Onychoschizia, also known as onychoschisisor or lamellar dystrophy, is a condition where nails either on fingers and toes split horizontally within the nail plate. This skin disorder is often noticed with onychorrhexis where ridging of the nail plate splits longitudinally too and these both together are known as brittle nail syndrome.
Strong, long nails can get you a lot of compliments, but they can get brittle due to various reasons. Onychoschizia is often categorized by soft, super thin and splitting nails and is seen mostly in women than men. This condition occurs when alpha keratin, a protein covering the tips of fingers and toes which plays a crucial role in shielding the nails from pollutants, damages wear out. In certain cases, it is also an indication of an underlying health condition.
What Causes Onychoschizia?
There are many causes behind nail splitting. One of the biggest reasons is frequent wetting of the nails. Internal injuries, trauma can also lead to this condition. It is also seen mostly in patients suffering from the disorders of the endocrine system, tuberculosis and malnutrition. Individuals suffering from various skin conditions like psoriasis, lichen planus and those on certain medications may also develop onychoschizia.
Frequent usage of items with certain chemical components like acids, solvents, cement, sugar and salt solutions can also lead to this condition.
How To Cure Onychoschizia?
Brittle nails can be treated with some medications and topical applications. Talk to your dermatologist for medicines and to understand the reason behind it. However, try these simple yet effective home remedies to get rid of brittle nails and get them stronger.
Coconut Oil:
Rub some coconut oil into the affected area and leave it to dry naturally. The healthy fatty acids in coconut oil penetrate deep into the layers and strengthen the weak nails from within. Besides nurturing nails, coconut oil also promotes healthy growth.
Tea Tree Oil:
Tea tree oil is loaded with antiseptic properties, and it is the best remedy to cure brittle nails caused due to fungal infections. It repairs damaged and discoloured nails and heals them completely. You can also mix other essential oils like lavender, jojoba, lemon and frankincense oils for better results.
Citric Juices:
Juices from citric rich fruits like lemon, orange are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants that can fortify weak and brittle nails. Rub these juices on the nails with a cotton ball to remove stains and for restoring the natural colour.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral. This natural wonder is your one-stop remedy to get rid of those painful nails on your hands and toes. Rub in some turmeric paste and let it dry. Wash it with plain water and dab. Do it regularly to heal naturally.
Sea Salt:
Sea salt is a traditional and time-tested remedy to heal onychoschizia. Melt some sea salt in some water and dip your fingers or toes in it for ten minutes to get rid of impurities and for strengthening your nails.