Cold air and indoor heating reduce moisture levels, causing nails to become dry and fragile.
To protect your nails:
- Wear gloves outdoors
- Moisturize hands often
- Use thicker creams before bed
- Avoid excessively hot water
Seasonal dryness can affect nails much more than people realize.
7. Thyroid Problems
Hormonal imbalances — especially thyroid disorders — can affect nail growth and strength.
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may cause:
- Brittle nails
- Slow nail growth
- Ridges
- Peeling
Other possible symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weight changes
- Hair thinning
- Sensitivity to temperature
If brittle nails appear alongside other unexplained symptoms, it may be worth discussing thyroid testing with a healthcare provider.
8. Skin Conditions Like Psoriasis
Certain skin conditions can also affect the nails.
Nail psoriasis may cause:
- Pitting
- Thickening
- Splitting
- Discoloration
Sometimes nail symptoms appear