Hirsh Dermatology: Nail Products


		The Basics: Nails are a specialized form of the skin. They are composed of
		the same basic cell types that make of the skin itself (keratinocytes). As time goes on, the nails may be subject to many injuries that can play a role in the way the nail grows. The nails grows from an area called the nail matrix and
		this is what is represented by the white, half moon shaped area close to the cuticle. Damage to the nail matrix can cause irreversible changes to the overall shape of the nail. General advice: Dryness: Many people experience dry, brittle nails. This is often a result of lack of moisture. Similar to the skin, the nails can become brittle if not moisturized regularly. It is a good idea to moistruize your nails in addition to moisturizing your skin. This can be accomplished with regular moisturizers, or those specially formulated to help the nails (see below). Diet: Brittle nails can be a sign of nutritional defeciencies (mostly iron and biotin) and it is a good idea to maintain a well balanced diet to assure healthy, strong nails. Key ingredients to look for: Biotin: A dietary supplement proven to help thicken and strengthen nails Alpha hydroxy acids: Help to moisturize and strengthen nails Dermanail: A great product by Summer Labs that combines key ingredients to help strengthen nails Shop for products to help treat brittle nails