Management of Cosmetic Nail Conditions

Doctor Zoe Dralos presented on the management of various cosmetic nail disorders, covering five common conditions: brittle nails, nail plate thinning, nail splitting, nail ridging, and nail henna allergy. Brittle nails are prevalent, particularly among postmenopausal women, due to dehydration of the nail plate, leading to treatment recommendations that include avoiding excessive washing, maintaining a protein-rich diet, and using moisturizers containing urea or lactic acid. Nail plate thinning often results from the application of gel nails, which can damage the natural nail, hence a suggestion of rotating wear periods to allow recovery was offered. Nail splitting, similar to graying hairs, is treated effectively with a 'tea bag repair' method, while ridging, attributed to aging, can be improved through gentle buffing techniques. Finally, allergic reactions to henna, which involves several chemical compounds, highlight the importance of identifying specific allergens in nail care products. Overall, the talk emphasized non-invasive cosmetic solutions and the importance of maintaining nail health.