Brittle nails are a very common problem that affects both men and women, compromising the aesthetics and health of the hands. Weak nails tend to break, flake and lose their natural elasticity. Nail fragility can result from external factors or from internal nutritional deficiencies. Let us find out together the main causes and the most effective remedies to strengthen nails.
The structure of the nail
Nails are mainly made up of keratin and develop from a nail matrix located at the base of the finger. The visible part, called the nail plate, is composed of several overlapping layers of keratin, which provide strength and elasticity. The natural nail polish protects the surface, keeping it shiny and smooth. Cuticles are thin layers of skin located at the base of the nail that act as a protective barrier against bacteria and external agents, preventing infection and maintaining the integrity of the nail matrix.
When healthy, the nail has a pinkish colour due to the presence of blood vessels in the nail bed, the part of the skin located under the nail plate, which is responsible for nourishing and supporting nail growth. The colour of the nails is an early sign of health: when the nail is yellowish in colour, it often indicates the presence of fungal infections, while a whitish colour can be a sign of anaemia or liver problems.
Fingernails grow continuously, at varying speeds depending on age, season (it is faster in summer) and position in the body: hand nails grow faster than toenails. With advancing age, growth slows down due to various factors:
- Reduced blood flow: with ageing, peripheral circulation tends to decrease, reducing the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to the nail matrix, on which nail growth depends.
- Hormonal alterations: hormonal changes associated with ageing, particularly the reduction of oestrogen in pregnant or menopausal women, can adversely affect nail growth.
- Less hydration and elasticity: with age, the skin and nails tend to lose hydration, becoming drier and less elastic, which affects their ability to grow.
The causes of brittle nails
As we have seen, nails are mainly composed of keratin, a protein that gives strength and elasticity to the nail plate. Their fragility can depend on several factors, including:
- External causes: frequent use of aggressive nail polish solvents, prolonged contact with water and detergents or chemicals, use of gels or semi-permanent nail polishes without adequate rest periods and without proper hydration.
- Climate characteristics: exposure to cold or very dry climates, which reduce the natural hydration of the nail. In winter, for example, the transition from heated environments to cold outside temperatures can cause even more dehydration, favouring the appearance of cracks and brittleness. Dry climates typical of some areas, such as inland areas of islands and areas exposed to dry winds, also contribute to moisture loss, altering the keratin structure.
- Nutritional deficiencies: deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals such as:
- Calcium: Calcium is an invaluable ally for nails as it is involved in the regulation of enzymes and proteins essential for nail growth and works in synergy with vitamin D, which facilitates its absorption.
- Iron: its deficiency simanifest with a concave nail plate, which takes on a hollow, spoon-like shape (coilonichia). If the underlying cause is not addressed, it can be persistent.
- Zinc: in the case of deficiency, Beau’s lines, i.e. horizontal furrows crossing the nail plate, may appear. They are caused by a temporary slowdown in nail growth. As the nail grows, the groove moves towards the tip of the nail. Although Beau’s lines do not usually cause symptoms, in some cases they can be painful or annoying, especially when the grooves are particularly deep and compromise the integrity of the nail plate.
- Selenium: is an essential trace element with a strong antioxidant action, which helps protect nails from oxidative stress and cell damage.
- Biotin: also known as vitamin B8 in Italian and French nomenclature, vitamin B7 in Anglo-Saxon nomenclature or vitamin H in German nomenclature, it is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in healthy nails, hair and skin.
- Vitamin B5. As a precursor of coenzyme A, vitamin B5 promotes keratin production, helping to improve nail strength and structure, making them more resistant to breaking.
- Onychophagy: Onychophagy, i.e. the habit of nail biting, can contribute to nail fragility. This compulsive behaviour leads to constant mechanical damage to the nail plate, making it weaker and more prone to breakage. Furthermore, onychophagy can expose nails to bacterial and fungal infections, further deteriorating their health and structure.
- Physiological and pathological characteristics: certain conditions and diseases, such as nail psoriasis or thyroid disorders, can weaken the nail structure. Almost all people suffering from hypothyroidism have thin, weak, small nails with slow growth. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, in which the immune system attacks the matrix and nail bed, causing obvious damage to the lamina. Fungal infections also damage the nails. When mycosis attacks the nails we speak of onychomycosis. This is a rather common condition that mainly affects the toenails, due to the warm-humid environment that favours the proliferation of fungi. The nails break easily and are yellowed and deformed.
Since brittle nails can be a symptom of underlying diseases, if the disorder persists, it is important to seek medical advice on the most suitable treatment, which could include specific drugs or supplements to improve nail strength.
Prevention and treatment of brittle nails
Strengthening nails requires a combined approach involving local treatments and proper nutritional supplementation. Here are the main remedies:
Hydration and protection
Moisturising is essential to keep nails elastic and strong. To protect the nail plate, specific products can be applied to the nails based on:
- Urea and mandelic acid, which help to keep the nail moisturised.
- Chitosan, which forms an invisible protective film on the nail surface, improving nail strength.
- Millet extract, rich in minerals and vitamins useful for nail health and well-being.
To protect and strengthen them, it can be useful to apply a hardening cream or treatment, available in pharmacies, and to follow proper hygiene, just as one would do for facial care, without neglecting protection from external agents such as sunlight.
Nutrition and supplementation
Following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, choosing the right foods, is essential for maintaining healthy, strong nails. However, when food alone is not enough to ensure an adequate supply of essential elements, supplements can provide valuable support. Among the most important nutrients for healthy nails are:
- Sulphur amino acids (L-Cystine, L-Methionine): essential for the production of keratin, the main protein in nails.
- Iron, copper, zinc and selenium. A deficiency of these trace elements can lead to flaking and slow growth. Copper, zinc and selenium also contribute to maintaining nail health by protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid: important for growth and strengthening of the nail plate as it plays a key role in keratin production.
- Biotin: essential for keratin synthesis, a deficiency can lead to weakening of the nails.
- Ubidecarenone (coenzyme Q10) and Glutathione: powerful antioxidants that protect nails from free radical damage.
Good habits for strong, healthy nails
In addition to specific treatments, taking care of your nails with small daily gestures can make all the difference:
- Avoid direct contact with aggressive detergents and solvents by wearing protective gloves.
- File the nails with a cardboard file, avoiding metal tools that can cause micro-shocks.
- Do not remove cuticles aggressively, by tearing them, so as not to alter the natural protection of the nail.
- Make nourishing compresses, using natural oils such as jojoba or sweet almond oil.
Brittle nails can be the alarm bell of a body in need of care and attention. To make them stronger and more resilient, it is essential to follow a targeted beauty routine, nourish them from within with the right nutrients and protect them from external agents. With perseverance and an optimal manicure, they will regain their natural beauty and vitality.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31749091/
