Soft Fingernails - Rare Disorders Message Board

Minx · 08-25-2003, 06:00 AM

Since I was young I've had this problem with my fingernails that I've yet to see on anyone else. My thumb and pinky fingernails seem to grow just fine. The 3 fingers in between start to grow and curl over the end of my fingers. It's extremely irritating as I've always wanted to have long nails. I asked the doctor about it and he doesn't have an answer to this. My hands look strange with only two long nails on each finger.

It would be nice if someone could suggest a possible solution to this problem that I might try to strengthen them. I've tried lots of the nail fortifier/strengtheners that are made by the makeup companies and nothing seems to work.

Minx

zuzu8 · 09-05-2003, 02:31 PM

Hi- You might want to make sure you are getting enough Biotin in your diet.

This is a water soluble B-vitamin. Diets rich in biotin help to support the matrix of the hair, skin and nails. The percent daily value recommended for biotin is 300 mcg. Egg yolks, soybeans and fish are significant sources.

If this problem is really bothering you, see a dermatologist (not your regular doctor)..(skin, and nail health are interwined.) And discuss a Biotin supplement.

I know there have been many clinical studies with Biotin and the results for soft or brittle nails are reported to be excellent.. But I don't know how much you should take...a dermatologist will.

Good luck,

zuzu xx

oceandreams · 09-12-2003, 04:58 PM

Silica is also excellent for nails (and is also good for bones and hair). You could try one of the 'Hair, Skin, & Nails' supplements, as it would have both biotin and silica in it. I've also read that an iron deficiency can cause thin nails.