Question

If a child’s nails crack, do they need medical treatment? How long will it take to see improvement after treatment? Please provide relevant assistance.

Answer

When a child’s nails crack, it’s important to first investigate the cause: it could be due to prolonged exposure to moisture; insufficient intake of protein, calcium, sulfur, zinc, or vitamins A, B, C in the diet; chronic diseases or emotional stress; oral contraceptives; or nails being subjected to sanding or the use of abrasive agents. For different causes, the following corrective methods can be adopted: every night, soak your fingers in a diluted vinegar solution, which is an effective way to prevent nails from cracking easily. Applying white iodine to the top of the nail and below the nail tip not only restores the nail’s elasticity and strength but also prevents the nail from peeling and breaking.