Brittle nails are a common problem: nails split, tear at the sides or peel in layers. The good news is that the right care and a few changes in your habits can make a real difference. In this article you'll learn how brittle nails develop, how to recognise them and which measures make your nails stronger and more resilient again.

Causes of brittle nails

Usually several factors come together. The most common causes are:

• Loss of moisture: Frequent hand washing, hot water, harsh cleaning products and disinfectants strip moisture and lipids from the nail – it becomes brittle.
• Constant switching between wet and dry: The nail swells in water and contracts again as it dries. Over time this weakens the nail layers.
• Frequent polish removal with acetone: It's not so much the polish itself but frequent removal with strongly degreasing solvents that dries nails out.
• Incorrect filing and improper removal of enhancements: Coarse files, sawing back and forth or peeling off gel and shellac weaken the nail plate.
• Diet: An unbalanced diet low in iron, zinc, biotin and protein can affect nail quality.
• Health reasons: Thyroid disorders, iron deficiency or hormonal changes may also be behind it.
• Genetics and age: Some people naturally have thinner nails, and nails often become drier with age.

How to recognise brittle nails

Brittle nails are usually easy to spot. Typical signs include:

• Thin, soft structure: The nails bend easily and feel delicate.
• Splitting and tearing: They break or tear at the sides under the slightest pressure.
• Peeling in layers: The free edge splits apart.
• Uneven surface: Vertical ridges or an irregular texture are common.

If your nails suddenly change a lot, become discoloured or the nail lifts from the nail bed, have it checked by a doctor.

Everyday care and protection

The most important measure against brittle nails is consistent moisture and lipid care:

• Nail oil every day: Massage a nail oil into your nails and cuticles once or twice a day, ideally in the evening. A roller such as the BNC Nail Care Oil Roller Cherry is handy on the go; for home or the salon there's the large pipette bottle BNC Scented Nail Oil Almond Clear 75 ml.
• Hand cream after every hand wash: A rich cream such as the BNC Hand Cream Velvet – Rose Gold with shea butter and vitamin E protects your skin and the area around the nail from drying out. Massage the cream over your nails as well.
• Wear gloves: When cleaning, washing up or gardening, gloves protect against water and chemicals.
• Don't use your nails as tools: Open cans, stickers and lids with a tool instead.

The right nail care routine

1. File gently: Always file in one direction and use a fine grit for natural nails, for example the BNC Half-Moon Buffer File “Flower Design” 180/240. Avoid metal files and coarse grits if your nails are brittle. Find out more in our guide Which nail file is right for me?
2. Keep nails on the shorter side: Short, rounded nails have less leverage and break less often.
3. Care for cuticles instead of cutting them: Soften the cuticles with oil and push them back gently.
4. Plan acetone-free breaks: Give your nails a rest from frequent polish removal now and then.

Nutrition: what your nails need

Nails grow slowly, so dietary changes only show after a few weeks. Aim for a balanced diet with:

• Protein (e.g. pulses, dairy, eggs, fish)
• Iron and zinc (e.g. oats, nuts, wholegrain products)
• Biotin (e.g. eggs, nuts, oats)
• Enough fluids spread throughout the day

Only take supplements after talking to your doctor – especially if a deficiency is suspected.

Home remedies: what makes sense

• Warm oil soak: A few minutes in warm olive or almond oil makes nails and cuticles more supple.
• Coconut oil: Like olive oil, coconut oil supplies nails and cuticles with lipids.
• Be careful with lemon juice: It's often recommended to brighten nails. However, the acid can further irritate and dry out sensitive nails and torn cuticles – better avoid it if your nails are brittle.

When to see a doctor

If your nails stay brittle for months despite good care, become discoloured or thickened, or you notice other symptoms such as fatigue or hair loss, have the cause checked by a doctor. Brittle nails can be linked to iron deficiency or a thyroid disorder, for example.

You'll find more care tips in our articles Common nail care mistakes and Nail care in winter.

FAQ: Brittle nails

How long does it take for brittle nails to get stronger?

A fingernail takes about four to six months to grow out completely. You'll often notice first improvements from good care after a few weeks, but a fully healthy nail takes patience.

Are gel nails bad for brittle nails?

Not in principle. The main problems are filing too aggressively and peeling off the enhancement. Applied and removed properly, a thin layer of gel can even protect the natural nail.

Which nail oil is the right one?

Regular use matters more than the type. Choose a scent you like – then you'll actually use the oil every day.

Does drinking lots of water help?

Drinking enough is important for your whole body. But what really helps brittle nails is external care: oil, cream and protection from constant contact with water.