Double nails refer to a rare condition in which an individual is born with a primary nail on their fingers or toes and a secondary nail either overlapping or located beside the primary. Fingernails and toenails are primarily made up of complex proteins, leaving them susceptible to brittleness and breaking with nutritional deficiency or occupational damage. Many products are available for use over-the-counter to treat brittle nails of a primary and secondary nature.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Pharmacies and larger chain stores offer a slew of nail treatments for brittleness. According to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies," the best way to choose an over-the-counter treatment is to peruse the moisturizing ingredients listed on the packaging. Petroleum-based products are more likely to lock in moisture for each layer of your nails. Water-based creams are also ideal for retaining moisture in your nails to restore pliability. For a spa treatment at home, try soaking your nails in a bowl of lukewarm water containing a dissolved bath oil pearl once a day for five minutes and follow with your preferred nail moisturizer.
Nutrition
Lean proteins, vitamins A, B and C, iron and zinc are believed to help restore brittle nails to a healthy texture and reduce splitting. According to Aurora Health Care, topical application of these vitamins and minerals has not proven effective, but nutritional intake may be effective for general nail health. Foods such as green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, poultry and fish provide you with your required daily intake of these nutrients.
Causes
Knowing what is causing your nails to split and peel is essential to determining how to approach treatment. Nail disorders are linked to diabetes, as well as frequent exposure to harsh detergents and chemicals used in cleaning and disinfecting around the house or at work. According to Podiatry Today, if you suffer from diabetes or any other diseases, frequent examination of your finger and toenails is the first step in treating problems such as brittleness. Protective measures, such as wearing cotton gloves underneath work gloves, will prevent further damage from harsh chemicals, in conjunction with treatment.
Supplements
Aurora Health Care states that studies are still being conducted to back up manufacturer claims of supplementation with biotin and silicon. Biotin is an essential B vitamin used to treat deformation in the hooves of horses and pigs. Since animal hooves are comprised of the same proteins that human nails contain, biotin supplements may also benefit human brittle nails and other nail deformities. Silicon is a mineral that, in a 2004 study, showed no effect on brittle nails when administered daily in 10 mg increments. Still, silicon is marketed for topical and supplemental nail health in many health food stores.
Considerations
Proper care of your nails may be all that is required to restore vitality and health, but it is important to be examined regularly by your doctor. Disease and genetics play a large role in brittle nails, leaving effective treatment of any underlying conditions the key to reversing brittle nails. Never undergo herbal or alternative treatments without first consulting your doctor.
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