Patients who have trouble with brittle splitting nails should consult a dermatologist about the best way to treat the condition. Brittle splitting nails are often treated by applying lotions that contain alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin. These substances can be applied to nails both before and after wetting the hands. Agents with urea or lactic acid are also effective at treating dryness. Taking a multivitamin with iron, zinc and biotin may increase the strength of nails. Olive oil is also an inexpensive treatment.

In addition, people can take other steps to prevent their nails from become brittle. It is best to avoid allowing the nails to repeatedly become wet and dry. Cotton-lined rubber gloves can protect the nails by keeping them dry during household chores, such as dishwashing. The gloves will also protect the nails from exposure to harsh cleaning products. People with an occupation that involves frequent wetting and drying of the nails (e.g., dishwasher, hairdresser) may benefit from wearing gloves at the workplace.

Soft nails often indicate that too much moisture is present, or the nails have been damaged by detergents, cleaning fluids, nail polish removers and other chemicals. An application of a clear nail prep or nail polish with nylon fibers (known as fibered nail hardeners) may help strengthen the nails. Nail hardeners the contain toluene sulfonamide or formaldehyde should be avoided, as these can irritate the skin.

Low-grade nail polish products should not be used, as they can cause extreme drying and brittleness. Nail polish remover that contains the ingredient acetone is especially likely to dry out nails. It is better to choose a nonacetone nail polish remover. In addition, nail polish remover should be used no more than once a week to prevent excessive drying.

Proper care of nails can help them from becoming too brittle. Nails should be shaped and filed with a very fine nail file, and the tips should be rounded gently. Nail irregularities that are filed promptly can help prevent breakage or splitting. Buff nails in the same direction as the nail grows – buffing “back and forth” can promote nail splitting. Do not use metal tools on the nail surface to push back the cuticle, as this can remove protective cells from the nail surface. Splits and tears in nails can be fixed by applying nail glue or clear nail polish. In addition, frequent manicures by a trained manicurist can help keep nails in a healthy condition.

People with brittle nails may use a moisturizer at night and sleep with their hands in cotton gloves. Finally, nails should not be used as a tool. Do not dial the phone with nail tips or use them to perform other chores, such as opening soda cans. This can weaken the nails and lead to breakage.  If trauma to the nails cannot be avoided, it is best to cut the nails short.

In the rare situations where internal disease is responsible for brittle splitting nails, the underlying condition will need to be diagnosed and treated before nails can be restored to health.