Healthy and well-groomed nails are always eye-catching. Everyone wants healthy, perfectly shaped nails with a stunning shine. Brittle fingernails are often hidden because many people look at their hands first. However, most of us have to do something to ensure this. Natural nails also require optimal care . Splitting of the nail (onychoschisis), in which the fingernail splinters off in layers, and a fracture of the nail along its length (onychorrhexis) can have various causes.

What causes brittle nails?

External influences

There are many different reasons for brittle fingernails. The most common cause is the use of harsh cleaning products and chemicals . Washing up, in particular, softens the fingernails, and the detergent removes oil from the nails. Frequent hand washing and disinfection also dry out the nails, making them prone to breakage.

Another cause of brittle nails is the change in weather from dry, warm weather to cold winter air. Our toenails and fingernails are always supplied with the same amount of moisture. In winter, the warm indoor air and the cold outdoor air cause the nails to dry out, becoming cracked and brittle. Cracked nails, in turn, lose even more moisture and break.

Nutrient deficiency

Another reason for brittle fingernails and brittle hair can be a nutrient deficiency. Healthy and strong nails require a variety of minerals and trace elements such as iron, zinc, and calcium. Iron deficiency, in particular, can cause ridges and white spots on the nails. We've compiled an overview of the most important nutrients:

• Water - At least 1.5 to 2 liters daily of still water, mineral water and herbal and fruit teas.
• Zinc & Vitamin C - ensures good wound healing and sufficient collagen production. Zinc is found primarily in meat, cheese, and milk. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Excellent sources of vitamin C include bell peppers, parsley, sea buckthorn, cabbage, potatoes, spinach, and citrus fruits.
• Biotin & Selenium - Biotin helps produce keratin, the basic substance for skin, hair, and nails. It is found in eggs, oatmeal, nuts, soybeans, wheat germ, and mushrooms. Nuts and mushrooms, meat, and fish also contain selenium, which protects cells from oxidative stress.
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) - Riboflavin is a so-called "growth vitamin." Meat, dairy products, and whole grains are good sources of B vitamins.

Poor quality gel and acrylic nails

Unprofessional manicure can damage the horny layer of the fingernail and the nail bed , causing brittle nails. If the nail technician is inexperienced, cavities can form between the artificial and natural nail, harboring fungi and bacteria. When performing a manicure, it's essential to use high-quality tools such as pliers, clippers, and scissors to avoid fine cracks in the nail.

Other diseases

Soft and brittle fingernails can also be caused by various other conditions. Psoriasis or nail fungus weaken the natural nail and make it brittle. An overactive or underactive thyroid and the use of certain medications can also make nails soft and therefore prone to cracks and splitting.

What helps against brittle (finger)nails

Gloves when cleaning

If you frequently come into contact with chemicals at home or at work, it's best to wear a combination of two different gloves . The cotton glove ensures good ventilation for your nails. The waterproof rubber glove on top keeps water and cleaning agents out. It's best to order the second glove a size larger so it doesn't become too tight for your fingers. If your hands are in prolonged contact with water, a moisturizing hand cream can help prevent brittle fingernails.

Balanced diet

A balanced diet lays the foundation for healthy nail growth and helps prevent brittle fingernails. Ensuring an adequate supply of the basic building blocks of water, zinc & vitamin C, biotin & selenium, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and iron doesn't require a special diet plan. For healthy nails, simply include fruits and vegetables, nuts and eggs, as well as fish, meat, and dairy products on your table regularly.

Regular hand and nail care

Regular care with high-quality nail products is very important for strong and healthy nails . We can't always prevent external influences or a lack of nutrients from contributing to brittle nails. Therefore, you should use high-quality tools during your manicure to avoid exposing your nails to additional stress.

The emmi®NAIL care products , with their special formula , ensure that the active ingredients are absorbed into the nail and coat it with a protective layer to prevent brittleness. Our rich hand care is, of course, part of your regular care routine to combat brittle fingernails.

The emmi®NAIL VCB Bomb gives natural nails a vitamin boost . Containing vitamins F, C, A (retinol), H (biotin), and calcium, it moisturizes and strengthens brittle nails. The care polish also provides additional elasticity, protects against damage, and supports the growth of healthy nails.

If you already have brittle fingernails, the emmi®NAIL Nail Hardener Deluxe Polish with a natural shine effect can help. As a nail polish, it strengthens and seals soft, brittle fingernails and protects them from chipping. The new, innovative formula helps soft nails gain strength and makes them more resistant to external influences.

The air-drying 6-in-1 nail polish-based polish from emmi®NAIL is a must-have for any manicure for brittle nails. The ridge filler provides an even base and strengthens the nail. The top coat protects the color and the nail polish, provides a long-lasting high shine, and allows the nail polish to dry quickly.

We've packed the right nail care for beautiful nails for you in our practical "Brittle Nails" set . It contains the Vitamin Kick, the Nail Hardener, and the 6-in-1 Polish. Treat your nails and order nail care for brittle nails quickly, conveniently, and on account from our Trusted Shop-certified emmi®NAIL online shop.