Q: I always had beautiful, strong nails.  Now they split and crack so easily. What do you think the cause is? And what can I do about it?

A: Brittle nails presenting with splitting and cracking is a common complaint, especially among “mature” women.  As we grow older, the growth rate of the nails slows down, exposing the nail to longer periods of time to experience trauma and damage. Brittle nails may also be seen in iron deficiency anemia and hypothyroidism.

However, the most common causes of brittle nails are environmental factors such as frequent hand washing, work or hobbies with exposure to caustic chemicals, and nail practices and cosmetics such as nail acrylics and wraps and nail polish removers. 

Now for some useful tips to help prevent the dryness and subsequent splitting and breakage.        
1. Apply moisturizing cream, especially with lactic or glycolic acid.
2. Trim nails after bathing when nails are soft and supple.  And then file rough edges. 

3. Wear gloves when doing household chores and gardening.
4. Eat a well-balanced diet.  Consider a biotin vitamin supplement such as Appearax.  Biotin may increase the growth and decrease the brittleness of nails. 
5. After endlessly trying multiple nail strengtheners and hardeners, the one I personally recommend is Rejuvacote by Duri Cosmetics.
6. And finally a plus: Nails grow more rapidly during the summer! 

Dr. Lenora Felderman practices adult and pediatric medical and cosmetic dermatology in Manhattan. She is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University's Weill College of Medicine. She is an attending physician at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center and Lenox Hill Hospital. Dr. Felderman has been honored with a number of awards including New York Magazine's 2006 and 2007 “Best Doctor.” Dr.  Felderman is a dermatologic consultant for major print media and has been a pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry consultant and spokesperson. Her latest project is the development of her own skin care line. Send your questions to Lenora@smartnow.com.