Whether they break, split, have ridges or have been subjected to acrylics, weak nails are not a pretty sight. It's difficult to keep polish on nails that flake or break easily, but there is hope. One major cause of weak nails is wetting nails. Frequent handwashers often complain about having weak nails, as do those who are exposed to detergents or other harsh chemicals. Hormone fluctuations can cause them as well. Many pregnant women enjoy stronger, longer nails and hair during their pregnancy, only to lose all that strength and growth after the baby is born. Conversely, low estrogen during menopause can cause nails to weaken. Your doctor can determine if a hormonal problem is to blame. In the meantime, avoid acrylic nails, which weaken the nails underneath when they're removed. Wear gloves when you do housework to protect hands and nails from cleaning agents. Apply moisturizing cuticle cream or a hand and nail lotion formula to hands after washing and after showers. Olive oil and vitamin E gel are effective, too.
Examine your diet and beef up the amounts of iron, vitamin C and vitamin E that you're getting, while avoiding sugar and flour. MayoClinic.com also recommends a biotin supplement. Keep a strengthening base coat of nail polish on your nails, and avoid colored nail polishes. Most are made with chemicals that dry nails. If you must use color, try a gentler version made without tolulene, formaldehyde and DBP - Zoya and Butter are great lines to try. Keep nails well-manicured, and file in only one direction. Keep nails smooth so they don't get snagged on fabrics, and try not to use your nails to type, open soda cans, slice open envelopes or anything else that will damage them.