The Reasons for Cracked Nails (and What to Do About Them)
Cracked nails can be not only painful but also unsightly, which is why if you are having cuticle concerns, you should learn about various factors that contribute to nail cracking and explore proactive steps to address and prevent this.
Understanding the Reasons Behind Cracked Nails
There are a number of different factors at play here. Excessive dryness can be a very common cause due to harsh weather conditions, frequent hand washing, and exposure to chemicals that strip the nails of their natural moisture, leading to dryness and subsequent cracking. Of the many nail and body care products around, nail repair oil can make a massive difference in bringing moisture back into your cuticles.
Additionally, nutrient deficiencies and inadequate intake of nutrients such as vitamin E, iron, and biotin can weaken your nails, which will make them prone to cracking. Therefore, having a balanced diet rich in these nutrients is crucial for maintaining overall nail strength. You should also remember that fungal infections can occur on the nails and can cause them to become brittle and prone to cracking. Antifungal treatments can help prevent and address these issues.
The Best Cuticle Courses of Action
To ensure that you are keeping your nails in peak condition, you should consider the following:
- Hydration by regulating your nail and cuticle moisture to combat dryness. Nail repair oils enriched with essential oils and vitamins can promote moisture retention.
- A balanced approach to nutrition by consuming nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and proteins that can contribute to stronger, healthier nails. You can benefit from taking supplements if there are certain things lacking in your diet; however, it’s far better to consume adequate nutrients naturally.
- Protective measures, such as wearing protective gloves if you are engaging in activities that could cause trauma to your nails, can significantly reduce the risk of nail damage.
- If you suspect a fungal infection, you should seek prompt treatment with either prescription medications or over-the-counter antifungal creams. A fungal nail infection can arise from a number of different things, but you’re more likely to get it if you do not keep your feet clean and dry. You should avoid wearing shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty. If you use communal showers, gyms, or locker rooms, you should also take extra special care to protect your nails.
It’s a Comprehensive Approach
If we understand the factors that contribute to cracked nails, we can take far more proactive steps to address them. If you have cracked nails, but also have skin issues, you may also want to think about addressing factors in your diet. You may have a deficiency in a key mineral or nutrients that are generally impacting your immune system.
When it comes to nail care, it is undoubtedly one aspect of style you need in your life, but the key is consistent care and attention. We should always take the time to give ourselves a once-over and see if there’s anything that can benefit from fine-tuning, not just in our nails but our skin, hair, and overall health.