Causes, Solutions & the Role of Proper Nail Cutting
Brittle nails are a common concern that can signal underlying health issues or simply result from daily habits. Nails that split, crack, or peel easily can be frustrating and even painful. The good news? With the right care and the right tools, you can restore strength and resilience to your nails.
What Causes Brittle Nails?
Many factors contribute to brittle nails, and pinpointing the exact cause can be a challenge. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, most cases of brittle fingernails are due to external factors. A good rule of thumb: if your fingernails are brittle but your toenails remain strong, the cause is likely environmental. If both are brittle, an internal factor may be to blame.
The Two Types of Brittle Nails:
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Soft and Brittle:
This type is typically caused by overexposure to moisture. Frequent use of nail polish remover (especially those containing acetone), dishwashing liquids, and cleaning products can weaken the nail structure over time.
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Dry and Brittle:
Often the result of repeated cycles of wetting and drying, this type is common in dry climates or during the colder months when humidity levels are low. Dryness causes nails to become fragile and prone to breaking.
When It’s an Internal Issue:
- A lack of essential nutrients like biotin, iron, and protein can significantly impact nail health. These building blocks are critical for strong, flexible nails.
- Conditions such as hypothyroidism, anemia, and other systemic health issues can also manifest through brittle or weakened nails.
- As we age, our fingernails naturally become more brittle, while toenails have a tendency to harden. Little can be done to strengthen age-related brittle nails, but steps can be taken to prevent splitting and cracking.
Solutions for Stronger Nails
Once you have pinned down what is causing your brittle nails, you can begin to take steps to strengthen them. While the root cause of some nail brittleness cannot be solved, steps can be taken to lessen the negative impact.
- Apply hand creams or cuticle oils daily to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
- When doing household chores, especially those involving water or harsh chemicals, use gloves to shield your nails and hands.
- Foods high in biotin (like eggs and almonds), iron (such as leafy greens and lentils), and protein all play a role in growing stronger nails from within.
- Choose acetone-free nail polish removers and gentle, non-drying soaps. Giving your nails a break from polish can also be beneficial.
- Brittle nails are more prone to breakage the longer they are. Cut your nails short while still ensuring they cover the nail bed.
- If you're a frequent picker or biter, you could be damaging your nail bed, resulting in infection and uneven growth.
- Avoid picking or removing cuticles; they play an important role in nail health and protecting against infection.
How EDJY Nail Cutters Can Help
For those with brittle nails, even routine trimming can be uncomfortable and risky. Traditional nail clippers utilize a jaw mechanism that fractures and cracks the nail between their dull blades instead of delivering a clean, smooth cut. Traditional clippers can heighten the risk of painful cracking and splitting associated with brittle nails.
- EDJY’s sharp, single-blade design delivers clean, precise cuts that reduce the chances of snags and splits.
- Regular trimming with a precision cutter helps minimize breakage and supports uniform nail growth.
- Traditional clippers often crush or tear the nail instead of slicing cleanly. The EDJY Fingernail Cutter's sharp blade cleanly cuts with minimal force to reduce stress on fragile nails.
If you have regularly struggled with brittle nails and the cracks and splits that come with them, a premium nail cutter could be the solution you've been looking for. Especially if you regularly pick or bite, the clean, healthy cuts from the EDJY Fingernail Cutter could be just what you need to break the habit.
When to See a Doctor
Nail health can often reflect what's happening inside your body. If your brittle nails are caused by internal factors, they may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. You should consult a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms alongside brittle nails:
- Pitting or streaks in the nail
- Changes in the shape of the nail
- Swelling or pain around the nail
- Changes in nail color or texture
- Nail deformities or detachment
If home remedies and lifestyle changes aren’t improving your nail health, your doctor may recommend further testing or discuss options like biotin supplements to support stronger nail growth.
The Right Tool Matters
Choosing a high-quality nail cutter like EDJY’s can be a game-changer for anyone dealing with brittle nails. It not only reduces the risk of damage but also supports healthier, stronger nail growth over time.
Invest in your nail health. Start with the tool designed to care, not compromise.
