It is a sign that we are not always paying attention to. And yet, when the nails become soft, streaked, brittle, or that they move easily, it is not only a question of hygiene or manicure. Stress may well be the invisible culprit.
Why stress makes nails more fragile
When it becomes chronic, stress disturbs several functions of the body: it slows blood circulation, promotes nutritional deficiencies (especially iron, zinc, calcium or biotin), and disrupts the production of keratin, the main component of the nails.
Certain horizontal streaks or recurrent breaks may be discreet witnesses of prolonged stress. In parallel, the behaviors induced such as nailing or repeated manicures aggravate the situation by traumatizing the nail matrix.
The result is clear: soft, dry nails, which break easily, crack or crumble. These are the visible signs of an internal imbalance that must be treated at the source.
Good gestures to strengthen your nails … and reduce the impact of stress
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Bet on a varied diet, rich in protein, iron, zinc, calcium and biotin (vitamin B8). These nutrients are essential to the solidity of the nail.
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Hydrate your nails and cuticles every day with natural oils such as castor oil, sweet almond or jojoba. A few drops are enough to soften keratin and avoid breaks.
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Avoid unnecessary attacks: gloves for household products, soft files used in one direction, pause between two varnish poses, and no too dry nail cutting.
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Use targeted fortifying treatments (serums or hardened varnishes) enriched with natural active ingredients, to be applied in cure for several weeks.
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Finally, take care of your mental balance: breathing, micro-sests, yoga or simple outdoor walking allow you to mitigate stress … and its visible repercussions.
Sources:
Jean Coutu, Poderm, Alvadiem, Urgo, Brunet.ca, Boticinal, Journal des Femmes, Noovomoi
