What can cause onychorrhexis?

• A. Improper nail filing
• B. Excessive use of cuticle removers
• C. Frequent application of nail polish
• D. Lack of hydration

Answer: (B)

Onychorrhexis refers to the condition characterized by brittle nails that show lengthwise ridges and are prone to splitting and breaking. The correct answer highlights excessive use of cuticle removers as a contributing factor to onychorrhexis.

Cuticle removers often contain strong chemicals that can strip the nails and surrounding tissue of their natural oils and moisture. Over time, this chemical exposure weakens the nail structure, making it more susceptible to brittleness and damage. The important aspect to understand is that while cuticle removers serve a purpose in nail care, their overuse can lead to significant harm to the overall health and integrity of the nails.

While other options may contribute to nail issues, they do not directly correlate with the specific condition of onychorrhexis as strongly as excessive cuticle remover usage does. For example, improper nail filing can lead to other types of damage like splits or tears, but it does not specifically cause the brittle appearance and structure changes characteristic of onychorrhexis. Similarly, frequent application of nail polish or lack of hydration can affect nail health overall but are not as directly connected to the brittleness and specific symptoms observed in onychorrhexis as the overuse of cuticle removers.