Brittle nails that split, crack or break easily ruin your chances of maintaining a stylish manicure. A number of factors and habits can cause brittle nails. If your toenails are strong and unblemished while your fingernails are brittle, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology advises that this is a good sign that the cause of the brittleness is external and not due to disease or deficiency. Knowing the reasons your nails are brittle can help you maintain healthy nails.
Thyroid Disease
Both hypothyroidism, in which your thyroid doesn't make enough thyroid hormone, and hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid makes too much hormone, can cause brittle nails. Have your doctor do a blood test to check your thyroid levels. Medication can help correct the problem.
Moisture
Repeated exposure to water, especially water treated with chemicals, such as the chlorine in pools, cleaning solutions or dishwashing liquid, can make your nails brittle. The combination of water and chemicals removes natural oils from the nail bed and dries the nails themselves, causing layers of nail material to peel off. Avoid this by wearing rubber gloves when cleaning and by moisturizing your nails after swimming.
Nail Polish
Some nail polishes contain harsh chemicals that can lead to your nails becoming brittle. Periodically go without nail polish to give your nails a break.
Aging
With age, your nails may become more brittle. The nail grows more slowly over time and the nail beds become dryer, contributing to brittleness.
Nutrition
Poor nutrition can lead to brittle nails. Drexel University College of Medicine lists low levels of zinc and iron as possible deficiencies that can cause nails to become brittle. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends biotin supplements to help strengthen nails. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps the body metabolize proteins and fats.
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