- Answers to Questions -

Reader: “How do you stop the nail from breaking and going soft? I paint it and follow most of your advice and its still going soft and snapping. xxx”

Dear Reader,

Thank you for taking the time to inbox me your question ;) as I say, no question gets unanswered.

So here’s your answer:

First of all you need to know what causes it and then how to protect and prevent your nails to become like so again. One of the most common reasons nails become brittle is excessive dishwashing. Nope, this isn’t a reason to avoid washing dishes and cleaning the kitchen. Simply protect your hands with gloves. It can also occur when hands and nails are exposed to harsh chemicals as might occur in a work related setting. Splitting fingernails may also be caused by the overuse of nail polish removers and repeated trauma to the nail bed. Cold weather can certainly make this condition worse, particularly when you venture outside without warm gloves or other hand protection. Although other reasons to it may be for medical reasons which means that you have not been eating enough and need to change your eating habbits, I hope that is not the case ;)

The good news is that splitting fingernails can be corrected with some simple changes to your normal routine:


1) Reduce Exposure to Water, specially extremely cold water.

2) Change Your Manicure Practices.

Nail polish remover is another chemical that can contribute to splitting fingernails. Apply a coat of nail polish with nylon fibers to give your nails added strength and support. This coat should be applied frequently to give maximum protection. Keep nails cut, short with well rounded tips to reduce the risk of quicker breakage. This meaning that you should avoid cutting your nails and instead file them from outwards to inwards.

3) Apply Moisture to Your Nail Beds.

4) Be Gentle With Your Fingernails.

Don’t use your unprotected fingernails to scrape or remove stickers or other items that require pressure on the nail. Treat your hands and nails as gently as possible throughout the day.

5) Should You Take A Vitamin or Nutritional Supplement?

Although a multivitamin might be useful if you’re suffering from a mineral deficiency.

6) If The Problem Persists.

If these simple changes don’t work, you may want to seek the expertise of a dermatologist.

Hope this helped you out =) sorry for the late reply.

Yours Truly,

MJ xx