The effect of fasting on nail health during the month of Ramadan

During Ramadan, it's not just your skin that needs care—your nails do too! Fasting for long hours can make them weaker, prone to breakage, or even turn yellow due to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals. That’s why, , we’re sharing an easy and simple routine to keep your nails healthy and strong throughout the holy month. With simple steps you can do at home, you’ll be able to maintain strong, healthy, and well-groomed nails during Ramadan, even if you’re spending more time indoors.

How Does Long Fasting Affect Nail Health?

Fasting can impact nail health if your diet is unbalanced and lacks the necessary nutrients. Just like the rest of your body, your nails need vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy. A deficiency in any key nutrient can lead to weak, brittle, and dry nails.

1. Weak and Brittle Nails

If your diet during Ramadan lacks essential nutrients, your nails may become weak and prone to breakage. The key nutrients for strong nails include:

Biotin (Vitamin B7): Found in eggs, nuts, and legumes, it helps strengthen nails.
Iron: A deficiency can cause weak nails with white spots. It’s found in spinach, liver, and red meat.
Protein: Since nails are made of keratin, protein is crucial for their health. Good sources include meat, eggs, and dairy products.

2. Nail Dryness and Discoloration

Not drinking enough water during fasting hours can cause nail dryness and make them look dull or slightly yellow. To keep them hydrated:

Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor (at least 8–10 glasses).
Eat foods rich in Omega-3, such as nuts and fish, to maintain nail moisture.

3. Slow Nail Growth

A deficiency in zinc and calcium can slow down nail growth and make them fragile. To boost nail growth:

Increase your calcium intake with milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Eat zinc-rich foods like meat, whole grains, and nuts.

4. Nail Ridges or Cracks

If you notice ridges or cracks on your nails, this may indicate a Vitamin A and E deficiency, as these vitamins play a key role in strengthening nails and preventing dryness and breakage.

Best Nail Care Tips During Fasting Hours

During Ramadan, nails can become dry and weak due to reduced water intake and nutritional imbalances. To keep them strong and healthy while fasting, follow these essential tips:

1. Stay Hydrated After Iftar

Water is essential for keeping nails moisturized and preventing dryness. Aim to drink 8–10 glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor to compensate for fluid loss during fasting.

2. Maintain a Balanced Diet for Strong Nails

Nails need proper nutrition to grow strong. Ensure your diet includes:

Protein: Found in eggs, meat, and dairy, it strengthens nails and prevents breakage.
Iron: Found in spinach, liver, and apples, it prevents white spots and nail weakness.
Biotin (Vitamin B7): Found in nuts and eggs, it helps nails grow faster.
Calcium: Found in milk and yogurt, it maintains nail health and prevents brittleness.

3. Moisturize Your Nails and Cuticles

Apply sweet almond oil or olive oil to your nails before bed and massage them well to keep them hydrated. You can also use a hand cream with glycerin or Vitamin E to protect against dryness.

4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Limit the use of nail polish and strong removers that contain acetone, as they can weaken and dry out your nails. Instead, use an acetone-free nail polish remover when necessary.

5. Trim and File Your Nails Properly

Trim your nails weekly to prevent breakage.
Use a gentle nail file and always file in one direction to avoid weakening them.

6. Avoid Biting or Pressuring Your Nails

If you have a habit of biting your nails, try to stop as it weakens them and increases the risk of infection.
Avoid using your nails to open cans or peel hard objects to prevent breakage.

7. Take Supplements If Needed

If your nails remain weak despite a good diet, you may have a vitamin deficiency. Consult a nutritionist to determine if you need supplements containing biotin, zinc, or calcium.

8. Keep Your Hands Moisturized

Nail health is closely linked to hand hydration. Always apply a hand cream after washing your hands or before bedtime to maintain nail strength.

By following these simple steps, you can maintain strong and healthy nails throughout Ramadan, ensuring they grow faster and remain problem-free!

Types of Nails by Shape

1. Square Nails

Have straight edges and a flat tip.
Suitable for strong nails and offer an elegant, classic look.

