The Best Nail Strengthener for Peeling Nails

Looking for the best nail strengthener for peeling nails? We have just the list for you! 

About 20 percent of the population has brittle nails, characterized by nails that split or peel into layers, according to a June 2018 review article in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment.” While peeling nails is usually not a sign of a major medical issue, it might indicate that your manicures are doing more to work against you than for you. Peeling nails are like split ends. As much as you know you shouldn’t pick at them – it’s hard not to. And just like split ends, they can be frustratingly resistant to anything you try and do to bust them.

Millions of people throughout the world suffer from peeling nails, a condition causing the different layers of the fingernails to peel or flake off. The sharp, biting pain that can occur when the layers of the fingernail plate dry out and separate casts a burden on multitudes of otherwise healthy, hygienic individuals. Nails are made from keratin, a protein that’s also found in your hair. Nails have multiple tough layers that can peel. This can cause them to appear thin or become weakened, causing them to split. The medical term for peeling or splitting fingernails is onychoschizia. While the causes of peeling fingernails can range from health concerns and genetics to lifestyle habits and fingernail exposure to trauma, the resulting impact of this form of nail dystrophy is often the same. 

If your fingernails are peeling but your toenails aren’t (or vice versa), this signals an external cause. If both your fingernails and toenails are peeling, this signals an internal cause. Internal causes can vary, but sometimes dry, peeling nails can indicate a vitamin deficiency, typically an iron deficiency. This list of the best nail strengthener for peeling nails are for those caused my external damage. For those with internal nail issues check out 5 tips on nails and vitamin deficiencies.

Peeling Nails Treatment & Prevention

Best Nail Strengthener for Peeling Nails

Nailtiques Strengthening Polish ($25 on Amazon)

Protein intake is important for many reasons, notably when it comes to nails. They are made of structural proteins known as keratin, so adequate dietary protein is important for providing the building blocks for strengthening nails. Natiltiques formula is made with a special protein that quickly acts to help strengthen peeling nails.

OPI Nail Envy – Soft & Thin ($18 on Amazon)

Calcium makes bones, teeth, nails, and hair strong. If our body lacks calcium it will result to peeling nails. Calcium works well with vitamin D. Vitamin D helps in proper and easier absorption of calcium. A peeling nail is one indication that you lack calcium in your body. Their strengthening formula fortifies soft, thin nails with extra calcium.

Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream ($8 on Amazon)

If your nails are prone to peeling, it could mean they need moisture. Moisturizers are great for nails, as it targets the cuticles to promote healthy growth and strength. Also, nails will retain the moisture, which decreases the chances of them peeling again. This strengthening cream uses a moisture rich formulation of vitamins, minerals and emollients to restore the natural moisture balance to dry, peeling nails.

Bee Natural Best Cuticle Oil ($18 on Amazon)

Certain oils are great for strengthening your nails – particularly olive oil, vitamin E oil and tea tree oil. Olive oil is extremely moisturizing and easily absorbed into the skin and nails. Lavender and castor oils can strengthen weak, peeling nails when applied daily. These oils restore moisture to reduce peeling and thinning. Their special formulation is designed to both heal issues like peeling nails and to protect your nails and cuticles.

duri Rejuvacote 1 Nail Growth System ($14 on Amazon)

Nails are made mainly of the hardened protein keratin, which means they require a lot of minerals to keep them strong and to stop peeling. While protein is necessary for nail growth and strength, calcium keeps nails from weakening, and iron keeps nails from distorting into spoon shapes. This nail growth system is enriched with hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, keratin, calcium to stimulate healthy nail growth

As mentioned earlier, peeling nails, a change in the appearance, texture or shape of your nails could indicate nutrient deficiencies. There are a few important vitamins and nutrients you should regularly consume to keep your stop your nails from peeling.

  • Biotin – While Biotin deficiency is rare, but consuming biotin through foods or supplements may help strengthen brittle nails and improve their growth.

  • B12 – Vitamin B12 and folate play a role in red blood cell production and oxygen transportation to nail cells. Inadequacies can result in peeling and discoloration.

  • Iron – Iron is needed to provide your cells with adequate oxygen, which, in turn, is necessary for healthy nails. If you have an iron deficiency, the shape and appearance of your nails can be affected.

  • Protein – Adequate protein intake is needed to produce keratin, which is responsible for keeping your nails strong and resilient.

  • Omega 3 – To prevent dry and peeling nails, consume adequate omega-3 fatty acids. They help lubricate your nails, giving them a shiny appearance.

  • Vitamin C – Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which helps provide strength and integrity to your nails.

Consuming a variety of vitamins, minerals and nutrients through food is the best way to improve and maintain nail health. Under certain circumstances, taking a supplement may be beneficial too! And if you’re struggling with nail biting check out this DIY manicure for nail biters that is sure to help improve your overall nail health.