What is a common cause of nail splitting, peeling, and breakage?

A common cause of nail splitting, peeling, and breakage is indeed too much water. When nails are frequently exposed to excessive moisture, they can become overly hydrated, which leads to weakening of their structural integrity. Water can cause the layers of the nail to swell, and upon drying, the loss of moisture can lead to contraction. This repetitive cycle of swelling and drying can create stress on the nails, resulting in their splitting and peeling. Additionally, excessive water exposure often occurs in activities such as frequent hand washing, swimming, or extended exposure to wet environments, which can further exacerbate the issue.

While considerations like chemical exposure, low humidity, and high temperatures also affect nail health, too much water is specifically significant in leading to the mechanical failure of the nail structure. High humidity may benefit nail condition by preventing excessive drying, while low humidity can contribute to dryness but not necessarily the excessive hydration leading to breakage that high water exposure causes. Thus, focusing on moisture management is crucial in nail care to maintain their strength and integrity.