What should you know about brittle feet nails?

Toenails may become thin, rough, layered, cracked or easy to break. Tight shoes, repeated rubbing, long periods in damp footwear and nail trauma can weaken the nail plate. A fungal nail infection can also make a nail thickened, discoloured, crumbly or separated from the skin beneath it; the condition presents with nail changes, but brittle nails alone do not identify the cause. Skin conditions such as psoriasis may create pits, ridges or lifting. Changes affecting several nails can be worth discussing with a clinician, especially when they persist despite reducing friction.

Keep feet clean and dry, change damp socks, and choose footwear with enough room for the toes. Trim nails straight across with clean clippers and smooth sharp edges rather than cutting deeply into the corners. Avoid peeling layers, digging under the nail or covering a damaged nail with artificial products. Moisturiser on the surrounding skin can help with dryness, but do not share clippers or files. If the nail is thick, crumbly or changing colour, arrange an examination before using a treatment so the cause can be confirmed. Read more about Nail Fungus if those features are present.

Arrange medical advice for persistent or spreading nail changes, repeated nail separation, pain, swelling, drainage, bleeding or redness around the nail. Seek prompt care if redness spreads, pain becomes severe, or you develop fever. A clinician may inspect the nail and nearby skin, review footwear and injury history, and decide whether testing is needed.

Ask: Could the shape and colour change fit an infection or skin condition? Should the nail be tested before treatment? Could footwear, an old injury or a medicine be contributing? What trimming and moisturising routine is suitable for this nail?