Nails that split, peel and break are more commonly a problem for women rather than for men. This condition, known as onychoschizia, isn't likely to be caused by dietary deficiencies. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, or AOCD, points to external causes instead. Protecting your hands and treating them gently can do wonders for unflattering fingernails. Medical experts also suggest trying biotin for weak and peeling nails. Please talk to your treating physician before you take a dietary supplement for any health, nutrition or beauty concern.
About Biotin
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that also goes by the name of vitamin H. The B-vitamin family helps your body convert the food you eat into energy. These vitamins also encourage a healthy central nervous system. Specifically, biotin metabolizes fats, carbohydrates and amino acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, states that one of biotin's uses is to grow stronger, healthier hair and nails. There is preliminary evidence to suggest that it might be beneficial for this purpose.
Research
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, interest in studying biotin as a nail strengthener was born out of the vitamin's success as a treatment for hoof problems in horses and pigs. Results of one such human study was published in the April 1993 issue of "Cutis." Columbia University reported that 63 percent of human participants in a study conducted in Switzerland who received biotin supplements exhibited a 25 percent increase in nail thickness. The Linus Pauling Institute notes that three smaller, uncontrolled studies have been conducted; two of these studies revealed that biotin supplements worked for 67 to 91 percent of study participants.
Dosage
MayoClinic.com states that 2.5 mg biotin taken daily might work to improve weak and peeling nails. It might take six months before you see noticeable changes, however, says the AOCD. This supplement seems to work for slightly more than 30 percent of people.
Other Solutions
Biotin may or may not give you the results you want. If your nails peel, the usual reason is because they've been repeatedly exposed to water, according to the AOCD. Everything from mopping the floor to soaking in a hot tub takes its toll on your nails. Wear rubber gloves when doing housework to protect your hands and nails from water, as well as harsh chemicals. Rub moisturizer into your cuticles frequently. Change your nail polish no more frequently than once a week -- touch up chipping rather than removing the polish and repainting your nails. Use acetone-free remover whenever you take off your old nail polish.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin H (Biotin)
- Linus Pauling Institute: Biotin
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: Brittle Splitting Nails
- Mayo Clinic; Nails: How to Keep Your Fingernails Healthy and Strong; November 2009
- "Cutis;" Brittle Nails: Response to Daily Biotin Supplementation; L.G. Hochman; April 1993
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