But others can signal health concerns, especially changes in nail color and growth patterns. Your nails are part of your skin. They are made up of layers of the protein keratin and grow from beneath the base of the nail under your cuticle. As new cells grow, older cells become hard and compacted and are eventually pushed out toward your fingertips. Healthy nails are smooth, without ridges, grooves, spots or discoloration. Nails can develop harmless conditions, such as vertical ridges that run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail.
Vertical ridges often become more prominent with age. Nails can also develop white lines or spots as a result of injury, but these grow out with the nail and do not cause problems. In some cases, a change in your nails may be caused by stress in your body. Use lotion frequently. Avoid excessive hand sanitizer. Share on Pinterest If a person has to use hand sanitizer, they should use only a small amount.
Wear gloves when using cleaning products. Avoid excessive exposure to water. Consume enough protein. Check medications. When to see a doctor. Share on Pinterest A doctor can advise on whether any supplements to strengthen nails will interact with other medication. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help?
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Why do we need biotin vitamin B7? Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. All you need to know about ridges in fingernails. Medically reviewed by Elaine K. Luo, M. Tenoverten Non-Acetone Polish Remover. Because hand sanitizers are typically alcohol-based, constantly applying the stuff can dry out your nails and leave them super brittle.
Using hand sanitizer wipes can make it easier to avoid the nail area during application—or if you prefer the liquid variety, make sure to slather on moisturizer afterward to balance the scales. Avoid yo-yo dieting, which can lead to vitamin deficiencies that may put the strength of your nails in jeopardy. Make sure you eat enough protein and calcium too, which are thought to promote nail health, says Robin Evans, MD , Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Loading up on biotin-rich foods , such as veggies, eggs, and nuts, may also help. Generally, most adults should be getting 30 micrograms mcg of biotin daily, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The typical recommended supplemental dose is roughly up to 3, mcg daily for six months, according to the Cleveland Clinic , but your doctor may recommend less or more, depending on your personal health. But if your nails do become stronger and you decide to make biotin supplementation a regular thing, make sure you stop taking them a few days before getting any lab tests done, as large amounts of biotin in your system can skew test results.
Prescription topical agents, such as Nuvail and Genadur, can help to strengthen weakened nails. While OTC nail hardeners can do the trick in the short-term, prescription strengtheners are the best choice for long-term use, since they contain chemicals that both increase the strength of the nail and trap moisture in to prevent future brittleness. Avoid using gel or acrylic nails, if possible.
Give your nails a break from polish. Keep your nails on the shorter side. Use lotion on your nails. Avoid drying products. Change how you file your nails. Use cleaning products with caution.
Take a closer look at your shampoo. Talk to your doctor. Pay attention to your nails. Read this next. Peeling Nails. Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. How Fast Do Nails Grow? Contributing Factors and Tips for Growth. What Is Onychorrhexis? Medically reviewed by Avi Varma, MD.
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