Question:
I'm almost a year postop, and suddenly my fingernails are splitting in layers. Why??

I'm almost a year postop, and suddenly my fingernails are splitting in layers. Why??    — Cindy H. (posted on March 16, 2001)

March 16, 2001
Could be a vitamin deficiency (vitamin A, I think). Are you taking all of your vitamins regularly? Try buying Sally Hansen's strengthing top coat. She has a formula specifically for split nails that works really well.
   — PT LawMom

March 16, 2001
Try taking biotin. Also, make sure you're getting enough protein every day.
   — Kellie L.

March 16, 2001
From what I've read, fingernails come from protein keratin and that has to come from plants (at least that's what Beakman says). So, maybe an increase in vegetable protein would help but you wouldn't notice the effects right away as it takes about six months for the nail to grow out from the cuticle to the tip. In the meantime a nail & cuticle cream may help if you're not inclined to polish. Hope this helps.
   — Lynn E.

March 16, 2001
I HAVE THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR YOU GO TO A PET STORE WERE THEY HAVE HORSE SUPPLIES YOU WILL BE LOOKING FOR A WHITE JAR CALLED STRAIGHT ARROW AND RUB IT ON YOUR HANDS AND EASPICIALLY YOUR NAILS AND IT SMELLS SO GOOD..I HAVE BEEN USING THIS SINCE 1985 AND I HAVE NEVER BROKEN A NAIL AND MINE ARE LONG LIKE A HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAMA' LOL I USE THE CREAM EVERY CHANCE I CAN AND ONE BOTTLE WILL LAST FOR A YEAR AND IT IS CHEAP TO...IT IS MADE FOR HORSES SO THE HOOF WOUNT CRACK WHEN THEY WALK OR GALLUP..GOOD LUCK!!..IF YOU USE THIS EVERYDAY IT WILL WORK TRUST ME PLEASE..GET IN A HABIT OF USING IT..IT IS GOOD FOR SOFTING ELBOWS AND KNESS AND FEET TOO...
   — [Anonymous]

March 16, 2001
I too had weak and splitting nails because I wore fiberglass nails for about 2 years. When I took them off my nails were in terrible shape and I thought they would never be strong again, much less long. It was suggested to me by my 20 year old daughter who has lovely nails, that I use Sally Hansens "for aging nails" on my nails 3 times a day or more. Just brush it on nail and underneath, can massage into nail if want(I didn't--just used it like polish. In a couple of months I had the strongest and longest nails I have ever had in my life, including when I took prenatal vit. when I was pregnant. Get you a bottle(Walmart for less than $5.00), you will be amazed and thrilled.
   — [Anonymous]

March 6, 2002
I've had acrylic nails put on to protect my nails. I love them because their long and it makes my hands look thin!
   — dolphins94