HOME REMEDIES FOR BRITTLE NAILS

• Brittle nails literally mean that the nails easily becomes cracked, chipped, split, or peeled. 
• It can be observed as a sign of aging or may be due to long-term use of nail polish or nail polish remover or exposure to moist conditions like swimming or dishwashing frequently. 
• Some of the diseases are also related with changes in the nails, which can include brittleness of nails. Thin and brittle nails can be a sign of hypothyroidism
• The term onychoschizia refers to splitting of the fingernails as well as brittle or soft nails. 
• Brittle name can be divided in two types i.e. Dry Brittle and soft Brittle.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BRITTLE NAILS?

Dry and brittle nails-This is generally because of too little moisture. 

Common causes includes- repeated washing and drying of nails.

Soft and brittle nails- they are caused by too much of moisture, as a result of overexposure to detergents, household cleaners, and nail paint or nail polish remover.

Some other causes-

• Age Factor- As per the ageing process nails changes and often becoming dull and brittle. Fingernails become thinner and more brittle and toenails commonly get thicker and harder.
• Anemia- This condition occurs when the body doesn’t get enough iron, which leads to lower level of red blood cell. 
• Hypothyroidism- It can be associated with brittleness of nails; symptoms of low thyroid levels may include hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and depression. 
• Raynaud’s syndrome- It is associated with the circulation problems in the extremities and can affect the nail health.
• External factor- If the fingernails split but the toenails are strong, and then an external factor may be the cause like Exposure to chemicals etc.
• Dehydration and dry Environment can also cause Brittle nails.
• Nutritional deficiencies, Endocrine disorders and some Lung conditions it may also be present. 
• Skin related like Psoriasis, Eczema, Fungal infection can also cause brittle nails.

HOME REMEDIES FOR BRITTLE NAILS

Try out Some Remedies to strengthen your weak nails and regain your Nail health-

• Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a great moisturizer for brittle nails. It helps in nail strengthening and also preventing nail infections.

How to Use– Apply lukewarm coconut oil to nails every night with a gentle massage it is also good for blood circulation.

• Olive Oil

Olive oil has abundant of benefits and can be consumed with food or can be applied externally. It is also an excellent moisturizer. Warm oil massages in general helps in improving and conditioning the nail texture.

How to use- Apply lukewarm Olive oil followed by a gentle massage in the nails and near the cuticles. It should be kept overnight and should be done on regular basis.

• Vitamin-E Oil

Vitamin E is good for the skin and one of the vital vitamins needed to strengthen and beautify the skin, hair and nails. Vitamin E is an amazing moisturiser and hydrates the dry brittle nails. 

How to Use- vitamin E oil should be applies on the nails and cuticle. Keep it overnight. 

You can also take vitamin E oil or vitamin E rich foods for best effect.

• Lemon Juice

It is a famous remedy for brightening your nails and prevents them from infections. Besides, they also help in strengthening nails. 

How to use- Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive oil; use this mixture to massage nails and cuticles. Leave it overnight and wash it in the morning for better results.

• Green Tea

It is enriched with nutrients and anti-oxidants and one of the best health enhancer drink. It also comes in handy to treat dry nails, it helps to grow strong and healthy nails.

How to use- Prepare green tea in water and boil for a few minutes and when it becomes Luke warm then soak nails in this water 

Duration- 15 to 20 minutes

Do this Manicure once or twice a week for best results.

• Tomatoes

Tomatoes are enriched with Biotin which is a key component essential for growing nails long and strong. It is a wonderful remedy for dry and brittle nails. 

How to Use- Chop fresh tomatoes and take out juice of it and apply to nails and cuticles. 

Duration- Leave it for 25 to 30 minutes and then wash your nails with warm water.

• Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is used as a remedy against many skin problems. It possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties which help to prevent fungal infections causing dry and brittle nails. It is also used as an anti-septic that treats stained nails. 

How to Use- It should be diluted in water or carrier oil and apply it on nails for 20 minutes and wash with warm water.

• Apple Cider Vinegar

It is rich in calcium, iron, potassium and vitamins essential for growing stronger nails. It contains malic acid and acetic acid which helps to prevents nail infections.

How to Use- Mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl or container. Dip your fingers inside this bowl and soak nails in this solution.

Duration- 10 to 15 minutes. 

This treatment should be used at least twice a week.

• Vaseline

It is an amazing product that can be used in various ways. It hydrates, moisturizes and strengthen the nails. 

How to Use- Apply vaseline on nails and cuticles at bed time. Apply this treatment every night for good results.

• Egg Yolk

Yolk of egg is rich in fats and vitamins. It helps to moisturize deeply and nourishes nails and thus prevents dryness. Mix egg yolk in water in a bowl. Use this bowl to soak nails and cuticles.

Duration- 30 minutes

Rinse it with warm water. Repeat this procedure twice a week.

• SEA SALT-

It has healing minerals which helps to strengthen nails and adds a gorgeous shine to it. 

How to Use- Take a bowel mix sea salt along with olive oil/coconut oil and water. Soak nails in this solution.

Duration- 15 to 20 minutes.

For best results use it two to three times in a week. 

• Orange Juice

It is another citrus fruit that is rich in vitamin C and E. 

It also help in brightening and strengthening your nails. 

Soak nails in this solution.

How to use– Take fresh orange juice and apply them to nails and cuticles. 

Duration- 15 minutes or can be kept Overnight.

• Shea Butter

It is an amazing remedy for moisturizing your dry nails. It helps to nourish and restore moisture in nails. It helps them to grow strong and heal the damaged ones. You can either use it as an everyday moisturizer or leave it overnight.

• Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are rich in vitamin B, fatty acids, magnesium and potassium. It helps nails to grow strong and long effectively. Also, Add flaxseeds in your diet for other benefits.

How to use- All you need to do is massage flax seed paste or oil into nails and leave overnight.

• Castor Oil

This oil is rich in ricinoleic acid which helps to improve blood circulation and prevents nail fungus. 

How to use- Massage castor oil into nails and cuticles and leave it overnight. Significant changes can be seen within the first use.