Are you tired of dealing with vertical split nails that keep peeling and breaking? Vertical split nails occur when the nail plate separates down the middle, causing pain and discomfort. This common nail problem can be caused by several factors, including aging, medical conditions, and lack of moisture. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of vertical split nails, prevention techniques, and home remedies to fix them.
Causes of Vertical Split Nails
Vertical split nails can be caused by various factors, including:
Lack of Moisture
One of the leading causes of vertical split nails is a lack of moisture. When your nails are dry, they become brittle and prone to splitting. This is especially true during the winter months when the air is dry and cold. To prevent your nails from drying out, you should moisturize them regularly. Applying a moisturizing lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles will help keep them hydrated and healthy.
Trauma or Injury
Another common cause of vertical split nails is trauma or injury. If you hit your nail against a hard surface or accidentally cut it too short, you can cause a split down the middle. This type of injury can be painful and take a while to heal. To prevent trauma or injury to your nails, you should avoid using your nails as tools and be careful when cutting them.
As we age, our nails become weaker and more prone to splitting. This is because the body produces less collagen, which is the protein that gives our nails their strength and flexibility. To keep your nails healthy as you age, you should eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals and take supplements if necessary.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also cause vertical split nails. These conditions include thyroid disease, psoriasis, and anemia. If you have any of these conditions, you should talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Prevention Techniques for Vertical Split Nails
Preventing vertical split nails is easier than fixing them. Here are some prevention techniques you can use to keep your nails healthy:
Moisturizing Nails Regularly
Moisturizing your nails regularly is one of the best ways to prevent vertical split nails. You should apply a moisturizing lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles at least once a day to keep them hydrated.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals, such as those found in nail polish remover and household cleaners, can dry out your nails and cause them to split. To prevent this, you should avoid using these chemicals as much as possible. If you must use them, wear gloves to protect your nails.
Prevention Techniques for Vertical Split Nails (Continued)
Wearing Gloves While Doing Household Chores
When you do household chores, your nails can be exposed to harsh chemicals and rough surfaces. To prevent your nails from splitting, you should wear gloves while doing these chores. Gloves will protect your nails from damage caused by chemicals and reduce the risk of injury.
Regularly trimming your nails is another way to prevent them from splitting. When your nails are too long, they can catch on things and get bent or broken, causing a split down the middle. To prevent this, you should trim your nails regularly with a pair of sharp, clean nail clippers.
How to Fix a Vertical Split Nail
If you already have a vertical split nail, don’t worry. There are several ways to fix it. Here are some methods you can use to fix a vertical split nail:
Applying Nail Glue
Nail glue is a quick and easy way to fix a vertical split nail. Apply a small amount of nail glue to the split and hold the nail together until the glue dries. Once the glue is dry, you can file the nail to smooth out any rough edges.
Using a Tea Bag and Nail Glue
Another way to fix a vertical split nail is to use a tea bag and nail glue. Cut a small piece of tea bag to the size of the split and apply a layer of nail glue to the split. Place the tea bag on top of the glue and let it dry. Once the glue is dry, you can file the nail to smooth out any rough edges.
Applying a Nail Patch
Nail patches are small pieces of adhesive material that can be applied to the nail to fix a split. To use a nail patch, cut a small piece to the size of the split and apply it to the nail. Press down firmly to ensure it sticks to the nail. Once the patch is applied, you can file the nail to smooth out any rough edges.
If the split is small, you can fix it by filing the nail. Use a soft nail file to gently file the nail in one direction until the split is gone. Be careful not to file too much or too hard, as this can cause more damage to the nail.
Professional Treatment Options
If you have a severe split nail, you may need to see a dermatologist or nail technician for professional treatment. They may recommend a nail wrap or acrylic overlay to help strengthen the nail and prevent further splitting.
By following these prevention techniques and methods for fixing a vertical split nail, you can keep your nails healthy and beautiful.
