Why Are My Nails Splitting?

Why Are My Nails Splitting?

Splitting nails can be frustrating, uncomfortable and difficult to manage. Whether they peel in layers, break at the tips, or split down the centre, weak and fragile nails often feel impossible to grow. If you are struggling with splitting nails, you are certainly not alone. It is one of the most common nail concerns we see at The Nail and Beauty Lounge.

The good news is that most causes of splitting nails can be improved with consistent care, the right habits and sometimes professional support. Here is a clear, practical guide to why nails split and what you can do to strengthen them again.

1. Nail Dehydration

Dry nails are far more likely to split, peel or break. Overwashing, harsh soaps, cold weather and lack of moisturising can all remove the natural oils that keep nails flexible.

How to improve hydration:
Apply cuticle oil twice daily
Use hand cream after every wash
Avoid excessive sanitiser where possible
Choose gentle soaps that do not strip moisture
Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning

Hydrated nails bend instead of snapping, making them far less likely to split.

2. Over-Filing or Incorrect Nail Shaping

Aggressive filing or sawing the nail back and forth weakens the nail layers, causing peeling and splits.

Better filing habits:
Use a gentle, high-quality file
File only in one direction
Shape nails while they are dry
Avoid shaping too frequently
Choose a soft oval or rounded shape for strength

This simple change can dramatically reduce splitting at the tips.

3. Frequent Exposure to Water and Chemicals

Nails repeatedly swell and shrink when exposed to water, making them softer and prone to splitting. Cleaning products and detergents also strip the nail plate.

How to protect your nails:
Wear gloves when cleaning
Avoid soaking nails unnecessarily
Moisturise immediately after water exposure
Use gentle cleaning products if possible

Small daily habits make a big difference in nail resilience.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies

Nails need certain vitamins to grow strong and healthy. Deficiencies in biotin, iron or zinc can lead to peeling and splitting.

What you can do:
Eat a balanced diet with high-protein foods
Include leafy greens, nuts, seeds and oily fish
Consider a biotin supplement if advised by a professional
Stay hydrated throughout the day

If you think you may have a deficiency, speak with your GP.

5. Removing Gel or Acrylics Incorrectly

Peeling off gel polish, biting enhancements or over-buffing the nail surface can remove layers of the natural nail, weakening it significantly.

Best practice:
Always have gel polish removed professionally
Never peel or pick your enhancements
Use strengthening treatments between appointments
Choose gentler systems like BIAB to rebuild the nail plate

Professional removal protects the integrity of your nails.

6. Ageing and Natural Nail Changes

As we age, our nails naturally lose moisture and can become more brittle, increasing the likelihood of splitting.

How to support ageing nails:
Use cuticle oil daily
Choose strengthening treatments
Keep nails short and rounded
Book regular manicures for maintenance

Ageing nails can be strengthened effectively with consistent care.

7. Physical Trauma to the Nails

Using nails as tools, catching them on fabrics or typing heavily can all cause stress that leads to splits.

Try these simple adjustments:
Use your fingertips, not your nails
Be gentle when opening cans and packaging
File small snags before they become full splits
Avoid tapping nails on hard surfaces

Reducing daily micro-trauma supports stronger nail growth.

8. Use Strengthening Treatments for Extra Protection

If your nails are already splitting, strengthening treatments can help rebuild flexibility and durability.

Professional options include:
BIAB overlays
Strengthening base coats
Deep hydration treatments
Regular maintenance appointments

BIAB is one of the most effective treatments for repairing consistently splitting or peeling nails.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your nails have been splitting for a long time, have become painful or seem to worsen despite care, professional support can help identify the cause.

At The Nail and Beauty Lounge, we can:
Assess the condition of your nails
Recommend strengthening treatments
Help repair damage and prevent further splitting
Create a personalised nail care routine
Support long-term healthy growth

Ready to Strengthen Your Nails?

Splitting nails do not have to be a permanent problem. With the right routine and expert guidance, your nails can grow stronger, healthier and more resilient.

Book your nail health appointment with The Nail and Beauty Lounge:
https://thenailandbeautylounge.book.app/book-now