2. Oval Nails

Have rounded and soft edges.
Provide a feminine look and are ideal for weak nails as they reduce breakage risk.

3. Almond Nails

Slightly pointed at the tip, resembling an almond shape.
Give a refined look and suit short fingers by making them appear longer.

4. Round Nails

Short with soft, rounded edges.
Perfect for people with weak or brittle nails as they are less prone to breaking.

5. Ballerina (Coffin) Nails

Long with straight sides and a flat tip.
A trendy and bold choice for a stylish look.

6. Stiletto Nails

Very long and sharply pointed at the tip.
Popular for bold and dramatic nail designs.

Types of Nails by Health Condition

1. Strong Nails

Hard and smooth, indicating good nutrition and overall health.

2. Brittle and Weak Nails

Break easily and feel fragile, often due to vitamin deficiencies or exposure to harsh chemicals like acetone.

3. Ridged Nails

Have vertical or horizontal lines, which may be caused by aging or a lack of essential minerals.

4. Yellow Nails

Can result from smoking, prolonged use of dark nail polish, or sometimes indicate a fungal infection.

5. Pitted Nails

Have small dents or pits, often linked to conditions like psoriasis.

6. Spoon Nails

Curved inward like a spoon, which may signal iron deficiency (anemia).

7. Blue Nails

May indicate a lack of oxygen in the body or circulation problems.

Why Should You Moisturize Your Nails During Ramadan?

1. Protects Nails from Dryness and Breakage

When your body doesn’t get enough water throughout the day, your nails can become dry and brittle. Daily moisturizing with natural oils or rich creams helps keep them soft and prevents breakage.

2. Strengthens Nails and Promotes Healthy Growth

Dry nails are weak and prone to breaking. Keeping them moisturized ensures they remain strong and grow faster in a healthy way.

3. Prevents Skin Cracks Around the Nails

The skin around your nails can become dry and peel, leading to painful inflammation. Regular moisturizing keeps the surrounding skin soft and healthy.

4. Gives Nails a Healthy and Shiny Look

Dry nails often appear dull and lifeless, but proper hydration enhances their natural shine, making them look elegant and beautiful even without nail polish.

How to Moisturize Your Nails Properly?

✔ Use Natural Oils: Almond oil, coconut oil, and olive oil are some of the best natural moisturizers for nails. Massage your nails with these oils before bedtime to nourish and protect them from dryness.

✔ Choose a Cream Rich in Glycerin or Vitamin E: Creams with these ingredients deeply hydrate the nails and maintain their health.

✔ Drink Enough Water After Iftar: Hydration isn’t just external—your body needs 8-10 glasses of water between Maghrib and Fajr to replenish lost fluids and maintain nail health.

✔ Limit the Use of Acetone: Nail polish removers containing acetone cause severe dryness. Try using gentler removers or reducing nail polish application during Ramadan.

✔ Wear Gloves While Washing Dishes: Soaps and detergents strip moisture from your nails, so protect them with gloves and apply a moisturizing cream afterward.

Quick Nighttime Nail Moisturizing Routine

Apply a drop of almond or olive oil to each nail.
Massage your nails and the surrounding skin for two minutes.
Use a rich hand cream for overall hydration.
4️⃣ If your nails are extremely dry, wear cotton gloves before bed to lock in moisture for a longer period.

Best Oils for Stronger Nails

If your nails are weak, break easily, or look dull, then natural oils are the perfect solution! These oils not only strengthen your nails but also nourish them, moisturize the surrounding skin, and protect them from dryness and breakage—especially during Ramadan when water intake is lower. Let’s explore the best oils to keep your nails strong and healthy!

Sweet Almond Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamin E and magnesium, which nourish the nails, strengthen them, and prevent breakage. It also keeps the surrounding skin soft and hydrated.

How to use it:

Massage each nail with a drop of warm almond oil for two minutes.
Leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight for better absorption.
Repeat twice daily if your nails are very weak.

