Brittle nails - what can be done about it?
Good hands are the hallmark of many men and women. Their appearance tells potential interlocutors whether the person in question is taking care of himself and his health. One of the most common abnormalities observed is brittle nails. How do we treat it? What should be done to keep nails in good condition?
Brittle nails - the most common causes
First of all, it is worth noting various diseases. Some conditions can lead to brittle nails that weaken due to disease progression. Skin problems (for example, eczema or psoriasis), nail infections, heart disease, or poisoning (for example, due to chemicals) can deteriorate the nail plate and make it more susceptible to damage.
Another major cause of brittle nails is improper maintenance of nails. Excessive urination and drying of the hands can worsen their condition, which in turn leads to a decrease in their resistance. The use of detergents (cleaning products, for example) without wearing gloves
also leads to a noticeable weakening of the nail plate. At this stage, it is also worth noting that cosmetics can also damage the condition of the nail. Acetone nail polish removers are one of the most frequently mentioned causes of plaque damage and premature breakage of healthy nails.
Finally, the daily diet and nutrition also affect the condition and composition of the skin. If the nutrients in food products determine the state of the nervous system, the heart or the muscles, why not have a significant effect on the state of the nails? A diet based on processed foods and lacking in valuable vitamins and minerals is a very common cause of brittle and unsightly nails.
How to fix brittle nails?
First of all, it is worth taking care of an optimal level of keratin, which is one of the basic substances for the proper development of nails. The best way to provide this is to use various cosmetics that contain it in their composition. In the current market you will easily find products in the form of gels, creams, conditioners or varnishes rich in keratin. However, it must be remembered that cosmetics containing its hydrolyzed form are the best option.
Diet, which has already been mentioned, is another important aspect. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies and a lack of whole foods consumption are the most common causes of brittle nails. To this end, it should be ensured that the organization has access to:
- Essential minerals - zinc, iodine, silicon and iron
- The most important vitamins - A, B1, B2, B5, B7, folic acid, C, E
- Some antioxidants, for example beta-carotene
- Hyaluronic acid and collagen
- Some amino acids, for example L-cysteine.
- In addition, your daily diet should ensure optimal hydration. Mineral water is not only a valuable source of minerals, but also prevents excessive drying of the skin and nails.