Everyone can see your nails when you are at work and in other public places. Their condition also determines how comfortably you perform a variety of daily activities and tasks. For these reasons, it is really bothersome when they become fragile and weak. In order to receive the proper treatment, you need to have a clear idea about the cause of the problem. Learn more about the main causes of nail brittleness.
Too Much Treatment
If you use nail polish and acetone-based polish remover frequently, these treatments may be the cause of the nail fragility and weakness. Acetone, in particular, is highly damaging and must be avoided at all costs. There are natural nail polish removers which are safer and do an equally good job. In general, if you want to improve the condition of your nails, you should leave them without treatments until they are restored completely. Additionally, you should apply topical nail strengthening treatments only if they have been recommended by your doctor.
Exposure to Chemicals
If you wash the dishes and clean the house without wearing protective rubber gloves, your nails can get easily damaged by the chemicals that you use. Most cleaning products are rich in powerful compounds which destroy dirt, grease, rust and other accumulations. These compounds can easily harm the nail structure. You should get appropriate treatment and remember to out the protective gloves on any time when you do housework which involves the use of chemicals.
Aging
Doctors say that this is one of the most common causes of fragile and brittle nails, especially in women. Researchers have found a link between the hormonal changes during menopause and the condition of the nails. In this case, the general menopausal treatment will help to restore them as well. All other holistic antiaging practices such as healthy eating, stress reduction and exercise for proper blood circulation will also help a lot.
Medical Conditions
Since all organs and tissues in the body are connected in a complex system, a condition which affects one organ will impact other ones as well. This explains why people with certain liver, kidney, lung and heart conditions have fragile and brittle nails. In such cases, when the main condition is treated effectively, the nails will regain their strength.
Vitamin B Deficiency
Since vitamin B-complex is essential for the strength of the nails, its low concentration in the body leads to their brittleness. It is worth pointing out, however, that this type of deficiency is generally quite rare. A doctor will be able to diagnose it and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Fungal Infections
These types of infections typically affect the toenails, but in rare cases they may affect the fingernails as well. The brittleness is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as discoloration and thickening. Appropriate antifungal treatment must be adopted once the condition has been diagnosed.
You should take all appropriate measures for treating your fragile and weak nails. During the treatment, you should try to keep them short for best results and maximum comfort. You will also benefit from adopting a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water.