In a world where there are so many types of nail polish – acrylic, gel, polygel, dip powder – it can be easy to forget regarding taking care of your natural nails.
The look and feel of natural nails can often be an indication of your general health. For example, some nail signs might indicate a vitamin deficiency, or a more serious medical condition that may require a doctor’s visit.
In any case, it’s important to know the signs if you suspect you have unhealthy nails.
Causes of unhealthy nails
According to Dana Stern, a dermatologist and nail specialist (New York), unhealthy nails can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the use of harmful ingredients in some nail products, like formaldehyde. .She says: ‘Formaldehyde-containing nail strengtheners cause nails to become excessively brittle and can lead to onychomycosis, also known as delamination’.
In addition, overexposure to acetone can significantly dehydrate nails leading to brittleness and peeling. Other causes of unhealthy nails include traumatic injury, such as hitting the nail or removing the cuticle. Genetic predispositions may also play a role in nail health.
Overexposure to acetone can significantly dehydrate nails leading to brittleness.
Dr Stern said: ‘There is a genetic component to brittle nails and a direct correlation with aging. Nails get nutrients and oxygen from the blood. However, if you tend to have poor peripheral circulation, your nails may not be getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
In addition, overuse of artificial products such as nail polish, gel or acrylic makes nails brittle and dehydrated, says Michelle Saunders, a famous nail artist in New York: ‘The process of taking and removing the nails. This nail improver can also remove the layers of your natural nails’.
Signs of unhealthy nails
Syreeta Aaron, a professional nail artist (New York) says: ‘Signs that your nails are not healthy are ridges on the nails, brittle nails and discoloration. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), yellow discoloration can be the result of nail polish or smoking. However, yellow, thick and stopped growing nails can be caused by lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis in severe cases.
A sign that your nails are not healthy are the ridges on the nails.
If you notice a greenish-black discoloration, this might be a sign of a bacterial infection. However, a dark streak on the nail can be a sign of skin cancer. The AAD recommends that you make an appointment with a dermatologist when you see any discoloration on your nails to fully understand the cause and appropriate treatment.
‘Other noticeable signs of unhealthy nails include grooves, pitting and clumping nails. Deep grooves and pits in your nails look like someone stuck a toothpick in your nail. Grooves in the nails are not usually a cause for concern, but can be a sign that something has slowed (or stopped) nail growth for a while,’ the AAD said.
Aaron said: ‘Toenails that are getting thicker or thinner are also a sign that they are not healthy. When nails become too thin, they can start to sink in the middle and take on a spoon-like shape, which might be due to an iron deficiency.
What to do if you suspect you have unhealthy nails?
Saunders recommends: ‘Healthy nails have a natural shine and flexibility. They are even and the cuticles are intact. If your nails are peeling, it’s best to make an appointment with a dermatologist for a professional opinion’.
Nails that are getting thicker or thinner are also a sign that they are not healthy.
To maintain healthy nails, Dr. Stern recommends taking a break from processed products like gels, acrylics, and polishes. If you can’t, make sure you’re gentle when removing nail accessories and look for products with skin-friendly ingredients. “Look for nail treatments that have real scientific merit and are formulated with natural ingredients,” says Dr. Stern.
Essential supplements will help maintain the beauty and health of your nails.
Also, moisturizing your nails with cuticle oil can be of great help. Saunders says: ‘Nails love oils. Nails are made of the protein keratin, so you should treat your nails as gently as you would your hair’.
Aaron recommends getting enough vitamin C, biotin, zinc, iron and magnesium, to ensure your nails receive the nutrients they need to maintain beauty and health.
