Help! My nails keep splitting - What is Onychorrhexis and How Can You Treat it?

Do your nails seem to split down the middle no matter what you do? Are they rigid, jagged and constantly catching on things? You are not alone! I have had many lovely clients come to me frustrated about weak, splitting nails and there is a good chance it is something called Onychorrhexis.

Onychorrhexis sounds fancy and a bit scary, but it simply means your nails have longitudinal ridges and are prone to splitting or breaking vertically. It is not a disease but more of a nail condition and there is help.

Common Client Struggles

• "My nails keep peeling and splitting even when they are short!"

• "They snag on everything, my tights, towels, clothes and it is so annoying!"

• "Even gel polish doesn’t last, they just break underneath."

• "I’m embarrassed to show my hands because they look rough and unhealthy."

• "I’ve tried all sorts of strengtheners but nothing helps long term."

  
  

Does this sound familiar? If yes, let’s talk symptoms and solutions…

What Are the Symptoms of Onychorrhexis?

• Rigid, bumpy nail texture with deep vertical ridges from cuticle to tip

• Jagged or split edges that tear easily

• Nails that feel brittle, weak or dry

• Breaks and splits that happen easily even with short nails

• Discomfort when nails split too far down the nail bed (ouch!)

  
  

It can affect one nail or all ten and it doesn’t always have a single cause. It is often linked to:

• Overexposure to water, soaps or harsh cleaning chemicals

• Ageing and menopause (natural oils decrease with age)

• Repeated trauma (like banging or picking at nails)

• Nutritional deficiencies (low biotin, iron, or hydration)

• Certain health conditions or medications

What Can Help Strengthen and Heal the Nails?

There is no overnight miracle but consistency is key! Here is what I recommend to all my clients who are struggling with this:

1. IBX Nail Repair System – my holy grail treatment

This professional only treatment is like a “nail rehab” from the inside out. It penetrates into the nail plate to reinforce weak areas, smooth out splitting and prevent further damage. It works best in a course of treatments and you can still wear gel or polish over it. Perfect for those who want to grow their own nails or stop the splitting once and for all.

2. Daily Cuticle Oil – your new best friend

A good quality oil will help hydrate and nourish dry, rigid nails. Look for jojoba or vitamin E-based oils and apply 2 - 3 times a day. It only takes a few seconds but makes a world of difference.

3. Nail File, Don’t Clip

Use a fine grit 240 nail file instead of clippers to help reduce jagged edges and prevents micro tears that lead to splits.

4. Wear Gloves for Chores

Harsh chemicals and water are a nightmare for brittle nails. Wearing gloves when washing up, gardening or cleaning is a small step that gives big results.

5. Ditch Harsh Polish Removers

Avoid acetone-heavy removers unless absolutely necessary. Go for gentler, nourishing options to avoid further drying the nails.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re tired of your nails constantly splitting and just want to feel proud of your hands again, book in for a nail health consultation or an IBX nail repair treatment with a qualified nail technician. If your nail condition isn’t improving after consistent care or if you are dealing with pain, infection or thickening then speak to a GP or dermatologist. Some nail changes can be a sign of underlying health issues like thyroid conditions, anaemia, or eczema so always check in with your doctor if you are unsure.