Nails that are very soft or dry and brittle can peel, chip and split easily. A split nail compromises the protection that your nails offer your fingers and toes, and introduces potentially harmful bacteria and dirt to your body. Split nail remedies center on overall nail health: keeping your nails clean, short and moisturized.
Step 1
Clip your nail to just above the tip of your finger or toe if the split in your nail is located in the area that's grown past your digits. It's not necessary to trim your nail past your finger or toe line to remedy a split. Trimming the excess nail minimizes your chances of the tear catching on clothing.
Step 2
Repair a long split in your nail with nail glue, which you'll find in the makeup aisle of a drugstore. Paint the nail glue onto your nail in the same manner as nail polish. The glue will hold both sides of the split together until the nail grows out.
Substitute clear polish if you can't find nail glue.
Step 3
Limit your exposure to water when you've got a split nail. The Mayo Clinic website reports nails that soak in water for prolonged periods have a higher risk for becoming soft, which can lead to splitting and peeling. Wear gloves when washing dishes, and take short showers instead of long baths.
Step 4
Prevent future nail splits by keeping your nails healthy and moisturized. Drink plenty of water and strengthen your nails with omega 3 and biotin---vitamin B---supplements, under the supervision of your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Nail clippers
- Nail glue
- Nail polish
- Dietary supplements
Member Comments