Weak fingernails can break easily, causing pain and injury to the nail bed and cuticle. A number of things can weaken your fingernails. Certain remedies can help make them stronger, including nail hardeners and certain vitamins. If your fingernails aren't responding to any at-home or salon treatments, you may need to see your health care provider.
Identification
If your nails easily bend and break, you have weak fingernails. You may also notice that they seem flaky and crumble easily, according to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Strong, healthy nails will appear smooth instead of flaky and don't break easily.
Significance
Certain environmental factors can influence the strength, or weakness, of your nails, such as water. If you constantly have your hands submerged in water, this can weaken your nails, according to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Certain medical conditions can weaken your nails, such as osteoporosis, according to the Arthritis Today Magazine. Illnesses and medications can also weaken your nail enamel. Certain vitamin deficiencies, such as biotin, can leave nails weak and brittle.
Prevention/Solution
Nail hardeners can help strengthen weak fingernails, according to the Mayo Clinic. Certain formulas go into nail hardeners, so they are very different from regular fingernail polish. If your fingernails are weak due to a vitamin deficiency, talk to your doctor about taking a vitamin supplement to help strengthen your fingernails. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that men and women can safely consume up to 30mcg of biotin daily; ask your doctor if this dose is right for you.
Warning
Nail hardeners containing toluene or sulfonamide may irritate your skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. When using nail hardeners containing either of these ingredients, avoid allowing them to touch your skin. If you accidentally get some on your skin, wipe it off immediately to avoid skin irritation. Should a severe allergic reaction occur, seek prompt medical attention.
Considerations
Avoid keeping your hands in water for extended periods. When washing dishes, wear rubber gloves to avoid water contact with your nails. After bathing, apply a moisturizer to your cuticles and fingernails, as this will help restore hydration and prevent them from drying out. You may also apply a coat of nail polish over the nail hardener as nail polish helps lock in moisture, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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