Olive Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Olive oil contains fatty acids and antioxidants that strengthen the nails from the roots and prevent dryness and splitting.

How to use it:

Warm a small amount of olive oil (it should be warm, not too hot).
Soak your nails in it for 10–15 minutes.
You can also massage the oil into your nails and the surrounding skin.
Repeat 3 times a week for strong and shiny nails.

Coconut Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Coconut oil is a powerful moisturizer that prevents nail breakage and protects against fungal infections that can weaken the nails.

How to use it:

Massage your nails with coconut oil before bed.
If you have dry skin around your nails, apply more and leave it overnight.
Use daily if your nails break easily.

Castor Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Castor oil is known for its ability to strengthen nails and promote faster growth as it is rich in proteins and fatty acids.

How to use it:

Mix ½ teaspoon of castor oil with ½ teaspoon of olive oil.
Massage the mixture onto your nails daily before bed.
Repeat twice a week for noticeably stronger and longer nails.

Lemon Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Lemon oil strengthens nails and helps brighten their color if they are yellow or dull. It also protects against fungi and bacteria that weaken them.

How to use it:

Mix 2 drops of lemon oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
Massage your nails with the mixture twice a week.
Note: Avoid sun exposure after using lemon oil to prevent skin darkening.

Tea Tree Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Tea tree oil is highly effective in treating fungal infections and inflammations that cause nail weakness. It also strengthens nails and keeps them healthy.

How to use it:

Mix 1 drop of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
Apply it to your nails and leave it for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Use it 3 times a week if you have fungal infections or extremely weak nails.

Moroccan Argan Oil

Why is it beneficial?
Argan oil is full of vitamins and fatty acids that strengthen nails, making them flexible and less brittle. It also treats splitting and dryness quickly.

How to use it:

Apply a drop of argan oil to each nail and massage well.
Use it every night before bed if your nails are very weak.

Extra Tips for Strong and Healthy Nails:

Drink plenty of water because dehydration weakens nails.
Avoid excessive use of acetone, as it makes nails brittle and prone to breaking.
Eat foods rich in biotin (vitamin B7), such as eggs, nuts, and spinach, to help strengthen your nails.
Wear gloves while using cleaning products to protect your nails from harsh chemicals.

Use any of these oils daily, and you’ll notice a big difference in your nail health in no time!

How to Trim Your Nails Properly

Trimming your nails correctly not only keeps them looking neat but also prevents breakage, splitting, and infections that can occur if done incorrectly. Let’s go through the right way to trim your nails to keep them strong and healthy!

1. Prepare Your Tools First

Before you start trimming, make sure you have the right, clean tools to avoid infections or nail problems:
✔ Sharp and clean nail clippers.
✔ A gentle nail file (preferably glass or crystal for a smooth finish).
✔ Warm water and soap (for soaking if your nails are too dry).
✔ Nail oil or moisturizer for hydration after trimming.

2. Trim Your Nails at the Right Time

The best time to trim your nails is after a shower when they are soft and easier to cut. If trimming at another time, soak your hands in warm water for 5 minutes to soften the nails.

3. Choose Your Preferred Nail Shape

Square: Ideal for strong nails, helps prevent breakage.
Round: Best if your nails break easily.
Almond or Oval: Gives a feminine and elegant look.
Squoval (Square-Rounded): A mix of square and round, practical and stylish.

Tip: Avoid cutting your nails too short to prevent pain or infections. Leave a small part of the white tip.

4. Trim Your Nails Properly ✂️

Don’t cut your nails in one big clip! This can cause cracks and breakage.
✔ Use clippers to trim your nails in small sections instead of cutting all at once.
✔ Hold the clippers at a 45-degree angle and cut gently in small steps.
✔ Avoid cutting too close to the skin to prevent injuries.

5. File Your Nails the Right Way

Don’t file your nails in a back-and-forth motion! This weakens them and makes them prone to breaking.
✔ Always file in one direction to maintain nail strength.
✔ If using a metal file, be extra gentle. A glass or crystal file is a better choice.
✔ Smooth out the edges to prevent snags on clothes or accidental breakage.

