why are my fingernails splitting?...

Question
why are my fingernails splitting?  I am 51 and this is a new thing for me.  I'm in good health with no changes in my lifestyle.

Answer
Hello Irene!

    Thank you for your nutrition questins. Onychoschizia or splitting of the fingernails is one of the most common problems that the dermatologist sees. The term onychoschizia includes splitting, frail, soft or thin nails and nails with ridges. Onychoschizia is more common in women. Some of the causes include:

-Repetitive and prolonged wetting and drying of the fingernails is the single most common cause of splitting and ridging of the nails.
-Splitting of the nails is rarely caused by internal disease or vitamin deficiency.
-Nail polish remover causes onychoschizia.
-Trauma to the fingers contributes to onychoschizia.

The best treatment is to avoid repeated wetting and drying of the nails. Try to wear cotton lined rubber gloves when performing household chores that involve getting the hands wet. Rub lotions containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as Neostrata or lanolin containing lotions such as Elon into the nails both before and after getting the hands wet.  
Always wear gloves during cold weather and when you do chores which may traumatize the nail tips.
Daily filing of snags or irregularities helps to prevent further breakage or splitting. Nail polish can protect the nail surface. The almost daily application of a "top coat" will keep the nail tips protected. Nail polishes with nylon fibers in them may add strength and protection to fragile nails.

There is also a product called Juice Plus which is on my website www.juiceblend.com that contains nutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables which can be helpful to increase the speed of nail growth which in turn leads to healthier nail.   Let me know if you have more questions.

-George Rapitis, Nutritionist
www.dietitian.mymagicwand.com

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