Older people’s toenails can become brittle for a variety of reasons. As people age, their nails (fingers and toes) naturally become thinner, dryer, and more brittle due to decreased blood circulation, changes in hormones, and a decrease in natural oils being produced by the body.
Genetics can also play a role, as some individuals tend to have naturally dryer nails.
Fungus infection can cause toenails to become thicker and brittle, especially if proper hygiene is not practiced. Fungal infections can occur when nails are exposed to warm, damp environments such as sweaty shoes and showers.
Additionally, toenails can be impacted by lifestyle choices such as smoking, exposure to harsh chemicals or detergents, or using nail polish and removers too frequently.
Finally, age-related diseases such as diabetes and circulation problems can cause brittle toenails as well. To help prevent nails from becoming brittle, it is important for older people to avoid smoking, take breaks from wearing tight-fitting shoes, keep their feet dry and clean, and practice good hygiene to avoid fungal infections.
Additionally, moisturizing nails regularly with a cream or oil can help keep them soft and prevent brittleness.
Why do toenails get brittle as you age?
As you age, your toenails can become more brittle, due to a lack of nutrients, circulation and age-related changes. The toenail is actually made up of layers of a protein called keratin, which can become weak and dried out.
Over time, nutritional deficiencies and a lack of natural oils can contribute to your nails becoming brittle. Poor circulation is also a contributing factor, as aging can reduce the blood flow to the toenails, meaning that they don’t receive the same amount of nourishment.
Additionally, many of the common medications people take as they age can also lead to toenail brittleness as a side effect. Finally, hormonal changes can also cause the nails to become thinner and break more easily as you age.
How do you get rid of brittle toenails?
To get rid of brittle toenails, there are a few things you can do. First, if you can track down the cause, then you should work on addressing it. For example, if your toenails are brittle because you are repeatedly wearing shoes that are too small, then you should purchase shoes that fit properly and provide adequate toe space.
Next, you should make sure to trim your toenails regularly. Filing them down is also beneficial as it encourages new growth and discourages further breakage. Additionally, you can massage a gentle oil or lotion around your toenails and massage it in to the nail bed.
This helps to keep your nails hydrated and protects them against breakage.
If you want to apply a specific product specifically created to treat brittle nails, you can find a variety of over the counter treatments. Make sure to read the directions and use the products safely and appropriately.
Topical treatments often contain formula ingredients that help strengthen brittle nails like peptides, biotin, and proteins.
Finally, try to reduce the exposure of your toenails to harsh chemicals like nail polish remover and use disposable manicure tools rather than sharing or reusing them. You should also avoid activities such as running or swimming that could lead to further trauma on your toenails.
With a bit of effort, you should be able to gradually strengthen your toenails and get rid of any brittleness.
What deficiency causes brittle toenails?
A deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals can lead to brittle toenails, including iron, zinc, selenium, biotin, and Vitamin A. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of brittle nails, and is linked to anemia.
Biotin deficiency has similar symptoms to Iron deficiency and is associated with dry, brittle nails. Zinc is also an important factor, as it helps with the production of collagen which is essential for strong healthy nails.
A lack of selenium can also lead to weak, cracked nails, as can a deficiency of Vitamin A which is important for production of healthy oils that keep nails hydrated. Other causes of brittle toenails can include frequent contact with detergents, hot or cold weather, or wearing tight shoes.
How can I improve my aging toenails?
Improving the look of your toenails as you age can be accomplished through a variety of strategies.
The first step is to ensure your toenails are regularly trimmed and filed. Toenails often thicken and become more brittle as you age, so it is essential to regularly trim and file your nails to avoid splitting or cracking.
Also, pedicures and regular use of a foot scrub can help reduce discoloration or yellowing. Soaking the feet in Epsom salts or warm water can help soften toenails, allowing them to be more easily trimmed.
Maintaining healthy cuticles and avoiding frequent contact with chemicals such as nail polish removers, can help reduce the risk of discoloration or bacteria buildup.
In addition to regular maintenance, you can also experiment with treatments that can strengthen toenails, such as biotin supplements or nail-strengthening polishes.
