Are you looking for a simple way to support your nails daily? Olivélle’s Nailcare Pen contains a caring formula that helps restore damaged nails. Suitable for those struggling with discoloration, brittleness, or fragile nail structure.
Ugly nails
Ugly nails: causes, treatments, and prevention
Many people struggle with nails that look unhealthy: brittle, discolored, thick, or deformed. These changes can result from habits such as nail biting, but also from conditions like psoriasis or fungal infections. With the right approach, improvement is often possible.
What are ugly nails?
“Ugly” is a broad term. For one person it means brittle nails that break, for another it means discoloration or an irregular shape. Common features include splitting, discoloration, thickening, pitting, detachment of the nail, or visible deformities. The cause usually determines the right solution.
Common causes
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Nail biting or picking at cuticles damages the nail matrix. This leads to irregular growth or thin nails, and infections can develop easily.
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Frequent use of nail polish without a base coat may cause yellow or dull nails. Aggressive removers dry the nails, making them brittle.
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Fungal infections often cause nails to become thickened, discolored, and brittle. This occurs mostly in toenails due to moisture and warmth in shoes. If left untreated, the nail can detach.
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Psoriasis can also affect nails, leading to pitting, white spots, or crumbling. Other skin conditions like eczema or lichen planus can cause similar damage.
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Injuries, such as stubbing or pressure, may deform the nail or cause blue discoloration. Tight shoes often cause this in the big toe.
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Poor nail care plays a major role. Not trimming regularly, filing incorrectly, or frequent exposure to water and cleaning products increases the risk of damage. People with naturally fragile nails are more vulnerable.
What can you do about it?
The first step is to protect your nails. Avoid biting, pulling, harsh filing, or aggressive products. Keep nails short, clean them gently, and care for the cuticles with oil. Nutrition also matters: iron, zinc, protein, and biotin contribute to healthier nails.
If you notice your nails are repeatedly damaged, or if discoloration, thickening, or detachment occurs, it’s wise to use a product that specifically supports recovery. A treatment bottle like the one from Olivélle can help make nails stronger, smoother, and healthier again.
When to see a doctor?
Persistent thickening, abnormal growth, detachment, or extreme brittleness can indicate underlying problems. If you are unsure whether it’s a fungal infection, psoriasis, or another condition, medical evaluation is necessary. This is especially true if you also have other symptoms such as skin rash, fatigue, or pain.
Prevention is better
Wear gloves when doing cleaning work. Cut nails straight across and file them without sawing. Give your nails occasional breaks from polish and care for them daily with a nourishing oil or cream. This helps reduce dryness and discoloration.
In summary
Ugly nails can have many causes, but with care and attention, recovery is often possible. The key lies in protection, nutrition, and consistent maintenance.
