Splitting of fingernails can be caused by various factors, including physical stress, nutrient deficiency, or wear and tear. Here are some of the common causes of fingernail splitting:

• Moisture: Exposure to moisture can cause nails to become weak and brittle. Long-term exposure can cause the skin around the nail to soften, making the nail itself brittle, making it easier to break, bend, or split.

• Injury: Trauma or injury to the nails can cause a small or large split. If the injury is severe, it may also affect the nail bed.

• Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that can affect the nails, causing horizontal splits, tiny pits in the nail bed, white, yellow, or brown nails, loose nails, crumbling nails, and red nail beds.

• Aging: As you age, your nails become thinner and more likely to crack. This is most common in women over 60 but can affect men too.

• Nutrient deficiency: A lack of biotin, iron, or calcium can cause nail splitting and other nail changes.

• Medical conditions: Split nails can sometimes be a sign of other medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, anemia, and heart disease.

To prevent fingernail splitting, you can try the following:

• Reduce how often you wet and dry your nails.
• Wear gloves when doing household chores that involve water.
• Use moisturizer and nail hardening products.
• Avoid nail cosmetics (hardeners, polish, polish removers/solvents), nail procedures, and occupational exposure to various chemicals.
• Eat a balanced diet that includes biotin, iron, and calcium.

If youre experiencing frequent splitting, its best to see a doctor or dermatologist who can suggest a medicine that helps.