Why Are Your Nails So Brittle? Discover the 10 Key Causes

Wednesday, November 20, 2024  Read time2 min

SAEDNEWS: There are several factors that cause nails to become brittle and thin. In this article, we have gathered the 10 main causes of brittle nails, which you can read below.

Why Are Your Nails So Brittle? Discover the 10 Key Causes

According to SAEDNEWS, There are several factors that cause nails to become brittle and thin. Some of these factors include the following:

What causes nails to become brittle?

Nail styling

Cosmetic procedures on nails (such as manicures and pedicures, the use of artificial nails, and nail extensions) can damage the nails and make them brittle.

Nail styling

Aging

As we age, the likelihood of anemia increases, and naturally, the strength of nails will decrease over time. Older individuals typically have more brittle nails compared to younger ones.

Long Nails

You’ve probably noticed that nails are more prone to breaking when they are long, compared to when they are short. One of the common causes of nail breakage is their length, as it reduces the initial support surface, leading to breakage.

Long Nails

Excessive Contact with Objects

In some professions, tasks are performed using the hands. In these types of jobs, nails may break due to friction, or they may gradually become thinner and weaker due to constant exposure to strong cleaning agents.

Skin Problems

If your skin faces issues, such as a fungal infection on the hands, these problems can damage the nails and make them brittle

Constant Damage

Frequent hand washing and contact with cleaning agents can cause serious and permanent damage to the nails. Washing hands or dishes removes moisture from the nails, leading to dryness. Most people living in hot and dry areas tend to experience dry nails. This condition also occurs in the winter when people start using heaters or radiators, affecting many individuals.

Vitamin Deficiency

Nutrition plays a very important role in maintaining healthy and beautiful nails. A deficiency in nutrients such as iron, zinc, and various vitamins like A, B, C, etc., can make nails brittle, and in many cases, the skin around the nails will peel.

Vitamin

Permanent Nail Polish Removal

Simply applying nail polish doesn't cause nails to become thin and brittle. However, since acetone is needed to remove nail polish, frequent use of acetone can lead to brittle nails. One reason acetone causes brittleness is that it keeps the nails overly moist. People who also use other moisturizers may experience nail brittleness due to excess moisture

Nail Polish Removal

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders disrupt the balance of hormones, which in turn causes problems with the absorption of minerals in the body. In such cases, nails often begin to separate from their base.

Anemia

If you suffer from anemia due to iron deficiency, untreated, you may experience brittle and damaged nails. It is recommended to get a blood test to check for anemia and confirm its cause.