Brittle nails: causes, remedies, and products to avoid, which are truly effective.

Brittle nails: why it really happens and what you can do to strengthen them

It happens to everyone at least once: our nails start to flake, break as soon as they grow a few millimeters, become thin and inelastic. It's not just a cosmetic issue: when nails are brittle, it means something in their routine (or in our bodies) needs a little extra attention.

In this guide you will find a complete and practical overview, written as if you were telling it to a friend or a client: causes, mistakes to avoid and products that are really worth using.

Why do nails become brittle?

1. External causes: the most common ones

Most problems arise from what we do every day without realizing it:

  • frequent washing without gloves

  • detergents and chemicals that dry out the foil immediately

  • aggressive removal of nail polish, semi-permanent or gel

  • too intense filing or excessive use of the buffer

  • cuticles pushed back or cut incorrectly

  • continuous micro-traumas (opening packages, peeling labels, using nails as "tools")

These are small actions that, added together over time, make the nail weaker.

2. Internal causes: when the problem comes from within

Sometimes brittle nails are just a sign that the body is asking for something:

  • mineral and vitamin deficiencies

  • thyroid problems

  • hormonal changes

  • natural aging

  • effects of some drugs

In these cases, cosmetics help, but it is essential to understand the underlying cause.

⚠️ When is it best to consult a dermatologist?

If your nails have been brittle for months, are getting worse for no apparent reason, or you notice changes in color, shape, or dark lines, it's a good idea to see a professional.
This isn't to scare you: often, very simple tests are enough to identify a deficiency or small imbalance.

👐 How to strengthen your nails in everyday life

1. Protection first

  • Wear gloves when cleaning and using strong detergents.

  • Avoid keeping your hands in water for too long (especially hot water).

2. Short breaks from treatments

You don't have to stop painting your nails forever, but taking a break every now and then can really help.
Removal is also important: choosing gentler methods and products makes the difference.

3. Moisturize every day

It's amazing how much hydration improves nail strength:

  • cuticle oil every day

  • hand cream on nails too, not just fingers

  • small massages to improve circulation in the matrix

4. A sweeter manicure

  • Always file with the nail completely dry

  • Use soft files, working in one direction only.

  • Avoid cutting your cuticles: push them back only when they are well softened.

  • Limit the buffer to what is strictly necessary

⛔ Things to avoid (if you want stronger nails)

  • Solvents that are too aggressive

  • Hardeners that are too strong or have high formaldehyde levels

  • Frequent and too vigorous filing

  • Using nails as “tools” in everyday things

Many of these mistakes seem insignificant, but in the long run they ruin the foil.

🌸 Products that really work

Strengthening treatments

No “miracle” formulas are needed, but products with:

  • minerals that support the structure of the nail

  • moisturizing ingredients (glycerin, urea, panthenol)

  • nourishing oils

  • formulas without too much formaldehyde

To be used as a base or as a daily treatment.

Oils and creams

Vegetable oils are a wonder: jojoba, almond, argan, avocado.
Shea butter in hand creams offers extra protection, especially in winter.

Supplements (but with a head)

Biotin, zinc, selenium, silicon, collagen: yes, they can help.
But they're especially useful if there's a real deficiency. It's best to talk to your doctor first.

🍽️ Nutrition that supports nail growth

Nails are made up mostly of protein: if your diet is poor, they notice it right away.

To include every day:

  • protein sources (eggs, fish, legumes, lean meats)

  • iron-rich foods

  • nuts and seeds for zinc and selenium

  • colorful fruits and vegetables for antioxidant vitamins

And of course: drink enough water. The nail plate also dehydrates.

📆 A simple and doable weekly routine

Everyday:
cuticle oil + hand cream

Two or three times a week:
strengthening treatment + light filing only if necessary

Once a week:
gentle manicure with short soaking, softened and gently pushed cuticles, strengthening base

Every month:
Monitor the changes: if you don't notice any improvements, a dermatological opinion may be helpful.

🌼 Conclusion

Strengthening brittle nails doesn't require miracles, but consistency.
With more protection, a little hydration, and the right products, the nail plate becomes more elastic and resistant again. Sometimes, changing two or three habits is enough to see surprising results in just a few weeks.

Back to blog