Brittle nails are soft and thin and can split or break easily. It can cause discomfort and embarrassment. There are many health problems that can cause brittle nails.
It can be treated with changes to lifestyle habits and proper nail care. Some people turn to natural therapies to help strengthen their nails.
Natural Therapies
Not Enough Data to Assess
- Biotin A1, A2, A4
- Specific bioactive collagen peptides A3
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Herbs and Supplements to Be Used With Caution
Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.
References
Herbs and Supplements
REFA1 Floersheim GL. [Treatment of brittle fingernails with biotin]. Z Hautkr. 1989;64(1):41-48.
REFA2 Lipner SR, Scher RK. Biotin for the treatment of nail disease: what is the evidence? J Dermatolog Treat. 2018 Jun;29(4):411-414.
REFA3 Hexsel D, Zague V, et al. Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017 Dec;16(4):520-526.
REFA4 Scheinfeld N, Dahdah MJ, et al. Vitamins and minerals: their role in nail health and disease. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007 Aug;6(8):782 7.
Other Therapies
REFB1 Cashman MW, Sloan SB. Nutrition and nail disease. Clin Dermatol. 2010 Jul-Aug;28(4):420-425.