Who Hasn’t Had a Peeling Nail?
If you know me, you know my motto "Health is beauty!"
Needed to be said, when it comes to people and their nails, care and preferences vary.
Some people can’t go without having perfectly manicured nails and will do everything to keep them flawless, others use them merely as tools, some bite them, while others only care for them during festive occasions—and so on.
Regardless, the truth is that nails are a window into our overall health. Their color, shape, and thickness are key indicators.
Before we dive into the main causes of nail peeling, it’s important to explain what nails are made of and how to recognize a healthy nail.
What are the nails made off:
Nails are mostly composed of keratin, but they also contain various types of proteins, minerals—such as sulfur, calcium (less than 0.1%), zinc, and phosphorus—natural lipids (oils), and water.
Unlike skin, nails have a much higher percentage of water than lipids—7% to 14% water compared to 0.1% to 1% lipids—which can vary from person to person.
Characteristics of a Healthy Nail:
The color must be slightly pink, all of the same color and free of pits
The nail plate surface should be smooth and uniform, without pits or grooves.
The nail plate’s consistency should be hard, yet flexible.
The cuticles show no signs of irritation, cracks, or peeling skin.
Common Causes of Nail Peeling (Hands and Feet):
“Normal” Peeling: It´s caused by the way we daily use our hands and nails. Actions like scraping a sticker, tapping or scratching repeatedly on hard surfaces, and overusing alcohol-based products and disinfectants can all lead to peeling.
Trauma-Related Peeling: Certain habits can stress nails and make them peel - for example, peeling off nail polish or gel, biting the nails, climbing, running, hiking, or any other sports that impact the tips of the fingers or toes.
Excessive Water Exposure: While drinking water hydrates the body, prolonged exposure (like soaking) has the opposite effect—it dehydrates nails and strips them of their natural oils, causing peeling and flaking at the tips.
Genetics or Age-Related Peeling: This affects about 20% of the population, especially women over the age of 50.
Nutritional Deficiencies: What we eat has a massive influence on our entire body, and nails are no exception. Low levels of calcium, iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins are some of the key nutrients for healthy nails and a healthy body.
Peeling Caused by Medical Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis (which usually results in chronic delamination), eczema, alopecia, or thyroid issues can contribute to nail peeling.
Peeling Caused by Fungal or Bacterial Infections: In these cases, in addition to peeling, there may be changes in color, thickness, and other alterations.
How to Keep Nails Healthy:
Maintain a rich and balanced diet.
Avoid buffing or filing the top of your nails with buffers or any type of file.
Keep your hands and nails dry and wear gloves when performing activities that involve extended exposure to water or chemicals.
If you suspect a health issue or infection, seek medical attention immediately.
Be consistent with your daily nail care routine—it takes time to see results. There are no miracles.
Use a specific treatment oil for nails and cuticles.
If you’re unsure of the cause, always seek professional advice.
Listen to the professional who takes care of you. Just because a friend does something doesn’t mean it’s suitable for you. There are many materials on the market, and not all are right for everyone.
Kisses,SaL
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