Weak nails: causes, clarified doubts and recommended products

Weak nails are usually thin and flake off easily, and may also have stains and irregularities. The weakening can have numerous causes, such as, for example, coming from the lack of a certain vitamin or iron in the body or from poor routine and hygiene habits. See other possible causes and clarify your main doubts on the subject.

9 reasons for weak nails

Fabiana Seidl (CRM-RJ 5287852-9), specialist dermatologist at the Brazilian Society of Dermatology and co-author of the book Nail Diseases, explains that brittle nail syndrome, or SUF, is characterized by decreased nail resistance, which causes the nails become brittle and brittle.

This condition is more common in women, highlights the doctor, and can have numerous causes, among which can be cited:

1. hypothyroidism
2. Anemia
3. nail infections
4. circulatory problems
5. Very restrictive diets (causing, for example, a lack of vitamin D and iron in the body)
6. Bariatric surgery (as, in some cases, stomach shrinkage results in decreased absorption of nutrients important for healthy nail growth)
7. Repetitive nail trauma
8. External factors such as exposure to chemical agents (detergents and cleaning products, for example)
9. Abusive use of nail polish removers with acetone

Fabiana adds that the nails of the elderly, because they have a lower percentage of lipids, are also more susceptible to becoming weak.

Dermatologists clarify doubts

When the person realizes that they have weak nails, it is normal to have doubts. Check out the clarification for the main issues below.

Which vitamin is missing when the nail is weak?

“It is very difficult to say which vitamin is lacking, as there are several factors involved. It can be due to lack of iron, vitamin D, zinc, calcium, vitamin B, among others. But we know that oral biotin supplementation (vitamin B7) stimulates the formation of keratin, which justifies its use in restoring the health and strength of nails”, explains Fabiana.

What beauty habits can be harmful to nails?

Mônica Fialho (CRM-RJ 732630), a dermatologist at the Barraskin clinic, in Rio de Janeiro, an effective partner at SBD and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, comments that nails are sensitive structures and the shared use of pliers or cuticle spatulas is common in some beauty salons, it can cause infections.

“Frequent use of acetone can also make nails more brittle, as can using artificial nails. It is important to remember that the cuticle should not be removed, as this leaves the nail unprotected and facilitates the entry of fungi and bacteria”, adds Mônica.

What is good for strengthening nails?

Hydrate the nail plate, replies Fabiana. “There are specific emollient products, which should be applied two to three times a day. When doing your nails, it is also important to use strengthening bases with keratin, but at the same time you should be careful with formaldehyde-based nail polishes, as there are cases of worsening of SUF and development of contact dermatitis”, she explains.

Is there any home remedy to strengthen weak nails?

“Massaging the nails with olive oil helps to increase the lipid composition of the nails. Castor oil has fatty acids and vitamin E, promoting hydration and antioxidant action. In addition, almond oil also works very well to hydrate”, highlights Fabiana.

What foods can strengthen nails?

“The ideal is to maintain a diet with a good amount of protein and a variety of fruits and vegetables. In addition, foods such as peanuts, walnuts, almonds, tomatoes, eggs, carrots, cauliflower and liver are natural sources of biotin and can contribute to nail health,” explains Fabiana.

Can staying in nail polish for a long time (without taking a break) weaken nails?

The use of enamel without pause can predispose to a fungal infection, answers Fabiana. In addition, it can generate weakening and drying. “I don’t see a problem with painting my nails every week, as long as I go about two days without nail polish to properly hydrate the nail plate”, highlights dermatologist Fabiana.

Does having the habit of biting your nails make them weaker?

“This habit is very bad and can cause serious problems, such as deformities and infections and, consequently, a weaker and more brittle nail”, Fabiana answers.

What is the treatment for weak nails?

“Treatment depends on whether there is an underlying cause or not, such as hypothyroidism. So it is essential that the patient is evaluated in a consultation with the dermatologist to be able to establish the cause and the appropriate treatment”, highlights Fabiana.

Mônica comments that, for example, antifungals and even oral medication may be indicated in more serious cases.

What can I do to keep my nails healthy and strong?

“Avoid the use of acetone, prefer nail polish removers without this compound; constantly hydrate the nail plate; have a diversified and balanced diet; wearing gloves to handle chemicals and to wash dishes; keep nails well trimmed and filed; not make use of any type of artificial nail”, guides Fabiana.

Mônica also adds that those who are in the habit of handling water and cleaning products a lot should wear gloves for these activities.

It is worth noting that anyone who suffers from a nail problem should look for a dermatologist so that the diagnosis is made and the correct treatment is indicated. “Depending on the case, further investigation with nail plate or matrix biopsy and laboratory tests may be necessary. The supplementation of biotin and other vitamins and minerals, if there is any deficiency, must be correctly oriented”, emphasizes Fabiana.

5 products for weak nails

Discover some products that can help strengthen nails and make them healthier.

1. LCN Nail Care Moisturizing Pen for Nails and Cuticles, at Beauty on the Web
2. Granado’s SOS base
3. Hardening Enamel for Nails 5ml, at Beleza na Web
4. Blant Keratin Strengthening Foundation, at Ikesaki
5. A Natura Strengthening Base

It is worth mentioning that the best way is always to look for a dermatologist who will investigate the cause of the weakening of the nails and indicate the most appropriate treatment. Enjoy and ask your questions about nail strengthener.