Affecting nearly 20 percent of the population, brittle nails split and peel. When the nail splits or peels vertically, it is known as onychorrhexis, while a horizontal peel or split is called onychoschizia, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This condition is rarely caused by an internal disease or vitamin deficiency. If only the fingernails are peeling and not the toenails, it's likely that external conditions, harsh chemicals and aging are to blame.
Chemicals
Nail splitting and peeling are often caused by harsh chemicals found in cosmetics and cleaners. Examples of cosmetics that can cause brittle nails are nail hardeners, polish and polish removers. People who work with alkalis, acids, cement, solvents and thioglycolates are also at risk for peeling and splitting nails. To avoid nail damage, wear gloves when working with these chemicals.
If working with these chemicals is unavoidable, rehydrate the nail plate layers with a cuticle and nail oil that includes jojoba and vitamin E. The jojoba oil penetrates the nail plate surface to open up the layers and draws the vitamin E into the nail to restore it.
Moisture
The most common cause of peeling nails, according to skin website Skinsight, is frequently wetting and drying your hands. Because of this, the condition is often seen in hairdressers, nurses and house cleaners. The condition gets worse in dry climates and in the winter. To combat the problem, apply lotion that contains alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin after soaking your nails in water for five minutes.
Aging
In many cases, splitting and peeling nails are not a result of external conditions at all. Rather, it's just a natural part of the aging process. As you grow older, the flow of oil and moisture to the nail bed lessens, according to the nail website Hooked on Nails. These oils are important to hold the nail plate layers together and keep them flexible. Increase the amount of oil in the nails by applying lotion or oils at least twice a day. If you work with your hands in water frequently, it might be necessary to increase that number.
Other Causes
While less common, nail splitting and peeling can be caused by other medical or skin problems, according to Skinsight. Medical causes could include gland diseases, malnutrition, tuberculosis or Sjogren's syndrome. Possible skin diseases include lichen planus and psoriasis. Alternatively, those who take medications made from vitamin A might encounter splitting nails.
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