How can I Rx Brittle Nails?

Brittle nails effect as many as 20% of the population and are more common in women than in men. Age also increases the propensity of brittle nails and longitudinal ridges that are raised lines from the lunula (the half moon area at the beginning of the nail) to the edge at the end of the nail. Nail fragility can also be associated with various dermatoses such as eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis and deficiencies in vitamins A, C and B6.

Brittle nails are also induced from dehydration (loss of water from the nail plate). Repetitive hydration and dehydration from applying and removing fingernail polishes, the application of acrylic nails and many jobs (dental assisting, dental hygiene, dish washing, etc.) where one's hands are washed often all contribute to brittle nails.

Treatment of Brittle Nails:

• Avoid trauma, household and work chores where the nails are exposed to repetitive wet/dry cycles. The wearing of vinyl gloves over cotton liners should be used to avoid direct contact with water.
• The use of lubricating creams to hydrate the nail and the surrounding cuticles will improve the nails.
• The use of nail hardeners such as Dermanail have also been shown to be helpful in hardening nails that split at the end or are brittle.
• Biotin, a B vitamin, when taken for 3-4 months has also been shown to strengthen nails. This can be found at DermatologistRx in Dermavite.
• Brittle nails can also be caused from a fungal infection caused by candida or a dermatophyte infection. this can be treated by Lamisil or Lotrimin.
• All products should be used as directed on the product container.  Any product that causes irritation should be discontinued.  The information provided at DermatologistRx is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a dermatologist or your physician.

Skin Care Glossary A-M
Skin Care Glossary N-Z