Dry and brittle toenails are a common concern, characterized by dullness, cracking, or splitting. While often benign, they can indicate underlying health factors.
Everyday Factors
Dry climates dehydrate nails, making them prone to breakage. Harsh chemicals in cleaning products or acetone-based polish removers strip natural oils, leading to dryness.
Prolonged water exposure weakens nail structure by causing repeated expansion and contraction. Ill-fitting shoes can pressure nails, leading to trauma and brittleness.
Deficiencies in biotin (vitamin B7), iron, and zinc can cause brittle nails. Biotin supports keratin production, iron aids oxygen transport to nail cells, and zinc plays a role in cell growth and repair.
As individuals age, toenails become thicker, slower-growing, and more prone to dryness and brittleness. This is due to decreased moisture and changes in nail plate composition, increasing susceptibility to damage.
Health Conditions
Fungal infections (onychomycosis) frequently cause dry, brittle toenails. They often begin as a white or yellow spot under the nail, causing thickening, discoloration, and a crumbly texture. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, degrading the nail plate.
Thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism, affect nail health. Insufficient thyroid hormones slow metabolic processes, leading to dry skin, hair, and brittle, slow-growing nails. This systemic effect increases susceptibility to breaking.
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition, can impact nails. Psoriatic nails may show pitting, discoloration, thickening, and separation from the nail bed, resulting in a dry, crumbly texture. The associated inflammatory process disrupts normal nail growth.
Anemia, often due to iron deficiency, can lead to brittle nails. Iron is essential for hemoglobin production, which carries oxygen to tissues, including the nail matrix. Insufficient oxygen impairs nail growth, potentially causing koilonychia (spoon-shaped nails) or brittleness.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can also cause nail changes. Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. Poor circulation deprives toenails of nutrients and oxygen, resulting in slow growth, thickening, and increased fragility.
When to See a Doctor
Seek professional medical advice if dry, brittle toenail symptoms persist despite home care. A doctor’s evaluation is important if toenails show significant discoloration (e.g., dark streaks) or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus). Pain, especially if it interferes with daily activities or walking, warrants medical attention.
A healthcare provider can diagnose the underlying cause of brittle toenails, differentiating between common and more serious conditions. They can recommend appropriate treatment plans. Addressing underlying health issues early can prevent complications and improve overall nail health.
Promoting Toenail Health
Proper nail care is fundamental. Regularly trimming nails straight across and gently filing edges prevents breakage and snagging. Moisturizing toenails and cuticles daily with a rich cream or oil hydrates the nail plate, reducing dryness and increasing flexibility.
Protecting toenails from harsh elements and chemicals is beneficial. Avoid prolonged exposure to water and chemicals. Opting for acetone-free nail polish removers prevents excessive drying.
Choosing appropriate footwear is important. Well-fitting shoes with ample toe room prevent nail trauma. Breathable materials reduce moisture buildup, which can contribute to fungal growth.
A balanced diet contributes to nail strength. Adequate hydration supports nail moisture content. Include foods rich in biotin, iron, and zinc for robust nail growth.