Finally, it is important to moisturize your feet to keep the skin around your nails healthy. Regular use of a rich cream or lotion on your feet can help reduce splitting, cracking and other signs of aging.
By following these steps and implementing a regular routine, you can help improve the overall look of your aging toenails.
What do aging toenails look like?
Aging toenails can look quite different depending on the person. Generally speaking, toenails may become more brittle, yellowish in color, and thicker. As people age, the skin and nails on the feet tend to become dryer and more prone to cracking, discoloration and infection.
Thick yellow toenails may be a sign of an underlying fungal infection, while a combination of thickening, whitening, and becoming discolored may be due to psoriasis. Overall, it is important to keep an eye on your toenails and seek treatment from a medical professional if any irregular changes occur.
How do you prevent toenails from thickening as you age?
To prevent thickening of toenails as you age, there are several things you can do. First, spend time practicing daily foot care. Be sure to trim your toenails straight across, as round edges can encourage toenail thickness.
Additionally, take care of your feet by wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly and keep your feet dry. If you have diabetes, controlling your blood sugar can help to prevent toenail thickening. While taking a bath or shower, also be sure to scrub between your toes with soap and warm water to keep skin clean and dry.
You may also be benefitting from using an antifungal or antibacterial medication or foot soak if there is evidence of infection. Lastly, if toenail thickening is still a problem, visit a podiatrist or dermatologist to discuss your treatment options.
How do elderly take care of their toenails?
Caring for toenails is an important part of self-care and grooming for the elderly. Toenails should be kept trimmed and filed regularly to prevent ingrown toenails, infection, and general discomfort.
Many elderly individuals may have trouble reaching, seeing, and maintaining their toenails, though, so it is helpful to have someone else help out with this task. Before trimming, feet should be soaked in warm soapy water and dried completely with a soft towel.
When trimming, use a pair of sharp toenail clippers designed specifically for thick toenails, and make sure to clip straight across the nail. Do not cut the nails too short, as this can lead to discomfort and pain.
After trimming, the cuticles surrounding the toenails should be pushed gently back with a clean orangewood stick to prevent infection from bacteria. To help keep the nails from growing too long, use an emery board to file the sharp edges and corners of the nails twice a week.
To finish off the process, use lotion on the feet, toes, and toenails.
Can thickened toenails be reversed?
Yes, thickened toenails can be reversed. There are a variety of treatments available to help with this condition, depending on the cause. Common treatments include over-the-counter antifungal medication, taking steps to reduce moisture around the toes, keeping the feet dry and clean, and wearing comfortable, breathable shoes.
If the thickening is caused by an underlying medical condition such as psoriasis or eczema, your doctor may recommend topical medications or steroid injections. In more serious cases, your doctor may recommend a procedure to remove the thickened portion of the nail.
Your doctor can advise you on the best treatment option for you depending on the cause of your thickened toenails.
How do I stop my toenails from being brittle?
There are several things you can do to help prevent brittle toenails. These include:
1. Cut your toenails regularly. This can help to prevent brittle nails by encouraging the healthy regrowth of toenails. Make sure not to cut your toenails too short, as this can make them more prone to breakage.
2. Wear properly-fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can put pressure on your toenails, causing them to become brittle. Make sure to try on shoes before you purchase them, and bring your own socks if you plan to try on shoes at a store.
3. Keep your feet dry and clean. Moisture and dirt can contribute to brittle toenails. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly after bathing and to wear socks that reduce moisture.
4. Avoid harsh treatments. Nail treatments like nail polish or acrylic nails can weaken toenails and make them prone to breaking. If you choose to apply these treatments, be sure to remove them regularly and use a gentle removal process.
5. Eat a balanced diet. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can contribute to brittle toenails, so make sure to include foods like leafy greens, nuts, and lean proteins in your diet. You can also consider taking a multivitamin or mineral supplement to help maintain healthy toenails.
6. Consider medical treatments. In some cases, medications, laser treatment, or specialized nail care products may be appropriate if you are experiencing brittle toenails. Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.
What does it mean when your toenails are brittle?
When your toenails are brittle, it means that the nails have become easily breakable. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including excessive exposure to water, detergents, or solvent-based products, such as nail polish remover or adhesive.
