What should you know about brittle flaking nails causes?

Flaking at the free edge is often linked with repeated wetting and drying, detergent exposure, aggressive buffing or removing polish, and small knocks. Picking at a loose layer can extend the split farther across the nail. Fungal nail infection can present with crumbling, thickening or colour change, while psoriasis may cause pits, ridges or lifting. If the nails are also painful, inflamed or changing near the base, the cause may need closer examination. The appearance alone cannot confirm which explanation applies.

Keep nails short enough to avoid catching, and smooth rough edges carefully with a clean file. Use gloves for cleaning and prolonged contact with water, dry under the nails after washing, and apply moisturiser to hands and nail edges. Avoid peeling, scraping, hard buffing, glue and extensions until the surface is stronger. Do not share nail tools. Thick, crumbly or yellowing nails warrant an examination; Nail Fungus is one possible cause, but treatment should match the diagnosis.

Arrange care when flaking lasts despite reducing exposure, spreads to other nails, or occurs with lifting, colour change, pain or swelling. Seek prompt assessment for a new dark streak, bleeding, a changing mark or pigment beyond the nail. Fever, severe pain or rapidly spreading redness needs urgent attention.

Ask: Is the flaking from surface damage or a nail disorder? Do I need testing for infection? Could my work, products or manicure technique be contributing? What should I use to protect the nail edge?