Approximately one in five people has brittle nails, also known as onychoschizia, according to Robert Rister, author of "Healing Without Medication." Symptoms include peeling of the fingernails in horizontal layers, starting at the fingertips, as well as lengthwise splits in the nails. Although trauma to the nail is the primary cause, brittleness also occurs when fingernails repeatedly come in contact with detergents, water or excessive polish remover. Nails also tend to become brittle as people age.
Step 1
Take 300 to 600 mg of biotin daily, advises Rister. Biotin strengthens and hardens nails. You might need to take biotin for up to six months to see results. Avoid taking high doses of pantothenic acid --- also known as vitamin B5 --- as it can reduce the effectiveness of biotin.
Step 2
Take 3,000 mg of methylsulfonylmethane --- also known as MSM --- daily, which will strengthen nails and promote shiny hair, Rister says.
Step 3
Buff your nails in the direction the nail grows, not horizontally, which will weaken the nails. Refrain from using a metal instrument to push back the cuticle.
Step 4
Shape and file your nails with a file with a very fine grain. Round the tips of your nails in a gentle curve. File fingernail irregularities and snags regularly to help prevent further damage.
Step 5
File and cut your nails only when they are moist --- for example, after you bathe. Dry nails are more likely to crack when you file or cut them.
Step 6
Apply a nail polish with a nylon fiber, which strengthens brittle nails.
Step 7
Wear vinyl gloves with a cotton liner --- which helps absorb perspiration --- when performing household chores that involve water. Pat your hands dry after washing dishes, then apply moisturizer to your hands and nails when they are still wet. Doing so will help your nails retain moisture.
Step 8
Soak your fingertips in a bowl of olive oil for 15 to 30 minutes each evening, which will help hydrate your nails.
Step 9
Take a zinc sulphate supplement if your doctor has diagnosed you with acrodermatitis enteropathica, a condition in which brittle nails are one symptom, along with diarrhea, hair loss and mouth sores.
Tips and Warnings
- Brittle nails can be a symptom of a more serious disorder. Consult your doctor before beginning home treatment to ensure that any underlying condition is diagnosed and treated.
Things You'll Need
- Biotin
- Methylsulfonylmethane
- Nail buffer
- Nail file with a very fine grain
- Manicure scissors
- Nail polish with a nylon fiber
- Vinyl gloves with a cotton liner
- Olive oil
- Zinc sulphate
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