Fingernails break and split when they are dry and brittle. Chemicals in some nail polishes can attack the protective layer of the fingernails and make them brittle. Broken fingernails need to be well moisturised so that they can heal and be protected from further damage.

 

The splintered ends of the broken nail should be removed with nail scissors and smoothed with a nail file. Apply a moisturiser to the fingernails that contains proteins such as keratin or collagen. Vegetable oil also works well as a moisturiser. Rub the oil or cream onto the surface and edge of the nail with a cotton swab.

First apply a layer of cream, let it absorb and then apply a second layer. The nails can be protected from further damage by plasters or special nail bandages until they have healed.

 

Too little fluid intake contributes to dehydration of the fingernails, so it is important to drink enough water.