Finger Nail Tears

Twins Mom · ‎04-03-2016

I have been having repeated tears in my fingernails - on the sides close to where finger ends - especially thumbs. I have tried cutting nail shorter. Of course it's a cause of catching on clothing, etc. Do I cut down as short/close to the tear as possible? I am at a loss.

Carmie · ‎10-25-2010

Mine are doing the same thing...every nail except my thumbs.

This happens every year around this time. I blame it on the cold weather. I cut my nails back pretty short and will start over.

Nail hardener and polish only makes it worse. Normally, my nails are strong and very seldom tear or break.

I find this frustrating.

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

@Twins Mom

Have you tried filing the split so it won't be as likely to snag. And yes I would try cutting as close to the tear as possible.

beach-mom · ‎03-09-2010

@Twins Mom - If I were you I would take a file or emery board and file close to the end of the nail as possible. Be sure to go in ONE direction, not back and forth. If you can get them smooth, but short, I would start putting oil on them every night. I use solar oil, but I've also used Josie Maran's argan oil too. Just massage it in, and it should help the nail.

I would put a clear base coat on. Olive and June makes a good one. I recently got the Dermalect system, and I'm impressed with that so far.

You might want to invest in a professional manicure too. That would give you a head start and you wouldn't have to fix the nail yourself. Good luck!

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

Warm dry air indoors dries nails and causes them to become weak. Mine fall apart as soon as ji turn th3 heat on in the fall. Try to keep oil or some kind of cuticle cream on them as much as possible and file them down very short.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

Glittergal · ‎05-12-2010

I deal with the same thing. The only thing that helps me is to cut the nail as short as possible, use a glass file to keep the nail as smooth as possible, and rubbing argan oil or jojoba oil into them before bed. It also helps to use a moisturizer every time you wash your hands, but I am bad about remembering that so I have to keep lotion by every sink in my house.

Twins Mom · ‎04-03-2016

@monicakm

Yes, first thing I try filing. Sometimes have to file over top to prevent snags but usually only helps a little while.

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

Do you have a glass nail file? I bought one probably 25 years ago and would never go back to the old board style again.

Desertdi · ‎03-13-2010

You can put a "patch" on. Cut a tiny piece of fibrous paper....like paper towel....and apply it to the damaged area of the nail with super glue. It should last until the nail grows a little longer.

Consuming fish oil capsules also strengthens your nails.

♥Surface of the Sun♥