You slip on your new top and—disaster strikes: a nail catches and splits into thin layers, leaving the nail plate exposed, dull, and rough. It's a common issue with multiple causes that shouldn't be overlooked. The good news? With a few simple steps, your nails can regain all their vitality. Here’s how to give them the care they deserve.
Why do nails peel?
Peeling nails are a manicure's worst nightmare, and they're often a sign that nails are weakened. While there are many potential causes, they all share one thing in common: in the vast majority of cases, peeling stems from external aggressions. But which ones, exactly?
Everyday aggressions
Our everyday habits can quickly damage our nails. Cleaning products are often harsh and can take their toll if you use them without rubber gloves. But that’s not all: prolonged contact with water and biting your nails (yes, we see you) can damage keratin, the fibrous protein that makes up most of the nail plate. Over time, the "cement" holding the layers of keratin together becomes less effective, and the nail plate starts to peel. Other factors can have an impact too.
Household cleaners, water, nail biting… everyday habits that weaken your nails. (@pixabay)
Harsh manicures
Excessive buffing or filing, overuse of chemicals such as acetone, and too-frequent manicures (such as repeated applications of gel polish) can all weaken our nails. A file that’s too coarse or buffing too hard can damage the upper layers of the nail plate. Acetone’s drying effect can weaken the nail’s structure. When these habits continue, the nail has no time to regenerate: it becomes thinner and starts to split. In the most severe cases, when the splitting extends to the base of the nail, it’s essential to see a dermatologist.
Stop buffing! Protect your nail health with gentler care.
Natural aging
Our nails aren't spared by the passing of time! With age, keratin loses density and holds onto moisture less effectively. Nails become drier, more fragile, and require fortifying treatments to maintain their flexibility and strength.
Deficiencies and medical conditions
A nutritional deficiency in vitamins and minerals (vitamin B8, zinc, iron, magnesium...) can also cause nails to peel. Without essential nutrients, the nail matrix can't function properly: nail growth slows down and keratin quality declines.
Certain illnesses and medical treatments can also weaken keratin. In these cases, it is best to consult a doctor to identify the exact cause and adopt a tailored routine to preserve your nail health.
Don’t let age or nutritional deficiencies damage your nails—take action!
How do you repair peeling nails?
If you're struggling to get rid of peeling nails, simple solutions exist to strengthen them, minimize breakage, and get back to enjoying gorgeous manicures.
Adopt a targeted care routine
This is key to boosting keratin production and strengthening the nail plate. Here are two effective approaches:
The Ultimate Damaged Nails Treatment
This care routine works in synergy to repair, nourish, and harden your nails in just 2 weeks thanks to targeted regenerating and hydrating treatments. How does it work?
Week 1 (on bare, clean nails):
- Apply Keratin Booster1 to 3 times a day to stimulate keratin production and strengthen the nail plate.
- Massage the nail twice a day with Green Oil, a blend of 6 botanical oils that deeply nourishes the nail and cuticles.
- For on-the-go care throughout the day, use Perfecting Concentrate, enriched with castor oil, to protect your nails and keep them hydrated.
- Finally, apply a thick layer of S.O.S Mask3 nights a week to strengthen your nails. Leave it to dry, then peel it off or wash it off with soapy water the next day.
Week 2:
- Apply S.O.S Baseevery 2 days (up to 3 times a week) without removing the previous layers.
- Continue applying Green Oil morning and night along with the Perfecting Concentrate.
- At the end of the week, remove the S.O.S. Base with a gentle remover, then reapply the S.O.S. Mask for one final night of deep care.
You can repeat this treatment course as needed for maximum efficacy.
Nourish nails from the inside out with dietary supplements
They say beauty comes from within, and nails are no exception. With Nail Boost supplements, you give them a blend of naturally derived vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (brewer’s yeast, blueberry and turmeric extracts, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C...) that stimulates nail growth while improving their strength and shine. Take them as an intensive course to help repair nails in need: 2 capsules a day for 3 months. Let it grow!
The right filing technique to avoid worsening peeling nails
Filing is an art! To stop your nails from splitting further, choose gentle tools, such as a glass nail file or a nail file for fragile nails. For the right technique, hold the file under the nail at a slight downward angle and file in one direction only. This shapes the free edge without thinning or damaging it. We promise you’ll see the difference! Keep your nails fairly short so they’re less exposed to knocks. And avoid scissors and nail clippers, which can cause cracks. A nail file is your best friend.
Preventing peeling: daily habits to adopt
Adopting a few simple daily habits can make all the difference in preventing peeling nails:
- Protect your hands: wear protective gloves for cleaning, washing dishes, or any chore that could damage your nails.
- Moisturize regularly with a nail and cuticle oil and apply a hand cream to protect and soften the skin.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet that provides the essential nutrients needed for proper nail growth.
- Take breaks between gel polish applications and alternate with treatment courses.
- Choose plant-based nail polishes and gentle, acetone-free removers that come off easily without damaging your nails.
Simple daily habits to keep nails strong for longer.
Good nail care, plenty of amour, and your nails will soon be looking their best again. Take the time to pay attention to them and pamper them. They’ll thank you for it and soon be ready for your most beautiful manicures.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognize a peeling nail?
A peeling nail is caused by a breakdown in the keratin structure: it's recognized by keratin layers losing cohesion and flaking apart, leaving behind an uneven, sometimes dull and rough surface. A peeling nail is a dehydrated nail whose natural balance is compromised.
Which nail file should I use if my nails are peeling?
Always prefer filing over cutting to avoid further damaging the keratin layers. Choose a gentle nail file, specially designed for fragile nails or with a fine grit, to respect their natural structure. Always file in one direction only, from the outer edge toward the center, from under the nail with a slight downward angle: this technique smooths the free edge without thinning it or causing micro-cracks. Avoid metal files and back-and-forth sawing motions, which encourage breakage and peeling.
How long does it take to get strong, healthy nails back?
Full fingernail regrowth takes around 3 to 6 months. With a tailored routine (nourishing treatments, dietary supplements, protection), the first signs of improvement appear in a few weeks: a smoother surface, harder nails that resist breaks, and a restored natural shine.
