It is estimated that about 20% of the population has brittle nails. You know, those nails that won’t grow long because they are always splitting and tearing at the edge or because they are too weak and thin. Rarely, this can be caused by a medical condition or malnutrition but most often it is simply dehydration of the nails caused by frequent hand-washing, chemicals and even just a dry environment.

Surprisingly, the application of nail enamel is one way to combat the condition because it seals the nail, preventing further dehydration. Unfortunately, nail polish remover is one of the most drying things you can use on nails, so you don’t want to use remover more than once a week.

In medical studies, Biotin, one of the B-complex vitamins has been shown to strengthen nails and decrease brittleness and splitting. This discovery was made originally by veterinarians, who used Biotin supplements to cure hoof problems in horses and make them harder. However, the amounts used in the study far exceed the recommended daily allowance. The best thing you can do for your nails is to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Medical experts all agree that deficiencies in dietary nutrition can affect the health and growth of fingernails.

If you suffer from brittle nails, keep them short. Avoid excessive exposure of the nails to harsh household chemicals and too-frequent hand-washing. Keep your hands and nails moisturized, soak the nails once a week in a hot oil treatment designed for that purpose and wear nail polish to seal in the moisture. A good choice is Sally Hansen’s Hard as Nails. In time you will grow longer, stronger nails that won’t split and tear.