Our nails are made up of several layers of a protein called ‘Keratin’. Their job is to protect our fingers and toes, and they can do so when they are intact. However, it is common for nails to crack, peel, split, and even break.
If this happens to you rarely, it could be because of your nail care routine. However, if you have problems with your nails often, there could be a medical reason behind it. What are the most common reasons for nail problems and what in your nail kit could be causing it? here are the answers.
Iron deficiency
Iron deficiency is quite common, and when it happens, your body isn’t getting enough iron. As a result, the number of red blood cells is lower than it should be, causing a weakening of the nails. If this is the case, your doctor may recommend iron supplements to get the levels back to normal.
Raynaud’s syndrome
People with Raynaud’s syndrome suffer from circulation issues to the extremities. One side effect of this condition is weak nails. To see if this is the problem, your doctor will recommend tests, and can also prescribe you calcium channel blockers.
Bacterial/fungal infection
If bacteria or fungi have gotten under your nails, it will cause weakness and breakage. This could happen as a result of contact with infectious agents. That is why it is important to use clean tools in your nail kit and to make sure that professional nail technicians use sterilized tools. The doctor will prescribe you anti-bacterial or anti-fungal treatments based on the type of the infection and its severity.
Hypothyroidism
Low thyroid activity causes several symptoms, including brittle nails. There are treatments for this condition, and before you receive them, your doctor will check your thyroid levels. If you have Hypothyroidism, your physician may prescribe you synthetic thyroid hormone that you can take orally.
Poor nutrition
Your body needs proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals to function properly. If you are not getting enough nutrients, one result will be brittle nails. Blood tests will reveal what nutrients you are lacking. The doctor will then recommend seeing a nutritionist, or taking supplements to refill your levels.
What to do about brittle nails?
First, you should see a doctor to make sure you are suffering from underlying medical conditions. If your health is fine, you can take care of your nails to heal them. Here is how:
Minimize exposure to water
Too much water can weaken your nails, so you should avoid frequent exposure to water.
Moisturize your hands
This is not the same as pouring water on your hands. Hand creams have oils that lock in moisture, while water strips it off. So, keep a good hand cream in your home and on-the-go nail kit, and apply it whenever your hands feel a bit dry.
Use cuticle cream
Your cuticles also need special attention. You should apply a natural cream on them to keep them strong. The TrySprig nail kit has a certified organic, all-natural, doctor-approved cuticle conditioner, so it is definitely recommended.
Bottom line
Aside from your daily routine, you might also have a medical issue that is casing weak nails. If you suffer from persisting problems with your nails, you should see your physician. You should also have a small nail kit at home and on the go that will allow you to care for your nails properly.
