Pourquoi vos ongles se cassent-ils ? Causes et solutions naturelles

Why Do Your Nails Break? Causes and Natural Solutions

Dec 20, 2024

Your nails, although often neglected, play a crucial role in our daily lives. They reflect not only your personal hygiene, but also your general health. However, it happens that they become fragile and break without really understanding why. You can offer a temporary solution to strengthen your nails with a nail hardener polish , it is essential to understand the root causes. So, what are the reasons for this fragility? And above all, how to remedy it naturally?

Understanding the structure of the nail to better protect it

Before you dive into nail care, it's essential to understand the structure of your nails. Composed primarily of keratin, a fibrous, sulfur-rich protein, they're divided into several key parts: the root, which is located under the skin and initiates nail growth; the body, the visible part that protects the tips of your fingers; and the lunula, the small, whitish, crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail.

By understanding these components, you can better protect your nails by adopting appropriate care. For example, avoiding harsh chemicals and filing your nails properly will help keep your nails strong and healthy. Also, limit mechanical impacts such as repetitive tapping or excessive use of manicure.

Finally, don't neglect protecting your cuticles, the little skins that line your nails. They play a crucial role in forming a barrier against infections. Moisturize them regularly to prevent them from drying out and tearing, thus providing additional reinforcement to your nails.

Your Nails' Enemies: Habits to Avoid

For starters, while applying nail polish can make your hands look beautiful, if you're not careful, it can also make your nails more fragile in the long run. The chemicals in some harsh polishes and removers tend to dry out your nails, making them more likely to break.

Then, aggressive manicures should also be avoided. Indeed, the continuous use of metal files or intensive polishing can damage the delicate surface of the nails. Opt for a glass or cardboard file, and be careful not to overdo the filing sessions.

Beyond manicure sessions, excessive contact with water is another silent but devastating player. When your nails are constantly exposed to water, they absorb it and become weak. That’s why it’s essential to wear gloves when doing household chores that involve water.

Frequent use of false nails or extensions can also put undue pressure on your natural nails. Wearing them too often can harm their health and create a state of continuous fragility.

Finally, don't forget the hidden but real impact of certain aspects of your lifestyle. Lack of sleep, stress, and an unbalanced diet all contribute to the process of weakening nails. It is therefore crucial to ensure a healthy lifestyle to support the beauty and strength of your nails.

Nutritional deficiencies: when your nails sound the alarm

Your nails are true messengers of your overall health. When they become brittle, split, or ridged, they may be trying to signal that your diet is lacking certain essential nutrients. An iron deficiency, for example, can result in brittle nails—a sign that shouldn't be ignored, as it's often linked to anemia.

The role of minerals: In addition, magnesium, zinc and calcium deficiencies can also affect the strength of your nails. Magnesium helps prevent splitting, zinc is crucial for their growth and calcium for their hardness. It is therefore wise to check if your diet includes enough of these minerals.

Vitamins to the rescue: Vitamins B and C also play a vital role. A biotin deficiency, for example, can lead to thin and brittle nails. While vitamin C, which is necessary for the production of collagen, ensures the elasticity and strength of the nails.

If your nails seem weaker than usual, take a closer look at your plate and make sure it is rich and varied.

Finally, it may be relevant to consider a course of specialized food supplements, to manage these occasional deficiencies. However, a consultation with a health professional is always recommended before starting such an approach.

Grandma's Secrets for Healthy Nails

Our grandmothers always had a trick on hand to take care of our nails. These time-tested methods combine simplicity and effectiveness thanks to natural ingredients that are often found in our kitchens.

Olive oil is one of those forgotten treasures. It is renowned for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Simply soak your fingertips in a small bowl of warm olive oil for ten to fifteen minutes, once or twice a week. This bath will strengthen your nails and soften your cuticles.

Next, consider lemon juice , a great ally for whitening and revitalizing your nails. Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice with a tablespoon of baking soda to form a paste. Apply it to your nails, massaging gently, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. This treatment also offers a double action by removing stains.

Let's not forget castor oil , often used to strengthen and accelerate hair growth, it works wonders on nails. Before going to bed, apply a few drops to each of your nails and massage gently for complete absorption. For best results, repeat this ritual regularly.

Finally, explore the virtues of . Its antifungal and strengthening properties can prevent the development of brittleness. Gently rub a piece of garlic on your nails or dip them in a homemade concoction of crushed garlic and oil.

These simple tips are not only economical, but they also offer you a wellness break at home. By integrating these grandmother's secrets into your routine, you will restore strength and vitality to your nails naturally.

Hydration: Your Secret Weapon Against Brittle Nails

Moisturizing is more than just adding cream. Think of your nails like plants; without a consistent supply of moisture, they become dry and brittle. By incorporating a few simple yet effective steps into your daily routine, you can transform your dehydrated nails into a showcase of health and strength.

Oil is your friend: Every night, take a few minutes to massage your nails with a nourishing oil, such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. These natural oils not only deeply hydrate the keratin in your nails, but also strengthen their flexibility and prevent them from splitting.

Don't underestimate the power of external hydration! Regularly using a moisturizer specifically designed for nails and cuticles can make a big difference. Choose a formula enriched with vitamins E and B5 to promote the growth and strength of your nails.

Finally, don’t forget that hydration starts from the inside out. Drink enough water every day to keep your body hydrated, because hydrated nails start with a hydrated body. By following these tips, you’ll discover that hydration can truly be your secret weapon for strong, healthy nails.

Foods rich in biotin: boost the growth of your nails

Biotin plays a vital role in strengthening and growing nails. This B vitamin, also known as vitamin B8 or H, is essential for maintaining the health of your nails. But where can you find it? Include foods such as eggs, almonds, spinach, and avocados in your diet. The latter are not only tasty but also particularly rich in biotin.

For those looking for a natural approach, brewer's yeast is a great ally. Not only does it contain a healthy dose of biotin, but it also provides other essential nutrients that benefit your nails.

Dietary supplements can also be a solution, especially if you have trouble getting enough biotin from your diet alone. However, be sure to choose a quality product, ideally enriched with zinc and vitamin B6 to maximize the beneficial effects on your nails.

So adopt a varied and balanced diet to pamper your nails from the inside. This way, they will not only be stronger but also apparently more resistant to daily wear and tear.

Conclusion

Taking care of your nails is not just about aesthetics, it’s also about overall health. By understanding the causes of brittle nails and incorporating natural solutions into your daily routine, you can strengthen your nails and prevent future damage. Whether it’s adjusting your diet, adopting a rigorous nail care routine, or avoiding certain harmful habits, every little change can make a big difference. So, take the time to pamper your nails and enjoy perfectly healthy hands.

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