6. Moisturize After Trimming

After trimming and filing, it’s essential to moisturize your nails to prevent dryness and breakage. Use:
✔ Sweet almond oil or coconut oil to nourish your nails and surrounding skin.
✔ A moisturizer or petroleum jelly if your nails are very dry.
✔ Massage the oil or cream into your nails for two minutes for better absorption.

7. Avoid Habits That Weaken Your Nails

Don’t cut the skin around your nails—it protects against bacteria.
Avoid biting your nails, as it weakens them and causes infections.
Limit acetone use, as it dries out your nails and makes them brittle.
Don’t cut too close to the nail bed to avoid pain or infections.

By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your nails looking beautiful, strong, and healthy!

Additional Tips to Keep Your Nails Strong and Beautiful

✔ Trim your nails every two weeks to maintain their shape and health.
✔ Wear kitchen gloves when using strong cleaning products to protect your nails.
✔ Drink plenty of water to prevent nail dryness.
✔ Eat foods rich in biotin (Vitamin B7) like nuts, eggs, and spinach to strengthen your nails.

By following these steps, your nails will always be healthy, strong, and beautiful!

The Importance of Dietary Supplements for Nail Health

If your nails break easily, are weak, or brittle, it means they need internal care before external treatments! A balanced diet is key to nail health, but sometimes your body needs extra supplements to compensate for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Let’s explore the top supplements that strengthen nails and why you should include them in your routine!

1. Biotin (Vitamin B7) – "The Beauty Vitamin"

???? Why is it important?
✔ Boosts keratin production, the main protein that strengthens nails.
✔ Reduces brittleness and breakage, making nails longer and stronger over time.
✔ Promotes faster, smoother nail growth.

Sources: Avocado, nuts (almonds, walnuts), eggs, bananas.
Supplement dose: 2,500 – 5,000 mcg daily.

2. Iron – The Solution for Weak & Pale Nails

Why is it important?
✔ Iron deficiency can cause weak, brittle, and ridged nails.
✔ If your nails break easily or look pale, you might have an iron deficiency.
✔ Helps transport oxygen to the nails, which is essential for their healthy growth.

Sources: Red meat, spinach, dark chocolate, lentils.
Supplement dose: 18-27 mg daily (consult your doctor before taking it).

3. Zinc – Protection Against Cracks & Peeling

Why is it important?
✔ Promotes nail growth and helps in cell renewal.
✔ Prevents white spots or cracks that appear due to nutritional deficiencies.
✔ Also benefits skin and hair health.

Sources: Meat, nuts, seafood, whole grains.
Supplement dose: 8-11 mg daily.

4. Vitamin E – The Secret to Hydration & Shine

Why is it important?
✔ A powerful antioxidant that protects nails from dryness and brittleness.
✔ Maintains moisture levels, preventing cracking of the surrounding skin.
✔ Improves blood circulation, leading to faster and healthier nail growth.

Sources: Avocado, nuts, sunflower oil, fatty fish.
Supplement dose: 15 mg daily.

5. Calcium – The Foundation of Strong Nails

Why is it important?
✔ Supports nail hardness and strength.
✔ If your nails are brittle and break easily, you may have a calcium deficiency.

Sources: Milk, cheese, yogurt.
Supplement dose: 500-1000 mg daily (with Vitamin D for better absorption).

6. Omega-3 – For Hydration & Flexibility

Why is it important?
✔ Moisturizes nails and prevents dryness and cracking.
✔ Provides natural flexibility to prevent breakage.

Sources: Salmon, avocado, walnuts, chia & flaxseeds.
Supplement dose: 1000-2000 mg daily.

How to Choose the Right Supplements for Your Nails

✔ If your nails are weak & break easily → Take Biotin & Zinc.
✔ If your nails are pale & don’t grow well → Increase Iron.
✔ If you have dry, cracked nails → Use Vitamin E & Omega-3.
✔ If you suffer from nail splitting → Ensure you get Calcium & Vitamin D.

