Healthy nails should be firm, pink and lustrous, according to Health Services at Columbia University. Often, daily living can expose the nails to wear and tear, causing them to fray, peel and become brittle and prone to breakage. Extra care and a few changes in your daily routine can usually restore nail strength and flexibility. Be patient, as healing your peeling nails will take time. See your physician or dermatologist for an evaluation if your nails continue to peel.
Step 1
Wear rubber gloves while doing the dishes, cleaning or any time your hands are exposed to hot water or harsh chemicals. Exposure to chemicals and hot water can weaken the nails and cause them to peel. Massage hand lotion into your hand and nails every time you wash your hands.
Step 2
Massage tea tree oil, vitamin E oil or rosehip oil into your cuticles and nails, according to Delicious Living Magazine. An oil massage will strengthen your nails and prevent chipping, peeling and splitting.
Step 3
Incorporate biotin into your daily diet. Biotin-rich foods include fish, nuts, lentils, peanut butter, whole grains, cauliflower, soybeans, milk and egg yolks. Alternatively, take a daily supplement containing 2.4mg biotin. Health Services at Columbia University cites a study in which 2.5mg of biotin taken daily resulted in an increase of 25 percent nail thickness. Talk to your doctor before taking a biotin supplement.
Step 4
Read labels when buying nail care products. Avoid polish containing toluene or formaldehyde and polish remover containing acetone, which will both dry the nails, leaving them susceptible to peeling. Avoid wearing polish whenever possible. Avoid artificial fingernails, which can weaken the nails and cause peeling.
Step 5
Trim your nails straight across with manicure scissors or nail clippers. Round the tips slightly. Touch up rough edges with a fine-textured file, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 6
Eat a healthy, balanced diet to strengthen your nails, says Health Services at Columbia University. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, which contain calcium, iron, protein, zinc, and vitamins A, B and C.
Things You'll Need
- Rubber gloves
- Hand lotion
- Tea tree, vitamin E or rosehip oil
- Biotin supplement (optional)
- Manicure scissors or nail clippers
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