Do you feel like your nails are always brittle and prone to breaking, no matter how careful you are? Why does this happen, what can you do to make your nails stronger and more resistant?
Nails are an important part of our body, which not only fulfill aesthetic functions, but also they protect fingertips and contribute to our sense of touch.
Nail health is strongly related to our overall health and well-being. Nails they grow an average of 3 mm per month, but this rate can vary based on age, sex, season, diet and genetic factors.
The main causes of nail breakage
Food
Nails need a variety of nutrients to maintain their strength and health. Deficiency of vitamins and minerals such as biotin, iron, zinc and vitamin E can cause nails to become brittle and break. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients is the foundation for strong and healthy nails.
Chemical exposure
Frequent use of nail polishes, nail polish removers, and other aggressive chemicals can dry out and weaken nails. Prolonged exposure to water and detergents without the protection of gloves can also have a negative effect on the nails.
Physical injuries
Nails can be damaged by physical stress, such as excessive filing, nail biting, or using nails as tools. This can lead to splitting and breakage.
Health issues
Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, psoriasis, and fungal infections, can affect the quality and strength of nails. In such cases, it is important to address the underlying medical condition to improve nail health.
Tips for strengthening nails
1. Stay hydrated
Drink enough water every day to keep your entire body, including your nails, hydrated.
2. A balanced diet
Include foods rich in biotin (eggs, nuts, seeds, fish), iron (red meat, spinach, lentils), zinc (meat, fish, nuts) and vitamin E (sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach) in your diet.
3. Use nourishing oils
Apply nail and cuticle care oils regularly to keep nails and the skin around them soft and moist.
4. Limit the use of nail polishes and removers
Use gentle nail polishes and avoid frequent use of acetone-based nail polish removers, which dry out the nails.
5. Wear gloves
Wear gloves when doing housework or using cleaners that contain chemicals to protect the nails and skin of your hands from drying out and damage.
6. Gentle manicure
Avoid aggressive filing and nail biting. File them gently.
7. Prevent injuries
Use nails as a tool judiciously to prevent physical damage.
8. Protect your nails from the cold
In the colder months, use hand and nail moisturizer as cold weather can further dry out and weaken nails.
