Brittle fingernails are a common condition, occurring more in women than in men.Nails break or peel off in horizontal layers, starting at the free end.These are caused by trauma, repeated exposure to detergents and water, excessive exposure to harsh solvents, such as those found in nail polish remover. These are also caused by medical conditions--- Raynaud's disease,hypothyroidism, skin diseases (psoriasis, lichen planus), Sjogren's syndrome and malnutrition & Selenium poisoning.
Treatments include treating the cause, multivitamins containing Silicon, zinc, Iron & Vitamin A.
Get your hormonal profile checked & watch for avoiding nail trauma.