Cracked nails can make everyday activities difficult and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are ways to heal them. Let’s explore the reasons why nails may crack, the signs and symptoms to watch out for, and various home remedies and professional treatments to help you restore your nails to their former glory.
Trauma, Dehydration, Nutritional Deficiencies, and Fungal Infections
Cracked nails can be caused by various factors such as trauma, dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, and fungal infections. Trauma occurs when nails are subjected to pressure or impact, like accidentally hitting your finger with a hammer. Dehydration can make nails brittle and prone to cracking, especially if exposed to water or harsh chemicals regularly. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of biotin, vitamin B12, and iron, can also cause brittle nails. Lastly, fungal infections weaken the nail plate and lead to cracking and splitting.
To prevent cracked nails, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate action. For instance, wearing gloves when you often expose your nails to water or harsh chemicals can protect them. If you suspect a fungal infection, consulting a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment is advisable.
Cracked nails manifest various signs and symptoms, such as pain, discoloration, and irregular shape. Pain is a common symptom, especially when the crack is deep or extends to the nail bed. Discoloration may occur due to bleeding under the nail or a fungal infection. An irregular shape can indicate a severe crack that has caused the nail to split or break off entirely.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential. A dermatologist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Home Remedies for Healing Cracked Nails
While severe symptoms require medical attention, you can try several home remedies to heal cracked nails. These remedies are often more affordable than professional treatments and can be easily found in your kitchen or local drugstore.
Olive Oil: Natural Moisturizer
Olive oil is a natural moisturizer that strengthens and nourishes your nails. To utilize olive oil for cracked nails, warm it slightly and massage it into your nails and cuticles. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat this process daily for visible improvement.
Tea Tree Oil: Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties
Tea tree oil possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it effective in treating fungal infections and preventing further damage. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil, and apply it to your nails and cuticles. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat daily until your nails heal.
Coconut oil is another excellent natural moisturizer that aids in healing cracked nails. It contains lauric acid, which possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties, effectively preventing infections. To utilize coconut oil, warm it slightly and massage it into your nails and cuticles. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat daily to witness improvement.
Epsom Salt: Natural Exfoliant
Epsom salt is a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells and promotes healthy nail growth. Mix a tablespoon of Epsom salt with warm water in a bowl and soak your nails in the mixture for 10-15 minutes. Rinse your nails with warm water and pat them dry. Repeat this process twice a week for noticeable improvement.
By following these home remedies, you can heal your cracked nails and prevent further damage. However, it’s important to remember that these remedies may take time to work and are not overnight solutions. Consult a dermatologist for further treatment options if you have severe symptoms or if you don’t observe improvement after a few weeks.
Professional Treatments for Cracked Nails
In cases where home remedies fail or severe symptoms persist, professional treatments may be necessary. Some professional treatments for cracked nails include nail repair kits, acrylic nails, and gel nails.
Nail Repair Kits: Special Adhesives and Powders
Nail repair kits are a popular option for healing cracked nails. They contain special adhesives and powders that fill in cracks and strengthen the nail. Follow the instructions carefully, applying the adhesive and powder to the crack, allowing it to dry before filing and buffing your nails.
Acrylic nails, made from a mixture of liquid and powder, can protect your cracked nails and promote healthy growth. However, they require maintenance and should be removed properly to avoid damage to your natural nails.
Gel Nails: Protection and Healthy Growth
Similar to acrylic nails, gel nails are made of a gel-like substance that is cured under UV light. They also help protect cracked nails and promote healthy growth. Proper maintenance and removal are essential to prevent damage to your natural nails.
By consulting a dermatologist or nail technician, you can determine which professional treatment is best suited for healing your cracked nails.
Stay tuned for the next sections, where we will explore prevention tips to keep your nails healthy and discuss additional measures to maintain their strength and resilience.
