Navigating Nail Deformities
Nail health reflects our overall health, but sometimes unexpected changes can occur in your nails for no apparent reason. Some of these may be noticed as a staple-like appearance, but in others, the normally curved nail begins to grow square.
We investigate the unique condition known as “staple nail” and its possible causes, and suggest ways to manage and potentially improve this nail phenomenon.
Staple nail phenomenon
This condition is characterized by a square-fronted nail plate that looks a lot like an office staple. This change may start subtly in one of his nails, but other nails may or may not be affected as well. This is a noticeable change and can leave many people confused about the health of their nails.
Root cause of staple nails
Several factors can contribute to the development of staple nails, and understanding these is key to managing the condition.
Psoriasis and nail changes
Psoriasis is a common skin disease that can also affect the nails and nail beds, causing various changes such as squared nail plates. This occurs when the nail bed swells and puts extreme pressure on the nail plate, causing it to become deformed.
decreased blood supply
Another possible cause of stapled nails is damage to the blood supply to the nail matrix. When blood supply is compromised, nail plate cells can become weak. These weakened cells can cause the nail plate to buckle, forming squared corners instead of the normal rounded edges.
Aging and nail cell formation
As we age, the formation of nail plate cells changes, making them weaker and more prone to buckling under pressure. This change greatly contributes to the appearance of staple nails and highlights the impact that aging has on nail health.
Practical advice on staple nails
To effectively manage this condition, it is important to keep your nails flexible and well-moisturized. Regular use of a high-quality nail and skin oil will help maintain nail flexibility and prevent nail plate breakage, especially at the free edge. For those looking for an oil alternative, use a rinse solution with moisturizing ingredients like allantoin or urea several times a day to help retain moisture and prevent dryness, which can make the problem worse. .
When using artificial nail products, it is also important to choose the right type of artificial nail product. Choose a flexible soak-off product to minimize the risk of further damage to the nail plate during removal.
Final Thoughts: Managing Nail Health During Change
Staple nails can be an unusual and unexpected nail condition, but with proper care and attention to nail health, it is possible to deal with this problem. Keeping nails short, flexible, moisturized, and avoiding harsh treatments can help reduce the effects of staple nails.
As always, if nail problems persist, we recommend consulting a medical or dermatological professional to rule out underlying conditions that may require special treatment.
