Healthy nails don’t only look appealing but they are also a prime indicator of a healthy body. However, brittle and weak nails are a common occurrence in both men and women. Taking the right care of your nails and trying ways to strengthen them can help prevent brittle nails. A few steps taken towards maintain your overall health ad choosing better lifestyle options can offer you the best nails, explains Dr. Pavithra. Here are the details about brittle nails, causes and treatments as explained by Dr, Pavithra, a leading dermatologist associated with Skin Beauty Pal.
What are brittle nails & common causes?
Brittle nails are a condition in which individuals experience splitting, peeling, or weak nails. There are several reasons that can lead to brittle nails condition. From weather changes to frequent nail pain application and even lack of proper diet intake can make your nails weak. However, the most persistent reason for brittle nails is poor dietary habits. Deficiency of Vitamins and minerals in the body can cause nail weakness and hence you experience frequently splitting and peeling nails.
“Some underlying health conditions such as hypothyroidism or anemia can also lead to nail weakness of brittle nails”, says Dr. Pavithra.
Best treatment for brittle nails
“Take good care of your nails and eat a healthy diet”, asserts Dr. Pavithra. There are no clinical treatments to get rid of nail weakness or brittle nails condition. You need to be very careful about your diet and ensure that you consume a balanced diet rich in minerals (primarily Calcium), Vitamins (especially Vitamin A) and antioxidants.
Add calcium and Vitamin A-rich food to your diet. Meat, fish and chicken intake also helps boost nail health. Also, keep a close check on your proteins, iron and zinc intake.
Another inexpensive way of taking care of your nails and preventing brittle nails is moisturizers. Just like you take care of your hands, taking the right care of nails and its hydration needs is important. Especially in winter, when the weather is dry, you may experience more brittle nails than ever. The lack of hydration causes nails t get weak and dry out resulting in peeling and splitting.
Apply a high-quality moisturizer on your nails, preferably at night and let it sit overnight. You must also moisturize your nails every now and then during the day.
Paraffin wax is also a great way to restore the moisture levels in your nails and prevent brittleness. For preventive care, use gloves when washing clothes and dishes and/ or dealing with any harsh chemicals.
You may also consult a professional dermatologist and get advice about the right manicures. Do not trust any random spa or beauty salon to guide you to a health-boosting manicure option.
Nails are a prime indicator of your overall health. If they are brittle, there is some deficiency in your body which may also lead to other skin problems and health concerns. Make sure you reach out to a dermatologist and get the right advice for nail care.
