You slip on your new top and disaster strikes: your nail snags and splits into fine layers, exposing a dull and rough nail plate. It may seem trivial, but the causes are many and it’s a sign that shouldn’t be ignored. The good news? With a few simple steps, your nails can be back to their best. Here’s how to give them the care they truly deserve.
Why do nails split?
Split nails are every manicure lover’s nightmare and often a sign that they’ve been weakened. There are many possible causes, but they all share a common thread: in most cases, splitting is the result of external aggressors. So what exactly are we talking about?
Everyday aggressors
Our daily habits can quickly wear down our nails. Household products, especially the harsher ones, can cause real damage if used without protective rubber gloves. Prolonged contact with water or even nail biting (yes, we saw that) can compromise the keratin, the fibrous protein that forms most of the nail plate. Over time, the “cement” that binds the layers of keratin weakens and the nail begins to peel. And that’s not all...
Household cleaners, water, nail biting… these everyday actions can weaken your nails. (@pixabay)
Harsh manicures
Overzealous filing or buffing, exposure to strong chemicals like acetone, and frequent manicures can all compromise nail health. Using a coarse file or applying too much pressure when buffing can damage the top layers of the nail plate. Acetone is particularly drying, weakening the nail’s structure. When these habits are repeated, the nail doesn’t have time to recover, becomes thinner, and begins to split. In severe cases where splitting extends to the nail base, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.
Step away from the file! Switch to gentler care to protect your nails.
Natural ageing
Time takes its toll on our nails too. As we age, keratin becomes less dense and retains less moisture. Nails dry out more easily, lose strength and need targeted care to maintain flexibility and resilience.
Nutritional deficiencies and health issues
A lack of vitamins and minerals (like vitamin B8, zinc, iron, magnesium...) can also be behind the splitting. Without the right nutrients, nail matrix function is disrupted: growth slows and keratin quality suffers.
Certain illnesses and medications can also impact keratin quality. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical advice to understand the cause and tailor your nail care accordingly.
Don’t let age or nutritional gaps get the better of your nails, take action today!
How to repair split nails
If you’re struggling with nails that keep splitting, there are simple ways to strengthen them, prevent further damage and bring back the joy of beautiful manicures.
Start a targeted care routine
This is key to boosting keratin production and strengthening the nail plate. Here are two ways to get started:
The Ultimate Damaged Nails Treatment Routine
This care routine works in synergy to repair, nourish and harden your nails in just 2 weeks using specially formulated regenerating and hydrating treatments. Here’s how it works:
Week 1 (on clean, bare nails):
- Apply Nail Strengthening Serum 1 to 3 times a day to stimulate keratin production and rebuild nail density.
- Massage nails twice daily with Nourishing Cuticle Oil, a blend of 6 botanical oils that deeply nourishes nails and cuticles.
- For on-the-go care throughout the day, use the Nourishing Nail Pen, enriched with castor oil to continuously hydrate and protect your nails.
- Finish with the S.O.S. Mask 3 nights a week, applying a generous layer before bed. Let it dry, then peel off or rinse off the next morning.
Week 2:
- Apply the S.O.S. Base Coat every 2 days (up to 3 times a week) without removing previous layers.
- Continue using the Nourishing Cuticle Oil morning and evening, along with the Nourishing Nail Pen as needed.
- At the end of the week, remove the S.O.S. Base Coat with a gentle remover, then apply the S.O.S. Mask again for a final overnight treatment.
You can repeat this treatment as needed for best results.
The Ultimate Routine: powerful care to restore healthy, resilient nails.
Nourish nails from within with food supplements
Beauty begins on the inside, and nails are no exception. With Nail Boost supplements, you’re giving your nails a natural blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (brewer’s yeast, blueberry and turmeric extracts, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C...) to support nail growth and enhance their strength and shine. For best results, take 2 capsules a day for 3 months as an intensive repair treatment. Let it grow!
Nourish your nails from the inside with Nail Boost to transform their appearance on the outside.
Filing tips to avoid worsening nail splitting
Filing is an art! To prevent further splitting, use gentle tools like a glass nail file or a file for fragile nails. The right technique? File under the nail with a slight downward angle, always in the same direction, to smooth the free edge without thinning or damaging it. Trust us, you’ll notice the difference! Keep nails short to minimise breakage. Avoid scissors or clippers which can cause splits — a file is your best friend.
Mastering your filing technique = stronger, more resilient nails.
Preventing splits: everyday habits to adopt
Simple habits can go a long way in preventing nail splitting:
- Protect your hands: wear gloves for cleaning, washing up or any tasks that might harm your nails.
- Hydrate regularly: use nail and cuticle oil daily and apply hand cream to keep skin soft and protected.
- Eat a balanced diet to supply all the nutrients your nails need to grow well.
- Take breaks between gel polish manicures and alternate with care routines.
- Choose bio-sourced nail polishes and gentle, acetone-free removers that are kinder to your nails.
A few daily habits are all it takes to keep your nails strong for longer.
With good nail hygiene and lots of care, your nails will soon bounce back. Listen to them, pamper them, and you’ll see: they’ll reward you by being the perfect canvas for your favourite manicures.
Frequently asked questions
How can you tell if a nail is splitting?
A split nail occurs when the keratin structure breaks down. You’ll spot it by the visible layers of keratin peeling away, leaving an uneven surface that often looks dull and feels rough. Split nails are a sign of dehydration and a disrupted balance.
What type of nail file should I use for splitting nails?
Always go for filing rather than cutting to protect the keratin layers. Choose a gentle nail file designed for fragile nails, ideally with a fine grit, to respect the nail’s natural structure. File in one direction only, from the outside edge toward the centre, and from underneath the nail, holding the file at a slight downward angle. This technique smooths the free edge without thinning it or causing micro-cracks. Avoid metal files and back-and-forth movements, which encourage splitting and breakage.
How long does it take to get strong, healthy nails again?
It takes around 3 to 6 months for a fingernail to grow back fully. With the right routine — nourishing care, food supplements and protection — you’ll start noticing improvements in just a few weeks: smoother surface, stronger nails with better resistance and a healthy natural shine.
