Finger Nails Problems and Remedies

The main function of the finger nails is to protect the sensitive tips of the fingers and concentrate the sense of touch. On average, a nail grows from its base to its top edge in about six months. If nails are not cut they will become split and broken.

Different Types of Nails :

Flaking nails :

The top layers of nails can separate and start to flake off if they are exposed to too much soap and water or detergent. If flaking occurs, wear plastic gloves when washing dishes or clothes, and massage nail cream into the nail base each day.

Brittle nails :

When nails easily crack or break they can be a permanent worry. Weak nails are caused by general ill health or a protein deficiency in the diet. You can increase your nutritional intake by eating more lean meat, fish, fresh fruit and vegetables.

Brittle nails could also be suffering from extreme dryness and, if this is the case, rub in a nail cream every morning and night and keep the nails fairly short until the condition improves.

Loose nails :

The excessive use of nail hardeners containing formaldehyde can cause the nail plate to separate from the nail bed. The space beneath the nail may then become infected, causing discoloration. Loose nails can also accompany diseases such as eczema and psoriasis.

Hang nails :

If the nails are frequently immersed in water the outer skin layer may split away from the cuticle. The splits, or hang nails, are painful and can become infected. They can be snipped off with sharp nail scissors. To prevent them occurring the skin should be kept flexible by nightly applications of cold creams.

Black nails :

A heavy blow on the nail or jamming it in a door can cause bleeding under the nail, which eventually fall off. New growth will cure the condition. If the injury is very painful the nail may have to be removed surgically.

Note on Nail Biting

In both adults and children, nail biting is a common habit, sometimes stemming from insecurity, boredom, anxiety or excitement. Excessive nail biting results in very weak nails and in extreme cases, damaged fingers caused by chewing the nail down to the quick-the sensitive skin beneath the nail.
The best remedy is often to appeal to the individual’s vanity. Failing this, the person concerned must use willpower to conquer the habit.