If your nails feel soft and weak, the cause may not be genetic. Instead, soft nails might be a result of an iron deficiency, according to Donnica Moore, M.D. By fixing any vitamin deficiencies and changing the way you treat your nails, you can grow long, strong nails naturally.
Significance
Nails that are weak and break easily may be caused by a vitamin deficiency, a lack of moisture or the way you treat your nails. Your nails may also become weaker as you age. According to MayoClinic.com, you can maintain your own nails at home or go to a nail salon. Sterilize all tools if you cut and file your nails at home. Also, ensure that your nail technician sterilizes her instruments before cutting and filing your nails.
Causes
Weak nails may be caused by exposure to harsh detergents, like dish-washing liquid or bleach. If you swim or bathe frequently, your nails may also dry out, making them weaker. Nails can also become weak when they are exposed to dry air. Your nails may lose moisture in the winter, which might make them break more easily.
Home Remedies
Keep your nails trimmed short and square on the sides, but slightly rounded at the top, recommends MayoClinic.com. Moisturize your nails with petroleum jelly or moisturizer every time you wash your hands or place your hands in water. Apply a nail hardener to your nails once a week, but do not use nail polish remover more than once a week because it may dry out your nails.
Other Remedies
Take 2.5 mg of biotin once a day to make nails thicker and stronger, suggests Richard K. Scher, M.D., professor of dermatology and head of the Nail Section at Columbia University-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City, in "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." Also, take iron supplements and vitamin C, which will help your body absorb the iron.
Prevention
Applying nail polish will not thicken the nails themselves, but it may prevent your nails from breaking, notes MayoClinic.com. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning or doing the dishes to prevent the chemicals from touching your nails. For best results, wear rubber gloves that contain a layer of cotton inside, recommends Paul Kechijian, M.D., clinical associate professor of dermatology and chief of the Nail Section at New York University Medical Center in New York City, in "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." The cotton lining will keep your hands completely dry.
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