Onychoschizia or splitting of the fingernails is one of the most common problems that a dermatologist sees. The term onychoschizia includes splitting, frail, soft or thin nails and nails with ridges, and is more common in women.
The best treatment for Onychoschizia is to avoid repeated wetting and drying of the nails. Try to wear cotton lined rubber gloves when performing household chores that involve getting the hands wet.
Some patients are convinced that one pack of Knox Gelatin mixed with orange juice taken by mouth each day will restore nails to a youthful state. There is no scientific data that supports the use of unflavored gelatin to strengthen nails.
Signs, symptoms & indicators of Onychoschizia
Absense of brittle fingernails
Recommendations for Onychoschizia
Glucosamine / Chondroitin Sulfate
At least one doctor and several patients have reported that taking glucosaminesulfate has improved the strength of both finger and toenails.
Copper
There is a copper containing product for topical use available called CP Nail Renewal. A small placebo-controlled study using this product (study was not blinded) clearly demonstrated more rapid growth of nails. There is also some good information on this site about nail care.
Vitamin Biotin
In a controlled trial using 2.5mg of biotin per day, women with brittle nails, who had their nail thickness measured before and at 6 to 15 months afterwards, found their nail thickness increased by 25%.
Key
| Very strongly or absolutely counter-indicative |
| May do some good |
| Likely to help |