Several factors can contribute to nail fragility. These include:

1. Physical or Chemical Trauma

Every day habits can damage the nail plate and strip its protective layers:

Using nails as tools to open containers or scratch surfaces
Frequent wetting and drying of hands (e.g., hand washing or cleaning)
Extreme temperatures—cold weather or dry indoor heat
Repeated exposure to chemicals like cement, detergents, nail polish removers, nail hardeners, hand sanitizers, acids, and alkalis

These factors can degrade the natural cement between nail cells, making them dry and weak.

2. Overzealous Manicures or Pedicures

Aggressive filing, clipping, or cuticle removal during salon treatments can weaken the nail and make it more prone to infections and breakage.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies

Nails are composed primarily of keratin, a protein. Inadequate intake of:

can impair nail structure. Despite popular belief, calcium deficiency does not cause brittle nails or white spots.

4. Underlying Medical Conditions

Health issues that can lead to brittle nails include:

Anaemia
Thyroid disorders
Diabetes
Poor circulation (e.g., during pregnancy)
Skin conditions such as psoriasis, lichen planus, and alopecia areata

5. Genetic Predisposition

If your parents have always had fragile nails, you may have inherited the tendency. Genetic forms often start early and are usually symmetrical.

6. Ageing

As we age, the moisture content of nails and skin declines, leading to increased dryness and brittleness.