Beauty Intelligence: The Facts About Dry Nails.

Nails consist of keratin, the structural protein that is also found in our skin and hair. It should therefore come as no surprise that just like the rest of our body, our nails are equally as susceptible to suffering neglect.
Dry nails are one of the most unwanted yet common problems I regularly find in the majority of clients. Its characteristics are:

• Nails have a dragging feeling to the touch
• Peel easily
• Visibly dull in appearance 
• A flaking free edge
• Cuticles are often very dry
• Superficial ridges may be present

So what exactly causes dry, flaky nails? Although this particular nail condition has numerous causes the following culprits are more than often responsible:

• Exposure to detergents and chemicals. Harsh washing and cleaning products, hair treatments and chlorine are just a few of the products responsible for dry nails.
• Cold weather conditions. Just like our skin, the nails need protecting from harsh weather conditions. Fail to do so and you will soon notice visibly dry, dehydrated nails.
• Dietary deficiency. A diet containing low levels of fat will not only cause skin to dry, but contribute considerably to the condition of your nails. The human body requires the fat obtained from natural sources for essential functions such as the uptake of fat-soluble vitamins. Failing to provide it with an adequate amount will cause numerous health problems including dry nails. This is because our nails require a specific amount of fat in order for the layers of the nail plate to bond together.
• Illness. From the common cold to more serious conditions such as thyroid disease, ill health can have a dramatic effect on our nails causing an array of problems including a visibly dry, flaky appearance. 
• Overexposure to nail enamel remover. Overusing nail enamel remover will dry out the nail plate causing it to flake and peel. This is particularly common in products which contain acetone.
• Excessive or over zealous buffing. Excessive buffing causes friction induced heat. As a result, nails not only become dry, dehydrated and flaky, but the nail plate becomes thinner and, weaker.
• Nail enamel. You may think that your nails are looking polished to perfection but think again! Regular use of nail varnish can result in a severe case of dry nails. This is because these particular products contain ingredients such as formaldehyde, one of the known culprits responsible for drying out the nail plate.

Regular professional manicures will not only improve the overall condition of dry nails, but replace any lost moisture as your technician will ensure that nails are thoroughly moisturized, hydrated and nourished. As a result, the layers of the nail plate will bond together, preventing the free edge from further flaking once filed.
A great tip to maintain moisture levels between salon visits is to apply liberal amounts of hand cream or petroleum jelly prior to pulling on a pair or gloves or, socks before bed. This acts as an intensive moisturizing treatment and will ensure that hands, nails and, cuticles are kept thoroughly nourished and hydrated.