Striped, brittle, and split nails

Ridged, brittle, or splitting nails are a sign of weakened nails. Deficiencies, external aggressions, repeated nail polish use, dehydration, aging, or medical treatments can alter the nail’s structure and cause ridges, cracks, splitting, or soft nails.

At PODERM®, we have developed natural strengthening treatments, formulated in Switzerland, to repair the nail fiber, stimulate healthy regrowth, and provide long-lasting protection for fragile nails—without damaging them.

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How to recognize ridged, brittle or splitting nails?

A weakened, ridged, or brittle nail may present with:

  • vertical or horizontal striations
  • a doubling along the length
  • frequent breakage
  • a soft, thin, or uneven nail
  • a dull or rough surface

These signs indicate a keratin imbalance and a loss of natural protection. To learn more, see our dedicated articles:

What routine should I adopt to repair brittle nails?

An effective routine is based on 3 key steps:

  • Repair and nourish the nail deeply
  • Strengthen keratin and prevent breakage
  • Protect your nails every day, with or without color.

The Ridged & Brittle Nail Serum, enriched with plant keratin, is the ideal solution to restore strength and smooth ridges and irregularities of the nail.

What treatment should be used for brittle, ridged or splitting nails?

When nails lack nourishment, they become brittle and break down. Our serum for brittle and ridged nails:

  • Nourishes and strengthens the nail matrix
  • Helps smooth out ridges
  • Promotes stronger regrowth

Apply daily to restore nail quality.

How to strengthen soft or very fragile nails?

Soft nails are often linked to a keratin deficiency or repeated damage. Our Keratin Duo for soft and brittle nails:

  • Strengthens the nail structure
  • Help to prevent duplication
  • Supports denser and stronger regrowth

We recommend its use as a treatment for very brittle nails.

Can you wear nail polish if you have fragile nails?

Yes, provided that you useTreating varnisheswhich protect and strengthen the nail, like our color strong hardening nail polishes which:

  • Strengthens the nail with each application
  • Protects against breakage
  • Brings aelegant color finish  

Our nail polishes can be used alone or in combination with a serum.

Should you use a base coat if you have fragile nails?

Yes, the base coat protects the nail and optimizes the effectiveness of the polish. Our color-strong hardening base coat:

  • Protects the nail surface
  • Improves varnish adhesion
  • Strengthens the fit and resistance

What is the purpose of a top coat on brittle nails?

The top coat acts as aprotective shield. Our color strong top coat:

  • Extends the wear of nail polish
  • Protects against impacts
  • Provides shine and protection

How long does it take to see results?

Nail regrowth is gradual. On average:

  • 2 to 4 weeks: smoother and less brittle nails
  • 6 to 8 weeks: visible improvement in quality
  • Several months: complete and strengthened regrowth

Consistency is essential for visible and lasting results.

Are PODERM® products suitable for sensitive nails?

Yes, PODERM® products are suitable for sensitive nails thanks to their gentle and targeted formulas. The Silicon Fragile Nail Serum is particularly recommended: it strengthens, repairs, and protects weakened nails (especially after treatments such as chemotherapy), while respecting their sensitivity.

Which routine should I choose depending on the condition of my nails?

Here are our recommendations:

  • Ridged or dull nails: Serum for ridged, brittle nails + Color Strong nail polish
  • Soft, brittle, splitting nails: Keratin duo + base coat + top coat
  • Fragile nails craving color: Base coat + strong color polish + top coat

Our top tips for healthy nails

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To restore the strength and resilience of weakened nails, using a strengthening nail serum is essential. Brittle nails can be caused by various factors such as dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, excessive exposure to chemicals, or inappropriate nail care habits.

A strengthening nail serum is specifically designed to fortify the structure of fragile nails. Enriched with key ingredients like silicon, it supports collagen production, improving the strength and resistance of the nails. Regularly incorporating a strengthening nail serum into your care routine can significantly reduce breakage and prevent splitting.

In addition to silicon, these serums nourish and hydrate the nails and cuticles, preventing dryness and future damage. By applying a strengthening nail serum consistently, you not only enhance your nails but also contribute to their long-term health.

Combined with a balanced diet and proper nail hygiene, a strengthening nail serum promotes effective and lasting healing, ensuring stronger and healthier nails.

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