Having damaged and split nails can be frustrating and affect the overall appearance of your hands. If you're looking for ways to repair and improve their condition, there are simple ways to help you achieve healthy and strong nails. Read on for expert tips such as:

• Why do nails split and break?

• Tips to help keep your nails healthy

• When to see a dermatologist about damaged nails

Why do nails split and break?

Split or broken nails are typically caused by nail stress, from work, sports or daily wear and tear. However, nails can also break due to weakness. Nails are made up of keratin, a protein that provides strength and hardness. Nail weakness and discoloration can be caused by a lack of keratin. Therefore, it is important to properly care for and nurture your nails. Other factors that can also damage your nails include illness, infections, nail picking, biting, aging, harsh manicures and repeated use of nail polish remover.

Tips to help keep your nails healthy

1) Keep your nails clean and hydrated: Proper nail hygiene is essential for healthy nails. Clean them regularly with a gentle nail brush and mild soap. Try your best to avoid using harsh chemicals or nail polish removers that contain acetone, as they can dry out your nails. Finally, apply a moisturizing nail and cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle.

2) Care for your cuticles: “Your cuticle is there to help keep your nail healthy, and trimming your cuticle can cause future nail damage and you may also risk infection as well,” says board-certified dermatologist and LovelySkin CEO Dr. Joel Schlessinger. “I actually don’t recommend going to nail salons for manicures and pedicures. If you do, I recommend taking your own equipment for the technician to use, and also insist that they not cut or manipulate the cuticle in any way.”

3) Protect your nails: Consider putting on gloves when doing household chores or any activities that may expose your nails to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture. This will help prevent damage and keep your nails strong.

4) Avoid excessive filing: While filing your nails is necessary to maintain their shape, avoid excessive filing as it can weaken them and cause them to split. “You also want to avoid any trauma to the nail with instruments that you put under the nail,” Dr. Schlessinger says. You can use a nail file in one direction to shape your nails or smooth snags and help prevent future damage.

5) Use a nail strengthener: Consider using a nail strengthener or hardener to help repair and strengthen your damaged nails. ISDIN Si-Nails Fast Absorbing & Hydrating Nail Serum Strengthener helps promote nail growth and has been clinically proven to strengthen brittle nails and improve their appearance by decreasing roughness and increasing thickness and density. Providing visible results in just 14 days, this nail strengthener uses cationic hyaluronic acid to provide cuticle moisturization.

6) Keep your nails short: If your nails are already damaged and prone to splitting, it's best to keep them short. Shorter nails are less likely to catch on objects and break further. Try to keep them trimmed to help prevent any future damage.

7) Avoid nail biting and picking: Picking at or biting your nails can worsen damage and lead to further splitting. If you're having trouble breaking these habits, try expert tips from the American Academy of Dermatology. Working on new, healthy habits can help keep your nails protected.

8) Follow a balanced diet: Your nail health is also influenced by your overall well-being. Make sure to maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins. Consider including foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains in your diet to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy nails. “I also recommend using Viviscal Professional Hair Growth Supplements,” Dr. Schlessinger says. “This product was created to improve hair strength, but it also does a great job improving the condition of nails when used consistently for several months.”

9) Be patient: Repairing damaged and split nails takes time and patience. It's important to consistently follow a nail care routine and allow your nails to grow and heal. Results may not be immediate, but with persistent care, you can achieve healthier nails over time.

When to see a dermatologist about damaged nails

If you have severe nail damage or persistent nail concerns, you can visit Dr. Schlessinger in the Omaha area or a board-certified dermatologist local to you for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, taking care of your nails is not only important for their appearance but also for your overall nail health. By following these tips and maintaining a regular nail care routine, you can help repair and improve their condition, and enjoy healthier and stronger nails.

Hair and nail health go hand in hand. Learn the truth about common hair loss myths with ISDIN on the LovelySkin Blog.