Nailed It

I nailed it when I self-diagnosed myself with a common fingernail problem, Onychoschizia. The condition, is really just a fancy name for splitting fingernails.

Your fingernails can provide clues to your overall health.  Are your nails healthy, or sending you a health warning?

Let’s examine why I may have splitting/peeling nails?
1.  Climate Changes – sudden changes in weather
2.  Dietary Issues – some think lack of protein contributes to thin nails
3.  Prescription Medications – some medicines have a drying effect
4.  Psoriasis, Yeast Infections or Other Skin Conditions- adverse events
5.  Chemical Exposure – not wearing gloves while using harsh cleansers when cleaning your home.
6.  Immersion in Water – Water swells and separates the layers of the nail plate, If you keep re-wetting the nails, they never dry properly.
7.  Post-Fake Nail Trauma – Acrylic or gel nails
8. The Wrong Kind of Nail Treatments – nail strengtheners and peeling nail solutions contain a lot of chemicals.

I am not one for nail art, acrylic or gel nails. My self-diagnosis includes the possibility of why I think I have splitting nails. I conclude that daily mega dose use of antibacterial gel and excessive washing of my hands might greatly contribute to my condition along with the cold winter temps.  I touch every dirty doorknob in Central Pennsylvania when I visit medical practices. I believe these procedures are my proactive approach to keep my germ level at bay.

Interesting fun fact:  New York City is the birthplace of the nail salon.  The first American nail manicurist, Mary E. Cobb, opened “Mrs Pray’s Manicure” in 1878. New York now has over 1,000 nail salons, I do have my favorite place to enjoy a manicure when visiting my daughter in Manhattan. All the while, New York nail salons are currently under investigation for unfair treatment of their technicians but that’s another story.

According to 2013 statistics, the nail polish industry represent $768 million. That’s a staggering 32% increase from the year before. No surprise with collaborations with movie debuts, colors designed by artists and movie stars along with novel ways of making nail color last longer with gels and at home products.

The beauty market is greatly enhanced with nail products being an affordable luxury for anyone to indulge. Regardless of age and economics, most women experiment with fashion with nail polish. The next time you go to the nail salon or even if you do your own manicure, take notice of your nails. What are your nails saying about your health?

I hope you don’t have irregularities with your fingernails but in the event you do, no physician needed, you can nail it yourself.

Have a wonderful week!