By Diva Dressing 
Common nail problems like brittle nails, fungal infections, yellowing, hangnails, and ingrown nails can be frustrating but are often manageable with proper care. Moisturizing regularly, using protective gloves, applying antifungal treatments, and trimming nails carefully can help resolve many issues. White spots, ridges, and nail splitting often signal minor injuries or nutritional deficiencies, which can be addressed by improving nail care routines and a balanced diet. If problems persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for more targeted treatment.
Brittle Nails
Brittle nails break or peel easily, often due to dryness or overexposure to water and chemicals.
Solutions:
Moisturize: Use a hand cream or cuticle oil regularly to keep nails hydrated
Protect: Wear gloves while washing dishes or using cleaning products.
Strengthen: Apply a strengthening nail polish or treatment designed to fortify weak nails.
Nail Fungus
Nail fungus causes nails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. It can be due to infections from fungi.
Solutions:
Antifungal Treatments: Use over-the-counter antifungal nail creams or oral medications prescribed by a doctor.
Keep Nails Dry: Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture and ensure feet are dry before putting on socks and shoes.
Maintain Hygiene: Keep nails clean and trimmed and avoid sharing nail tools.
Yellow Nails
Yellowing of the nails can be caused by smoking, nail polish use, or underlying health issues.
Solutions:
Use Base Coats: Apply a base coat before nail polish to prevent staining.
Avoid Smoking: Reduce or eliminate smoking to prevent discoloration.
Treat Underlying Issues: If yellowing persists, consult a healthcare provider to rule out potential health problems.
Hangnails
Hangnails are small, torn pieces of skin around the nail, often caused by dryness or biting.
Solutions:
Moisturize: Apply cuticle oil to keep the area hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Avoid Biting: Refrain from biting or pulling at hangnails, as this can lead to infection.
Trim Carefully: Use clean nail scissors or clippers to trim hangnails gently.
Ingrown Nails
Ingrown nails occur when the edges of the nail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation.
Solutions:
Soak Feet: Soak your feet in warm, soapy water to soften the nail and skin.
Use Cotton: Place a small piece of cotton under the nail edge to help it grow above the skin.
Seek Professional Help: If pain persists, consult a podiatrist or dermatologist for treatment options.
White Spots on Nails
White spots or patches on the nails can be caused by minor injuries or fungal infections.
Solutions:
Monitor: White spots often grow out with the nail and are not usually a cause for concern.
Avoid Trauma: Protect nails from injury by being careful with activities that could cause damage.
Consult a Doctor: If white spots are persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.
Ridges and Grooves
Vertical ridges or horizontal grooves can appear due to aging, trauma, or nutritional deficiencies.
Solutions:
Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re getting essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals.
Hydrate: Keep nails moisturized to prevent dryness and ridges.
Consult a Specialist: If ridges or grooves are severe or persistent, consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
Splitting Nails
Nails that split or flake often are weak and prone to breaking.
Solutions:
Nail Hardener: Use a nail hardener or strengthening treatment to improve nail resilience.
Avoid Excessive Water: Limit prolonged exposure to water and harsh chemicals.
Trim Regularly: Keep nails trimmed to reduce the risk of splitting.
