What Causes Brittle Nails? Your Ultimate Guide to Stronger, Healthier Nails

What Causes Brittle Nails? Your Ultimate Guide to Stronger, Healthier Nails

Hey there! If you’ve ever looked down at your hands and wondered why your nails keep splitting, cracking, or peeling—like they’re staging a mini rebellion—you’re not alone. Brittle nails are a super common problem, and they can feel like a total mystery. Are they just weak? Is it something you’re doing wrong? Or is there a hidden reason behind it that no one’s talking about? Let’s dig into this together and figure out what’s really going on with those fragile fingernails (and toenails too!).

In this guide, we’re going to uncover all the surprising causes of brittle nails—from the stuff you’d never guess (like your secret late-night dishwashing habit) to the science-backed reasons your body might be sending you a signal. We’ll also share practical tips to fix them, some cool new research, and a few quirky nail hacks you won’t find anywhere else. Ready to say goodbye to chipped nails and hello to a stronger mani? Let’s get started!

Why Do Nails Get Brittle Anyway?

Nails might seem like tiny, tough shields, but they’re actually pretty sensitive. They’re made of a protein called keratin—the same stuff in your hair and skin—and when something throws them off balance, they can turn brittle faster than you can say “manicure.” Brittle nails split, peel, or break easily, and they often look dull or rough. But what’s causing this chaos? Turns out, it’s a mix of everyday habits, sneaky health issues, and even some things you’d never suspect. Let’s break it down.