💅 Weak or Brittle Nails: What Your Body May Be Trying to Tell You

Weak, splitting, or brittle nails are common. Sometimes they result from everyday wear and tear, but occasionally they can be associated with nutritional deficiencies or an underlying health condition.

Here are 7 possible reasons your nails are becoming weak or brittle.

1. Iron deficiency

Low iron levels can sometimes cause brittle nails. More severe iron deficiency may cause nails to become thin or spoon-shaped.

Other possible signs include fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

2. Not getting enough nutrients

Inadequate protein, calories, or certain nutrients can affect nail growth. Biotin deficiency can also cause brittle nails, although true deficiency is uncommon.

What helps: Eat a balanced diet with eggs, beans, lentils, nuts, vegetables, and other protein-rich foods.

3. Frequent exposure to water and cleaning products

Repeated wetting and drying, detergents, solvents, and nail polish removers can make nails dry, peel, and split.

What helps: Wear protective gloves for cleaning and moisturize your hands and nails regularly.

4. Thyroid problems

An underactive thyroid can contribute to dry, brittle nails. Other symptoms may include feeling unusually cold, constipation, dry skin, or unexplained fatigue.

A clinician can determine whether thyroid testing is appropriate.

5. Aging and natural nail changes

Nails may become more brittle with age. Fine vertical ridges are also common and are often harmless.

Sudden changes, significant discoloration, or pain deserve closer attention.

6. Fungal nail infections

A fungal infection may cause nails to become thick, crumbly, yellowish, or detached from the nail bed. These changes can resemble other nail conditions, so examination may be needed before treatment.

7. Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema

Psoriasis and eczema can affect the skin around the nails and sometimes cause pitting, roughness, splitting, or nail separation.

🌿 How to make your nails stronger

When should you see a doctor?

Seek medical advice if brittle nails persist despite basic care, or if you notice new spoon-shaped nails, marked discoloration, swelling, pain, or nail separation. A clinician may recommend blood tests based on your symptoms and medical history.

One important question: What exactly is happening to your nails?