If you suffer from dry, brittle nails, try hydrating them with a few drops of cuticle oil. Cuticle oil delivers a shot of moisture, vitamins and plant extracts directly to your fingernails, so they'll look shiny and healthy almost instantly after application. It's best to apply cuticle oil daily for consistent results.

Split fingernails are usually caused by environmental hazards, such as prolonged exposure to water or trauma, according to the Better Health Channel. Though not often a primary cause, a vitamin deficiency may also be to blame.

Decreased thyroid production can lead to brittle nails. Women who are over 50 have the highest risk of developing thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, or symptoms might be subtle or easily blamed on another factor, the Mayo Clinic advises.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the nails are composed of laminated layers of a protein called keratin. This same protein is also found in the hair and skin. The nails are made up of several parts, including the nail beds, folds, cuticles and lunula.

Many women head to the salon for artificial nails for their convenience and beauty. The process requires a manicurist to apply artificial nail tips, using both a liquid and powder acrylic to bond the tips to your natural nails.

Brittle toenails occur when nails are not properly nourished or cared for. Improper nail care practice can weaken the nail bed and invite fungal infection. Preventative measures including cleanliness, adequate nutrition and wearing well-fitting shoes will keep you from having to cure brittle nails.

Having beautiful nails, as with anything else worth having, comes with a price. Changing nail polish requires using nail polish remover, which often contains acetone. According to Paul Bryson, co-director of research and Development at O.P.I., "

Your fingernails and hair can give a good indication of your overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, your nails are made of protein, and poor nutritional habits or illness that impairs nutrient absorption can cause nails to look unhealthy and become brittle.

Thickened yellow nails are usually a side effect of toenail fungus. Toenail fungus settles in the sensitive skin under the toenail and causes brittleness, thickness and discolortion of the toenail itself.

Daily wear and tear can really take a toll on the luster of your fingernails. With monthly buffing and a little spit and polish -- minus the spit -- you can restore their natural sheen.

Cuticles work hard: They protect the sensitive space between where your skin ends and your fingernail begins from damage and infection. Because the skin here is so delicate, it's easy for it to become dry and damaged, leading to cracking, peeling and ripping that is uncomfortable and unattractive.

There's nothing like a fresh pedicure, but waiting for it to dry can be a pain. You have to be careful not to bump your toes into anything lest you destroy your meticulously-painted nails. You also have to have the patience to wait for your nails to dry.