Exactly What To Do If Your Fingernails Won’t Stop Peeling

Every month, we send some of your biggest questions on nutrition, health, and more to our panel of experts to answer. The question, “My weak, soft fingernails are all cracking and peel-y. How can I make my nails stronger?” was answered by Francesca J. Fusco, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. 

Think back eight months—that’s when the nail you see now was first formed. If you had or have a disease or experienced a dietary change, your nails may show the signs: Psoriasis, for example, can cause little dents in the nails, and a zinc deficiency can show up as horizontal white bands. If you think a physical issue could be the cause, see your doctor.