You might wonder what is going on if you’ve gone from flawless manicures to peeling, splitting nails seemingly overnight. While age and stress can play a role, brittle nails often point to a mix of everyday habits, environmental exposure, and internal health.
Nails are made of keratin, the same protein found in your skin and hair. They grow from the nail matrix, located under your cuticle, and any damage to that area can affect how your nails grow. The technical terms for nail splitting include onychorrhexis (vertical ridges) and onychoschizia (horizontal splitting).
So, why are your nails suddenly falling apart?
Hydration and nutrition are big players. If you’re skipping meals, drinking too little water, or missing key nutrients like biotin, zinc, or iron, your nails can weaken. Stress also takes a toll, draining moisture from your body—including your nails—while cold weather and dry air worsen the effect.
Frequent handwashing, dishwashing, and sanitizer use can strip nails of protective oils. Add harsh cleaning agents or chemical-laden nail products, and it’s no surprise your nails are rebelling.
Even beauty routines may be to blame. Gel manicures, especially when removed aggressively, can thin and dry out the nail plate. One growing concern is the Russian manicure, which removes the cuticle entirely, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.
Sometimes, it’s best to give your nails a break. Take a manicure hiatus, moisturize daily (especially around the cuticles), and treat your nails with the same care as your skin and hair. If the problem persists despite lifestyle changes, it could be a sign of an underlying issue—and worth discussing with a dermatologist.
