Brittle, Peeling Nails? Here’s What Actually Helps Them Grow Stronger | Dr. Idriss

If your nails keep breaking, peeling, developing ridges or white spots, turning yellow, or refusing to grow past a certain length, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss explains what those nail changes can mean and what actually helps. This dermatologist nail-care guide covers the nail plate, nail bed, matrix, cuticle, nail folds, and hyponychium; vertical ridges (onychorrhexis); Beau's lines after illness or stress; leukonychia and Terry's nails; yellow nails and onychomycosis; brittle or splitting nails; and the daily habits that help protect nails and cuticles. You’ll also learn why biotin is not the automatic answer for weak nails, how high-dose biotin can interfere with some laboratory tests, when iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, protein, or thyroid testing may matter, and why a dermatologist may confirm suspected nail fungus with a KOH preparation, culture, or nail clipping before systemic treatment. This video is educational and does not replace individualized medical care. New, painful, rapidly changing, dark, thickened, lifting, or persistently discolored nails should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional. CHAPTERS 0:00 Why do nails break, peel, yellow, or grow slowly? 0:59 Nail anatomy: plate, bed, matrix, cuticle, and folds 3:53 What can nail changes reveal about your health? 4:08 What causes vertical nail ridges and onychorrhexis? 5:09 What are Beau's lines after illness or stress? 6:24 What do white spots and leukonychia mean? 8:48 Why d