Systemic issues
Toenails can crack because of an underlying systemic disease including but not limited to rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, anemia, psoriasis, eczema, and peripheral vascular disease.Nail splitting may also be caused by nail cosmetics (hardeners, polish, polish removers/solvents), nail procedures, and occupational exposure to various chemicals (alkalis, acids, cement, solvents, thioglycolates, salt, sugar solutions). Injury (trauma) may also play a role in the development of brittle nails.
- A deficiency in B-complex vitamins, especially biotin, will produce ridges along the nail bed. - A diet lacking in calcium contributes to dry, brittle nails. - A lack of folic acid and vitamin C can lead to hangnails. - Insufficient dietary essential oils, like omega-3, cause cracking.
Brittleness of the nails, meaning that the nails easily become cracked, chipped, split, or peeled, can be observed as a sign of aging or in response to the long-term use of nail polish or exposure to moist conditions (including frequent swimming or dishwashing).
Onychoschizia, commonly known as nail splitting but also known as onychoschisis or lamellar dystrophy, is a condition that causes horizontal splits within the nail plate. Brittle nails may occur due to medical problems, including gland (endocrine system) diseases, tuberculosis, Sjögren syndrome, and malnutrition.
After a nail separates from the nail bed for whatever reason, it will not reattach. A new nail will have to grow back in its place. Nails grow back slowly. It takes about 6 months for a fingernail and up to 18 months for a toenail to grow back.
Moisture can cause nails to become weak and brittle. Long-term exposure can cause the skin around the nail to soften. The nail itself becomes brittle making it easier to break, bend, or split. Overexposure to moisture can occur while doing dishes, washing hands, or repeated nail polish use.
Plenty of nutrients in food can help your nails, taking them from dry and brittle to healthy and strong. Foods that can improve your nails include fruits, lean meats, salmon, leafy greens, beans, eggs, nuts, and whole grains.
A. Some changes in nails can be a sign of an underlying health problem, but the lengthwise nail ridging you describe is usually not one. The nails may separate at the tips in thin layers, peeling like layers of an onion, a condition called onychoschizia. If the nails are ridged and brittle, they may split lengthwise.
It will take some time, possibly 6months - 1year, but it can grow back healthily, without the split. Its a good idea to purchase a good cuticle oil such as Solar oil & massage this into the cuticle to stimulate cell regeneration & circulation which will aid the healing of the nail.
What can I do about brittle nails?
- Look for moisturizing hand lotions that contain lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids. You can also buy lanolin-rich nail conditioners online.
- Moisturize your hands after washing.
- Before going to bed, moisturize your hands, feet, and nails to keep them hydrated as you sleep.
Brittle nails occur for a variety of reasons. They may be a normal sign of aging or the result of polishing your nails too frequently. When the weather is cold, brittle nails may result from dryness. Weak nails also can be signs of a health issue, such as hypothyroidism or anemia.
A split nail is usually caused by physical stress, nutrient deficiency, or wear and tear. Split nails can be a problem, especially if you work with your hands. Although split nails are completely normal and sometimes unavoidable, there are ways you can prevent split nails in the future.
