Brittle and peeling nails can be frustrating to deal with for anyone. They can make even the most simple tasks like typing or buttoning a shirt uncomfortable and painful.

While there may be several factors that contribute to peeling nails, such as aging, nutrient deficiencies, or exposure to harsh chemicals, there are some easy home remedies that can help stop the problem from getting worse and in some cases, even reverse the damage.

Hydration

Dehydration is one of the leading causes of brittle nails. Ensuring you are drinking enough water each day – at least 8 to 10 glasses – can go a long way in keeping your nails hydrated and healthy.

You can also add some lemon or cucumber slices to your water to give it a refreshing twist. These fruits have vitamins and minerals that can strengthen your nails and promote their growth.

Protein

Protein helps to strengthen nails, so if you’re not consuming enough of this macronutrient in your diet, you may suffer from brittle or peeling nails.

To fix the issue, incorporate more protein-rich foods into your diet, such as lean meats, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Also, make sure you’re consuming adequate amounts of keratin, which is a protein found in nails, hair and skin. You can find it in eggs, garlic, onions, red bell peppers, and salmon.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is famous for its powerful antioxidant properties. It helps protect nails from damage, stimulates blood circulation to the nail bed, and improves overall nail health. You can apply vitamin E oil directly onto your nails and massage gently.

Make sure to do it regularly to promote the growth of healthier nails. You can also eat nuts, spinach, avocado, and salmon, which are rich in vitamin E.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains fatty acids that can help moisturize the nail bed and prevent splitting and cracking. Use extra virgin coconut oil as it is less processed and retains more of its beneficial properties.

You can massage the oil onto your nails a few times a week and leave it on for at least 20 minutes to allow it to penetrate the nail bed. Rinse with warm water and apply a moisturizer to seal in the moisture.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is essential for promoting hair, skin, and nail health. If you’re not consuming enough biotin in your diet, it can lead to brittle, weak nails.

You can get biotin from foods such as eggs, almonds, whole grains, cauliflower, and mushrooms. Biotin supplements are also available, but it’s always best to consult with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet to ensure it’s right for you.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is another excellent remedy for treating peeling nails. It contains vitamin E, which helps moisturize the nail bed, while the fatty acids in the oil lock in the moisture, preventing further damage.

You can add a few drops of lavender oil to the olive oil to benefit from its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. First, heat some olive oil and let it cool down until it reaches a comfortable temperature. Soak your fingertips in the oil for about 15 minutes and then rinse them off with warm water.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is effective in treating a number of ailments, including peeling nails. It contains acetic acid, which helps strengthen the nails, while its antifungal properties help combat nail infections.

You can mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl and soak your nails in the mixture for about 10 minutes every day. Alternatively, you can use a cotton ball to apply the mixture directly to your nails.

Lemon Juice

The citric acid in lemon juice can help to whiten and strengthen nails. Mix an equal amount of lemon juice and olive oil in a bowl and soak your nails in the mixture for about 10 minutes.

You can also apply the mixture to your nails using a cotton ball and allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Garlic

Garlic contains compounds that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent home remedy for peeling nails. Crush some garlic cloves and add them to a bowl of warm water.

Soak your fingers in the mixture for about 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse your nails with warm water. Doing this once a week can help improve the overall strength and health of your nails.

Conclusion

Peeling and brittle nails may seem like a minor issue, but it can be quite discomforting and can cause even more significant problems if left untreated.

Most of the home remedies mentioned above are easy to find and inexpensive, making it easier for anyone to try them out. You don’t have to suffer in silence as there are many solutions available that can help improve the health of your nails. With a little effort and persistence, you can have healthy, strong nails that look great.