Brittle fingernails are a condition that people of all ages and genders can experience. Fortunately, there are several methods to deal with nail problems and restore them to a healthy and strong state.
One of the first things to consider if you have brittle nails is your daily routine. People who have their hands in water several times a day are particularly susceptible to problems with their fingernails, and even washing dishes by hand several times a day can lead to this condition. The solution is to cover the hands with rubber gloves. They can be purchased at any supermarket or drugstore, and will effectively protect the nails from absorbing large amounts of water during the course of the daily routine. For individuals who perform tasks that require the hands to be in water for extended periods, consider wearing a thin pair of cotton gloves underneath the rubber gloves. The cotton will absorb perspiration from the hands and prevent the moisture from collecting around the nails.
Poor nutrition can also cause brittle nails, so a healthier diet can provide a solution. Biotin is a nutrient that promotes the health of nails, and can be found in several vegetables, most notably cauliflower and lentils. Foods rich in vitamin A, potassium, phosphorus, and niacin are also helpful. In the way of herbal remedies, horsetail is often considered to be an excellent source of necessary vitamins and minerals to combat nail problems.
Having a manicure can also help, and keeping the nails trimmed and makes it less likely that the nails will crack or tear. Trimming your nails shortly after a bath or shower will result in a more even cut, which in turn will cut down on the chance that the nails will snag on fabrics or some other material and cause the brittle nail to split.
Making it a point to massage your fingertips at least a couple of times a day can help improve the flow of blood around the nails. Increased circulation will allow the nails to absorb nutrients easier and promote the production of nails that are healthy. If the nails are very dry, using a moisturizer as part of the massage will also help to add the right kind of moisture to the nail during the process.
You may also want to avoid a few personal habits if you experience brittle nails. Tapping the nails on hard surfaces promotes growth, but that new growth is often weaker and takes some time to toughen up, making breaks and tears much more common. In similar manner, biting your nails can make them more brittle as well. The trauma to the nails, coupled with the rough edges that are left behind, creates the perfect environment for the nails to become brittle.
