Nail Help!

Updated on September 25, 2009
S.A. asks from Lufkin, TX
14 answers

I've been having lots of problems with my nails breaking. They grow extremely fast, but when they get a certain length, they are splitting on the sides. This all started when I was pregnant with my little girl, but I didn't worry much about it. I was taking a very good pre-natal vitamin, but I noticed no significant difference in the appearance or health of my nails. My cuticles are even looking rough, and the skin around my nail/cuticles sometimes peals away very easily. Any of you ladies have/had this problem? What did you do, or what did you take to make your nails healthy? My job is professional, and I need to maintain a neat/clean appearance (people notice when you have crazy nails)! Thanks to all who respond...I appreciate your information!!!

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So What Happened?

Thanks to everyone for the wonderful advise on my nail problem. I researched some of the products mentioned this weekend, and they all sound pretty good. I've decided to try the vitamin E oil for now, as I remember using this in my teen years and it worked very nicely (my grandmother highly recommended this, too!). I have started taking a vitamin (as directed by my OBGYN), and that should help, as well. Much appreciation to all of you terrific ladies that took the time to respond.

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D.C.

answers from Dallas on

Hoof maker (its to keep horses/cows hooves from breaking. Also LUSH in Northpark has a cream called Lemony Butter I think. Its excellent on nails.

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J.G.

answers from Dallas on

Hi, My name is J. and I sell Avon for the past 5 years. You may want to try some sort of moisterizer for your nails and cuticles. Also a fortifier would help too. Avon sells also a lavender oil to put on your cuticles that is about 5.99 and has worked wonders on my nails. I also put some on every morning and apply this almost all winter long especially when it's really dry here in Texas. my website if you would like to try it. www.youravon.com/jennifermunoz and avon is 100% satisfaction so if you don't like it, you can send it back or replace. My number is ###-###-#### if I can help anymore.

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C.E.

answers from Dallas on

I had no luck with the Sally Hanson. The best thing I have found is Nail-Tek. They have several varieties and I think the one I use is called Hydration Therapy. It's supposed to provide moisture and protection for dryed out and splitting nails. You have to apply it consistently every day for 7 days, then remove and start again. I found it at Beauty Brands.

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C.H.

answers from Dallas on

S.,
If more moisture does not solve the problem, you should consider seeking the advice of a Dermatologist. There can be an underlying medical problem for your nails to split.
C.

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B.B.

answers from Dallas on

My nails get like that when my skin is really dry (like they are getting now). Use lotions through out the day (I really like Curel brand...it seems to last longer and I don't have to use as much). Also, a good cuticle cream should help.

1 mom found this helpful
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D.H.

answers from Dallas on

Hi, I do nails and was wondering how you file your nails? If you round them off too much, they will be more apt to split on the sides. You need to have a little bit of straight edge growing from the sidewall of your nails. You can round them but leave just a touch of straight edge. You probably do need moisture and might consider a manicure to see how to file and what products would work for you. I work in Allen at Creations By Sher. I'd love to help! Contact me if you're interested.

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D.F.

answers from Dallas on

I have the same problem - my nails are too strong and break after a certain length. Sally Hansen makes a Vitamin E oil with a brush applicator (just like nail polish) - works wonders - It also softens and mosturizes your cuticles and the best part - economic and you can find it anywhere!!!!! Use it nightly and you will see a major difference!

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M.T.

answers from Dallas on

NAILTIQUES they have 3 formulas to choose from -IT WILL CHANGE YOUR NAIL LIFE - it is a clear protein polish that dries in about 30 seconds - apply once a day.
! they sell it @ wallgreens, bed bath and beyond, beauty store. . .

1 mom found this helpful

S.M.

answers from Dallas on

Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme, it comes in a small round tin you can get it at Target (and several other stores too) it's about $8, I think, keep it in your purse and just rub a little on after your hands get wet or a few times a day. It is the best for dry brittle nails! you will notice the difference by the next day... they will still grow at the same rate but you will see the problem clear up very quickly, and stay at bay with continued use.

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C.C.

answers from Dallas on

Take plain gelatin capsules - I took 2 capsules 3 times/day. I also used the clear 'hard-as-nails' polish. It's the only combination I found that worked consistently.

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G.S.

answers from Dallas on

Hi S..
I have been using some natural nutritional products that have helped my nails to not be brittle and break. If you would like more information, please give me a call. ###-###-####. Thanks! G.
I know otheres that have had positive results as well.

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B.S.

answers from Dallas on

Had a similar problem several years ago. Was advised by my OBGYN to see a dermotalagist. Diagnosis- fungus infection. Water was my enemy. Rx--cortisone cream and using rubber gloves as much as possible. Had had several RX's for antibiotics, but problem aways returned.Took a while for relief, but was worth the effort. Condition gets worse. Understand the professional problem. At times I would wear bandaids on my fingers--I was so embarrassed.
Mother of two,grandmother of four and a proffessional that has "been there'

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M.M.

answers from Dallas on

I used to have the same problem, lotion and cuticle creams don't help very well or long term. You need to take care of it from the inside. I take fish oil and vitamin A (take vitamin A every 3-4 days, not healthy to take too much) and a good multi-vitamin. It will take 3-4 weeks before you see full improvement but they will help tremendously. I have healthy, white, very strong nails.

1 mom found this helpful
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B.P.

answers from Abilene on

It sounds like you need more moisture. Using lotiong every time you wash your hands, and as you think of it throughout the day will make a difference.

Also, I love the Nail Tek products, and have seen fantastic results in others as well. They are very affordable and you can find them at Sally's and in some "better" salons.

Good Luck!

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