Why Do My Fingernails Peel & Break?

Weak, brittle nails that split, peel and break easily are a common condition. In most cases, they're not indicative of an underlying medical problem. Onychoschizia is the technical term for brittle, breaking nails. Most people with the condition find that it worsens in the winter due to low humidity and dry heat. There are several ways for people with onychoschizia to improve the condition of their nails.

Health Concerns

Certain nail conditions are symptomatic of a health problem. According to the Mayo Clinic, if your nails are crumbling or have small indentations called pits, you may have a skin condition such as psoriasis, dermatitis or alopecia. Consult a physician if your nails are discolored or if your nail condition is persistent, painful or otherwise abnormal.

Environmental Causes

Prolonged exposure to water, such as hand-washing dishes, is the primary cause of weak, brittle nails. Nail polish removers containing acetone weaken nails, so people who get frequent manicures may be prone to nail problems. Biting the nails or picking at cuticles can introduce bacteria, which weaken the nail bed and cause brittle nails, the Mayo Clinic says.

Diet & Supplements

Onychoschizia is rarely related to diet. Iron deficiency may cause the condition, but for most people, onychoschizia is a result of external factors. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, or AOCD, suggests that if fingernails are brittle but the toenails are strong, the problem is not internal. A dietary supplement may help improve nail condition in some people. A study by Columbia University's Department of Dermatology found that 63 percent of subjects who took a daily B-complex vitamin called biotin experienced an improvement in onychoschizia symptoms. According to the AOCD, it may take six months to see improvements, and pregnant women should not take biotin.

Topical Treatments

The Mayo Clinic's adult health website recommends applying topical nail hardening products, such as nail polish containing nylon fibers. Choose a product that does not contain toluene or formaldehyde; these ingredients are irritants and may exacerbate nail problems. Hand and nail moisturizers containing alpha hydroxy acid or lanolin can help control breakage, especially if you apply it at night before bed and sleep in cotton gloves to prevent moisture from evaporating.

Nail Care

The Mayo Clinic's adult health website makes several recommendations for nail care to help prevent weak, brittle nails. Groom nails regularly by trimming with nail clippers, then rounding the edges with an emery board. Avoid excessive exposure to water by wearing gloves for household chores. When a split develops in the nail, apply nail glue to the split to keep it from getting worse.