Soft and brittle nails are two separate conditions that sometimes have similar causes. When nails are overly dry, they can become hard and prone to cracking and breakage. Conversely, if you can easily bend your nails and they feel soft and weak, they probably contain too much moisture. Because they can be excessively thin, soft nails are prone to tearing.
Features
Soft, thin nails can have a translucent appearance and may also have a bluish tone. Hard and brittle nails are prone to splitting and chipping, especially at the tips. Brittle nails are also characterized by cracks that can run down the entire length of the nail and the formation of grooves on the nail body.
Environmental Causes
A common cause of soft nails is overexposure to water. Additionally, the frequent use of oily moisturizers can break down the keratin structures of the nail, leaving it frail and spongy. Brittle nails often result from the persistent exposure to hot water, dry heat, detergents and nail polish removers.
Health-Related Causes
According to "Nailpro" consultant Cheryl L. Branche, M.D., soft nails can be a symptom of magnesium deficiency and endocrine disorders. Michael Lehrer, M.D., of the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, also credits low iron and zinc levels, as well as certain thyroid problems, as possible sources of brittle nails.
Dietary Solutions
You can avoid nail softening and keep your nails healthy by eating a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains and biotin, says Dr. Blanche. Also known as vitamin B-7, biotin is available as a supplement and found naturally in vegan protein sources, like peanuts, almonds and walnuts. Foods rich in magnesium, like flax, sesame and sunflower seeds, and a variety of nuts and beans, also combat nail softening.
Zinc and iron supplements are also recommended for nail health. If you have soft nails, consider eating more spinach and beans to increase the amount of iron in your diet. To boost your zinc levels, eat zinc-rich foods like cashews and chickpeas.
Environmental Solutions
To prevent brittle nails, limit your hand washing, and when you do wash your hands or bathe, keep the water temperature comfortable, but not hot. If you're concerned about germs, consider using a plant-based natural hand sanitizer, instead of subjecting your hands to harsh cleansers.
Wear gloves when cleaning or working with harsh chemicals to protect your hands and nails. Moisturizers and hand lotions, while aggravating the condition of soft nails, can help keep brittle nails flexible and make them less prone to breakage and chipping.
For brittle, dry nails that easily crack, try soaking them regularly in warm water and apply moisturizers daily. If your nails are persistently brittle or soft, despite a lack of environmental or dietary grounds, seek medical advice.
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