Brittle, scaly and cracked nails
If your nails are brittle, scaly and cracked, this problem is most likely due to environmental factors. So you can solve this problem by making small and simple changes in your lifestyle. For example, do not soak your hands and feet in water for very long periods of time, and be sure to dry them thoroughly after your hands or feet get wet. Use a mild soap to wash your hands and do not over-wash your hands. Try to avoid exposing your nails to chemicals such as strong varnishes and moisturize your nails regularly with cream.
But if nail fungus or psoriasis is the cause of your brittle nails, you need to treat it and the sooner you start treatment, the better the results. For the treatment of mild to moderate nail fungus, there are various creams, ointments and varnishes that can be obtained from pharmacies without a prescription. Another way to treat nail fungus is to use topical solutions for fungus and psoriasis. The special formulation of these solutions improves the appearance of the nail by hydrating it, smoothing the surface of the nail and reducing its discoloration. These changes will often be visible within two weeks. By penetrating the nail tissue, these solutions change the environmental conditions of the nail and prevent the growth of fungi.
In cases of severe nail fungus infection, topical treatments alone may not be effective, and your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications or laser treatment to remove the fungus.
How do I strengthen my nails?
The first step in treating and strengthening brittle nails is to eliminate the underlying causes of this problem and to take proper and proper care of the nails using the following methods:
Balanced diet
Having a balanced diet and consuming all the proteins, vitamins and minerals your body needs is very important for nail health. The role of biotin in the treatment of brittle nails is still debated, but the results of some research have shown that the use of this substance causes thickening of the nails.
Nail care
If your nails look dry, soak them in lukewarm water for 5 minutes every day and then apply a moisturizing cream to the nails and surrounding skin. You can use coconut oil or moisturizing hand creams for this purpose.
Avoid prolonged nail contact with water and detergents.
• Use gloves when doing household chores.
Trim your nails regularly, as long nails are more prone to damage.
• Do not overdo the use of lacquer and disinfectant solutions.
Wear appropriate shoes and always make sure that the front of the shoe has enough space for your toes.
Scrub your nails regularly to remove small fractures on the nail head, as small fractures can accelerate the process of complete nail breakage.
Nail polish: Some nail polishes on the market contain natural ingredients that are said to improve nail thickness. Of course, the effectiveness of these varnishes has not yet been fully evaluated.
When should I see a dermatologist?
You need to see a dermatologist if:
The above tips will not help treat your brittle nails.
Along with brittle nails, you have problems such as hair loss, anemia, extreme fatigue and other general symptoms.
Apart from brittle nails, you have noticed other symptoms such as holes in the nail surface, discoloration and roughness of the surface of your nails.
