Having weak nails is a very common and at the same time very uncomfortable problem, but depending on the cause it can easily be resolved.
Having weak, dry and brittle nails is a very common problem, but also very uncomfortable. Normally, nails remain in this state due to day-to-day activities, such as the use of unprotected cleaning products or even the habit of biting your nails. In these cases, weak nails do not pose any serious problem.
However, these are not the only causes of weak nails. When accompanied by other signs, such as dizziness, weakness and headaches, weakened nails can be an indication of a more serious health problem. For example, anemia, nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, poor blood circulation, hormonal changes and even diseases such as hypothyroidism.
Therefore, today we will better understand the main causes of weak nails and how to strengthen them.
Weak nails
Nails, like the rest of the body, depend on a series of things to stay healthy. In the case of nails, which are made up mainly of keratin, they need a large amount and variety of vitamins and nutrients to grow strong and healthy.
When talking about weak nails, there is not just one specific cause, it is usually the result of several factors. It is generally not a serious problem, and is usually easy to treat. This condition of weak nails can happen to anyone, but it is more common among women, especially due to greater contact with products that cause dry nails.
It is not very difficult to identify when your nails are weak, as they become thinner, brittle, peeling and appear more porous. In addition to having stains and irregularities, they are more susceptible to fungal attack.
Main causes of weak nails
The desire to have strong and beautiful nails can be compromised by some daily activities and habits, but not only that. Check out the main causes of weak nails:
Nail biting
This is a very common habit, especially among anxious people, but it is not healthy at all. Furthermore, it can make your nails more fragile, ugly and degraded due to microtraumas that lead to them breaking more easily.
Using unprotected cleaning products
Cleaning products can be very aggressive, both for the skin and nails. So, when using these products without protection, it is common for your nails to dry out, making them more fragile. In addition to cleaning products, the constant use of acetone and nail polish removers can also leave your nails weakened.
Diet poor in nutrients and vitamins
A lack of nutrients and vitamins in the body can also weaken nails. This is even more common when the consumption of iron, vitamin D, zinc, selenium and vitamin B is very little. Remembering that these nutrients are responsible for keeping your skin, hair and nails healthy.
Anemia
Anemia is another very common cause of weak nails. This is explained by the fact that anemia implies a decrease in the amount of circulating hemoglobin, which causes the oxygen transported to the tissues to also decrease. Therefore, in addition to weakening of the nails, the person also feels excessive tiredness, weakness and lack of energy.
Thyroid changes
Certain changes in the thyroid can also make nails weak and brittle. Therefore, when it comes to hypothyroidism, a decrease in metabolism and a decrease in the transport of nutrients to the body are noted, which leaves the nails weakened. On the other hand, in the case of hyperthyroidism there is an increase in the production of thyroid hormones, which increases nail growth, but they become much weaker.
Dermatological diseases
Another cause of weak nails is dermatological diseases, especially those caused by fungi. These infections, in addition to making your nails weak and brittle, can change their appearance, leaving them with a scaly appearance. If this is the case, it is necessary to see a dermatologist to diagnose and treat the infection.
Tips on how to strengthen weak nails
Depending on the cause of weak nails, it is possible to strengthen your nails with simple tips. This problem can be treated with some simple changes in habits and diet. Check out:
Stop biting your nails
This is basic, stopping biting your nails is essential to have beautiful and strong nails. However, it can be a little difficult to break this habit. Therefore, the tip is to always keep your nails well cut and filed, and also apply nail polish with a bitter taste to avoid biting.
Use hand cream
Using a good moisturizing cream for your hands and nails is the first step to having more beautiful and healthier nails. It is even possible to find specific creams for treating weak and dry nails. This type of product helps keep the nails hydrated and strong without the flaky appearance.
Use nail strengthener
When it comes to treating weak and brittle nails, there are several products suitable for this purpose, such as strengthening bases and special oils. The strengthening base is great for nourishing the nail, leaving it healthier and preventing breakage. The tip is to apply the base daily, with clean nails free of nail polish.
Use nail polish remover without acetone
Acetone can make your nails much more fragile and brittle. Therefore, the ideal is to only use nail polish removers free of this chemical substance that is so aggressive for the nails. And more than that, painting your nails with nail polish too frequently can also worsen the condition of your nails, making them more sensitive. Therefore, the ideal is to reduce the number of times you do your nails per week.
Wear gloves
When carrying out everyday household tasks, such as washing the dishes or cleaning the house, your hands come into direct contact with cleaning products, which are often aggressive. Therefore, the ideal is to protect your hands and nails, and for this the best option is to use gloves to carry out these activities.
Food rich in nutrients and vitamins
A balanced diet is important to keep your entire body healthy, including your nails. Therefore, it is very important to increase the consumption of foods rich in vitamins, such as milk, eggs, leafy vegetables, fruits and meats. Therefore, the ideal is to maintain balanced levels of vitamin A and B5, pantothenic acid, iron, calcium, and protein. Thus, it helps to strengthen your nails and make them healthier.
However, despite these tips, it is very important to see a doctor if you notice that your nails are very fragile, brittle or peeling. Due to the variety of causes of weak nails, an evaluation is important to identify the root of the problem and then carry out appropriate treatment in each case.
Anyway, what did you think of this article? In fact, take the opportunity to also check out Big, natural nails – How to make them grow and keep them long.
Sources: Tua Saúde Tua Saúde Pharmacy Guide
Images: New Natural Vix Marie Clarie Nail Tips
