One of the most popular self-care treatments in a spa or salon is a manicure or artificial nail enhancements. I’m sure you can agree that well-groomed nails can make you feel and look better. But, if your nails are thin, peeling, and cracked, you can feel a bit embarrassed to have your nails done.
In BEAUTY TECHNOLOGY / NAIL TECHNOLOGY / BEAUTY AND NAIL / COSMETOLOGY we find that nearly 20% of the world population suffers from weak, brittle nails. So, what could be causing your nails to break so easily? Below our experts have summarised the top reasons for weak and splitting nails, and what you can do to improve these conditions.
- CONSTANT GEL MANICURE APPLICATIONS
In BEAUTY TECHNOLOGY / NAIL TECHNOLOGY / BEAUTY AND NAIL / COSMETOLOGY gel manicures look beautiful, and last longer than a traditional manicure with nail polish. They are great for anyone who wants a long-lasting effect making them a great option for special occasions or even holidays. Unfortunately, they can affect the health of your nails. In fact, they can lead to brittleness, peeling, and cracking. But here is the thing, it’s not the gel that is to blame, it’s the acetone that is used to soak the gel off the nail plate, it makes the nail dry and brittle. Nail technicians can also cause damage when over filing and buffing the nail plate to ensure the gel has a good surface to adhere to which contributes to the problem.
How do I fix it?
If you have a standing monthly appointment at your nail salon, perhaps think about taking a break between gel manicures. Alternate between gel and nail polish. Keep your nails and cuticles moisturised by regularly applying creams and oils.
- PICKING OFF GEL OR NAIL POLISH
Peeling off gel or nail polish when your manicure starts to chip, or lift is not a definite no. When you peel gel or polish off the nail plate it also removes the top layer of your nails, over time this will lead to thinning of the nail plate and make the nails very fragile. It can take months for your nails to grow back healthy again.
How do I fix it?
Do not peel off your nail polish or gel! Try a non-acetone polish remover to remove traditional nail polish without weakening them any further. When removing gel polish, allow them to soak thoroughly, and don’t over-scrape or pull the gel off. This causes severe damage to the nail plate.
3 CLEANING WITHOUT GLOVES
Cleaning your kitchen and bathroom is a necessary chore. But repeated, prolonged exposure to chemicals found in cleaners as well as soap and water will weaken your nails, leaving them brittle and prone to splitting.
How do I fix it?
This one’s very easy, put on a pair of rubber gloves before cleaning. This will prevent the chemicals from touching your nails and skin while you clean. You can also apply a moisturizing cream before putting the gloves on to provide some intensive moisture while you’re wearing those gloves. Biotin is also a great supplement recommended for healthy hair and nails.
- NOT EATING A WELL-BALANCED DIET
Sometimes, brittle, or misshapen nails are caused by a vitamin or nutrient deficiency. This could be from any number of shortfalls, including various vitamins (like A, C, or D) biotin, and iron.
How do I fix it?
Eat a healthy diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals or supplement with oral vitamins and minerals.
- USING YOUR NAILS AS TOOLS
If you tend to use your nails to scrape, peel, or pick things off, then you leave yourself open to breaking your nails. While nails can be handy to pick something off, rather find a tool that is suited for the job.
How do I fix it?
No surprise here, we strongly encourage you to use actual tools, like scissors for example, for peeling, or scraping, instead of your nails.
- YOUR AGE
Unfortunately, you can’t stop the hands of time, and nails often become thinner or more brittle as you age. This may be the result of collagen depletion as we age.
How do I fix it?
Apply a nail strengthener to fortify thinning nails caused by aging. You can also take some of the other measures we have already mentioned above like avoiding gel manicures, wearing gloves when cleaning, making sure you get enough biotin and using hand creams and cuticle oil frequently.
In BEAUTY TECHNOLOGY / NAIL TECHNOLOGY / BEAUTY AND NAIL / COSMETOLOGY having thin or weak nails isn’t necessarily a sign of an underlying condition. Lots of different lifestyle factors can come into play. Take care of your nails and maintain a healthy diet. If you see any improvement in your nails after doing all the homecare advice, talk to your doctor to rule out any medical causes for poor nail health.
We offer courses in BEAUTY TECHNOLOGY / NAIL TECHNOLOGY / BEAUTY AND NAIL / COSMETOLOGY. Talk to one of our career consultants to start your career in beauty and nails today.