Nail Care

As we age nails can become brittle and start to split. Brittle nails are characterized by a vertical splitting or separation of the nail plate layers at the distal (free) edge of the nail plate. In most cases, nail splitting and vertical ridges are characteristic of the natural aging process. This nail problem is also the result of overexposure to water and chemical solvents such as household cleaning solutions. As we age, the nail bed's natural flow of oils and moisture is greatly reduced. This oil and moisture is the cement that holds the nail plate layers together and gives the plate its inherent flexibility.

At the first signs of splitting or peeling, re-hydrate the nail plate layers with a good quality cuticle and nail oil (or just use the oils as noted below) that contains Jojoba and Vitamin E as two of the botanical oils. Jojoba oil has a very tiny molecule which can penetrate the nail plate surface, open up the layers and draw the Vitamin E in after it. The molecular structure of Vitamin E is too large to penetrate the nail plate layers or the surface layer of the skin without the benefits of Jojoba oil.

Select high-grade Jojoba oil and Vitamin E. Organic oils boast higher quality and contain the essential oils needed for body repair.

• Apply Jojoba oil to your nail plate and cuticle by placing oil droplets on the nail and massaging it. Jojoba oil helps clear a path for the Vitamin E's absorption and helps condition your nails.
• Coat your nails with Vitamin E.

Treat your nails with Jojoba oil and Vitamin E at least twice daily. If done consistently, this will rehydrate the nail and stop the peeling and splitting in most cases. Consider treating your nails more times a day if you routinely immerse your hands in water. Wear gloves whenever working with household cleaning solutions, and remember: water is considered the 'universal solvent', and is indeed a 'chemical'.