Causes of Dry Skin and Brittle Nails

Cold or dry air, long hot showers, frequent handwashing, harsh cleansers, and household products can strip the skin barrier. Nails may split or peel after repeated wetting and drying, picking, biting, manicures, or contact with solvents. Eczema and psoriasis can affect both skin and nails. Thyroid problems, iron deficiency, and other nutritional or medical issues are possible, particularly when changes are widespread or persistent. A fungal nail infection can cause thickening, discolouration, crumbling, or separation rather than simple dryness; see Nail Fungus for related information.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser after washing and a thicker ointment on very dry areas at night. Keep showers warm rather than hot, choose a gentle cleanser, and wear gloves for cleaning. File rough nail edges in one direction, avoid cutting cuticles, and pause harsh nail products while the nail grows out. A clinician can examine the skin and nails and decide whether blood tests or a nail sample is appropriate.

Arrange medical care if cracks bleed, become painful, ooze, or fail to improve with gentle care. Seek assessment for sudden widespread dryness, marked fatigue, swelling, unexplained weight change, or nails that change colour or detach. Painful redness around a nail or a dark streak that is new also deserves prompt review.

Could a medicine, eczema, psoriasis, thyroid problem, iron deficiency, or fungal infection explain these changes? Should any tests or a nail sample be considered? Which moisturiser and nail-care routine suit my skin?