Strong and healthy nails are a sign of good overall health, but sometimes despite our best efforts, our nails may still break. Here are ten possible reasons your nails may be breaking, and what you can do about it.

1. Nutrient Deficiencies

A lack of vitamins and minerals can leave your nails weak and brittle and more prone to breaking.

If you’re not getting enough iron, vitamins A, C, D, and E, biotin, or protein, you may want to consider taking a supplement or tweaking your diet to include more nail-strengthening foods like spinach, almonds, or salmon.

2. Dehydration

Just like your skin needs to be hydrated to look its best, so do your nails. If you’re not drinking enough water, or if your hands are frequently exposed to water, your nails may become dry and brittle, making them more likely to break.

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day, and moisturize your nails and cuticles regularly.

3. Exposure to Chemicals

If your job or hobbies involve you constantly working with your hands, chances are you’re exposing your nails to chemicals that can weaken them. Cleaning products, nail polish remover, and even dish soap can all wreak havoc on your nails.

Consider wearing gloves when you’re cleaning or doing any other activities that could expose your nails to chemicals.

4. Fungal Infections

Fungal infections like ringworm can cause your nails to become weak, discolored, and more prone to breaking. If you suspect you have a fungal infection, seek treatment from your doctor as soon as possible.

Keeping your nails clean and dry can also help prevent fungal infections from taking hold.

5. Genetics

Unfortunately, genetics play a role in the strength and structure of your nails.

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If you have a family history of weak nails, you may simply need to be extra careful with your nail care routine, using products specifically designed to strengthen and protect your nails.

6. Aging

As you age, your nails may become more brittle and prone to breaking. Hormonal changes, medications, and other age-related factors can all contribute to weakening nails.

Keep them moisturized and nourished, and talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about any underlying health issues that could be affecting your nail health.

7. Biting or Picking at Your Nails

Nail-biting, picking, or tearing at your nails can all cause damage to the nail plate, making your nails more prone to breaking.

If you struggle with this habit, try wearing gloves, painting your nails with a bitter-tasting polish, or finding other ways to keep your hands busy.

8. Using Harsh Nail Products

Using nail polish or other nail products that contain harsh chemicals can dry out your nails and make them more likely to break. Look for gentler nail polishes and removers that are free from formaldehyde, toluene, and other harmful ingredients.

9. Trauma

Accidents happen, and sometimes they happen to your nails. Trauma to your nails, whether from an injury, slamming your fingers in a door, or even just wearing shoes that are too tight, can weaken the nails and cause them to break.

Treat your nails gently, and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on them.

10. Medical Conditions

In some cases, medical conditions like thyroid disease, psoriasis, or eczema can cause your nails to weaken and break.

Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to nail breakage, or if you’re concerned that an underlying health condition could be affecting your nail health.