Split Nail from root - Nail Problems Message Board

m21r · 12-03-2005, 02:17 PM

Hello,My thumbnail has a white line across which when it gets to the tip of the nail it splits the nail into two parts. It is not painful and it has been like this for over 3 months now. I am not sure of the cause but I am after a solution please. I can't grow my nails because as soon as they get a few mm long the nail splits.
I have included a picture for your information.
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Many thanks,
Maria

Marti · 12-05-2005, 08:51 AM

The white line is a raised portion of the nail bed rail. The nail plate rides forward on the nail bed by a series of rails and grooves much like a train rides forward on its tracks. the rails are on the nail bed and the grooves are on theunderside of the nail plate. When a rail gets enlarged due to age or from other natural causes. it will force itself up through the nail plate causing it to split into two portions. Sometimes, the rail will cut all the way through the nail plate and permanently split it in two.

You might try conditioning and moisturizing the nail plate with a good quality nail oil such as Solar Oil or Botanical Oil. I have these in my thumbnails as well due to age. the only way I can keep them is to wear an overlay of acrylic or gel on the effected nail.

m21r · 12-11-2005, 09:56 AM

Is this curable? I will try your advice to moisturise the nail, do you think this will cure the problem?

Marti · 12-13-2005, 07:03 PM

Not necessarily - it depends on what is causing it. Onychorrhexis are brittle nails which often split vertically, peel and/or have vertical ridges. This irregularity can be the result of heredity, the use of strong solvents in the workplace or the home, including household cleaning solutions. Although oil or paraffin treatments will re-hydrate the nail plate, one may wish to confer with a physician to rule out disease.

m21r · 12-14-2005, 04:26 PM

I hope it resolves the problem. I am now on my 3rd day on the oil. I always use gloves when cleaning or cooking and I do an office job. I am looking forward to see the results. I will update you in a few weeks time.
Thanks for your time,
Maria