Why are your fingernails splitting?

Split fingernails, also called onychoschizia, can have various causes, including:

1. Dryness: Insufficient moisture can cause nails to become brittle and prone to splitting. This can be due to factors like frequent handwashing, exposure to harsh chemicals, aging, or certain medical conditions.

2. Lack of Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Deficiencies in nutrients such as biotin, folate, iron, or vitamin C can contribute to nail splitting.

3. Trauma or Injury: Direct trauma to the nails, such as hitting or stubbing fingers, can cause splitting or breakage. Repeated stress on the nails, like constant tapping or biting, can also make them split.

4. Fungal Infection: Fungal infections of the nails, known as onychomycosis, can cause the nails to thicken and become brittle, leading to splitting.

5. Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or lichen planus can affect the nail matrix and lead to splitting nails.

6. Medical Conditions: Splitting fingernails can sometimes be associated with underlying health problems such as thyroid issues, connective tissue disorders, or autoimmune diseases.

7. Medications: Some medications, including chemotherapy drugs and retinoids, can have side effects that include nail splitting.

8. Aging: As people age, their nails may become more prone to splitting due to reduced moisture production and natural changes in nail structure.

9. Chemical Exposure: Prolonged contact with harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents or solvents, can weaken nails and make them more prone to splitting.

10. Improper Nail Care: Using harsh nail polishes, removers, or artificial nails without proper care can damage the nails and lead to splitting.

11. Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to splitting nails.

12. Psoriasis: Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, can affect the nail matrix leading to splitting of nails.

If nail splitting persists or is severe, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can identify the underlying cause and provide specific recommendations to address the issue and promote healthy nail growth.