Important Tip: Always consult a doctor before taking any supplements to ensure they are suitable for your body and needs.

By maintaining a healthy diet and proper nail care routine, you’ll achieve beautiful, strong nails naturally! ????

Best Ways to Protect Your Nails from Breaking During Ramadan

During Ramadan, due to changes in diet and prolonged fasting, our nails can become weaker, brittle, and more prone to breakage. That’s why it’s essential to take care of them and give them the nourishment they need to stay strong and healthy throughout the month.

Let’s explore the best tips to keep your nails from breaking during Ramadan!

Drink Enough Water

Dehydration is the number one enemy of healthy nails. In Ramadan, due to reduced water intake, we are more prone to dehydration, which can make nails weak, brittle, and prone to cracking.

Solution:

Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily between Iftar and Suhoor.
Add detox drinks like water with lemon and cucumber to keep your body and nails hydrated.
Reduce dehydrating beverages like excessive coffee and tea.

Eat a Nail-Friendly Diet

Nails need specific vitamins and minerals to stay strong and prevent breakage. If your diet lacks these essential nutrients, your nails may become weaker.

What should you focus on?

Biotin (Vitamin B7): Found in eggs, almonds, avocado, and oats.
Iron: Found in spinach, lentils, and red meat.
Zinc: Found in nuts, seeds, and fish.
Calcium & Vitamin D: Found in milk, yogurt, cheese, and fatty fish.
Omega-3: Found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds.

Use Natural Oils to Moisturize Your Nails

Daily moisturizing prevents nails from drying out and breaking, which is especially important during Ramadan.

Best oils for strong nails:

Sweet almond oil → Hydrates and strengthens nails.
Olive oil → Penetrates deep into the nail layers and nourishes them.
Coconut oil → Prevents cracking and protects the surrounding skin.
Castor oil → Helps nails grow faster.

How to use them:

Massage your nails with warm oil (any of the above) before bed and leave it overnight.
If your nails are very weak, soak them in warm olive oil for 10 minutes daily.

Avoid Using Nails as Tools

One of the biggest mistakes we make without realizing it is using our nails for everyday tasks like:

Opening cans and bottles.
Peeling off stickers or opening packages.
Scratching hard surfaces.

Solution:

Use proper tools instead of your nails.
Be gentle with your nails and avoid using them for tasks that may cause breakage.

Limit Nail Polish and Avoid Harsh Acetone-Based Removers

Frequent use of nail polish can weaken nails, especially if you use acetone-based removers, which can dry them out.

Solution:

Use a non-acetone nail polish remover.
If you love wearing nail polish, limit it to only 2-3 days a week and give your nails a break on other days.
Apply a natural nail strengthener to protect your nails from the negative effects of nail polish.

Trim Your Nails Properly ✂️

Incorrect nail trimming can make them weaker and more prone to splitting and breaking.

How to trim your nails correctly?

Use a soft nail file instead of clippers to avoid splitting.
File your nails in one direction only (not back and forth) to prevent weakening.
Maintain a rounded or square-rounded shape, as these are less prone to breakage.

Wear Gloves During Household Chores

Cleaning products and detergents can weaken your nails and affect their health.

Solution:

Wear kitchen gloves while washing dishes or cleaning.
After any household chores, moisturize your nails with a cream or natural oil.

Take Supplements If Needed

If you’re not getting enough vitamins and minerals from your diet, you may consider taking supplements (after consulting a doctor), such as:

Biotin for stronger nails.
Iron if you have weak or pale nails.
Omega-3 to improve nail hydration and prevent splitting.

If you're looking for a specialist for nail problems, the best doctor to visit is a Dermatologist, as they specialize in treating issues related to the skin, hair, and nails.

If your nails are weak due to vitamin deficiencies or poor nutrition, you may also consult a Nutritionist who can help you choose the right diet or supplements for healthier nails.

If you're experiencing pain or severe inflammation, an Internal Medicine doctor might be the right choice to examine you and determine if there is an underlying health condition affecting you