Brittle nails can also be caused by ingrown toenails, fungal infections, or simply, dry conditions. Other causes of brittle toenails include vitamin deficiency, thyroid disease, and diabetes. If your toenails become brittle, it is important to determine the underlying cause and address it accordingly.
Depending on the cause, treatment may include dietary changes, increased fluid intake, vitamins and supplements, moisturizing products, or anti-fungal medication. In addition, cutting the nails shorter, protecting them from exposure to moisture, and avoiding harsh chemicals may help prevent and remedy brittle nails.
How can I make my toenails healthy again?
Making your toenails healthy again can be a multi-step approach that begins with good foot hygiene and the use of the right nail care products.
First and foremost, it is important to practice good foot hygiene. This includes washing your feet in lukewarm water and soap daily. Keep an eye out for any redness, irritation, cracked skin, or signs of infection when washing and take care of any issues as soon as they arise.
Once you’ve dried your feet, using a pumice stone to gently remove any thickened or dead skin is beneficial.
In terms of nail care products, there are a few important ones you should have on hand. A foot soak with Epsom salts and a few drops of tea tree oil is beneficial for keeping your feet soft and infection-free.
A foot scrub can help remove any dead skin cells and dirt that has built up in your nails, as well as a foot cream or lotion for keeping your feet moisturized. Nail oil can help keep your toenails strong and healthy.
Lastly, antifungal nail cream can help prevent the growth of fungal infections that can affect your toenails.
In addition to good foot hygiene and the use of these products, make sure to wear proper fitting shoes that don’t rub or pinch your toes. This will help prevent any further damage to the toenail. Taking these steps can help keep your toenails healthy and looking their best.
What does brittle nails mean about your health?
Brittle nails can be an indicator of a variety of health conditions. Common causes may include nutritional deficiencies such as iron deficiency, hypothyroidism, or psoriasis. Furthermore, brittle nails may be a sign of a fungal infection.
Engaging in activities that expose the nails to harsh chemicals, such as frequent dipping in water or using nail polish and remover, can also make them brittle.
Brittle nails can be frustrating and can be a sign that something is out of balance in one’s body. If someone notices that their nails have become brittle, they should make an appointment with their physician to discuss possible causes and treatment options.
Depending on the underlying cause, a physician may recommend lifestyle changes to improve nail health and help prevent further damage to the nails. Taking supplements and/or adjusting one’s diet to include more vital nutrients may also help, depending on the cause.
As always, it’s important to be proactive when it comes to one’s health and visit their doctor at any sign of concern.
Does biotin help brittle toenails?
Yes, biotin can help with brittle toenails. Biotin is a type of B vitamin that helps with healthy growth for the body’s cells, including cells in nails and hair. Brittle toenails can be improved by taking biotin supplements daily, usually at a dosage of 3000 micrograms per day.
In addition to taking biotin supplements, one can also improve the overall health of the nails by consuming a diet rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin C, and zinc, while avoiding too much sugar or refined carbohydrates.
Proper grooming is also important, such as soaking the feet in a warm saltwater bath, wearing moisture wicking socks to keep the nails dry, and filing the nail down instead of cutting it. With these steps, brittle toenails may be improved or even completely healed over time.
Can B12 deficiency cause toenail problems?
Yes, B12 deficiency can cause toenail problems. Toenail changes commonly associated with B12 deficiency can include poor-quality nails that are pale and brittle, breaking easily, and with ridges or indentations.
In some cases, B12 deficiency can also cause discoloration or loss of the toenail.
Nail changes like these are caused by anemia, which is common with B12 deficiency. In anemia, the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells, which can lead to abnormal nail changes that can include brittle, discolored, and ridged nails.
People with an iron deficiency can also experience toenail changes, however these changes are different from those associated with B12 deficiency.
Diagnosis of B12 deficiency is typically done through a blood test, with confirmation of specific levels of B12. In addition, blood tests can be done to determine the level of other vitamins and specifically iron deficiency.
Treatment of B12 deficiency will depend on its cause, but typically involves injections of B12 or daily supplements. Once levels of B12 are normalized, changes to the toenails should improve over time.