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Brittle nails can sometimes be associated with low levels of certain nutrients, such as:
- Iron
- Vitamin B12
- Zinc
- Protein
Most people can get these nutrients through a balanced diet. Supplements should only be used if a deficiency is confirmed or recommended by a healthcare professional.
4. Thyroid Disorders
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause:
- Dry skin
- Brittle nails
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Feeling unusually cold
If you have several of these symptoms, it’s worth discussing them with your healthcare provider.
5. Fungal Nail Infection
If a nail becomes:
- Thickened
- Yellow or white
- Crumbly
- Distorted
A fungal infection may be the cause and may require medical treatment
