Brittle Nails
The cause could be external, which is more common, or sometimes due to internal disorders. External Factors include overexposure to detergents, polishes, nail polish removers and other drying agents. Here are some tips on how to manage Brittle Nails :
- If you have to use detergents, wash your hands slowly with a mild soap as soon as you have finished and apply cold cream or oil.
- Use creams containing lactic acid and urea every night and as frequently as possible during the day. Such creams are available at the chemist’s.
- Once or twice a week, soak your fingers in tolerably hot olive oil for 10-15 minutes. Massage the olive oil over your nails, fingers and hands and leave it on overnight.
- Wear cotton gloves after application of the oil or the cream to accentuate their effect.
- You can use nail polish even as a protection, but avoid removing it too frequently.
- Increase your protein intake. Skimmed milk or curd is the best - there’s the added benefit of not putting on weight.