Why do nails get soft when we keep them immersed in water?

Since, our nails are made by keratanocytes layer and when immersed in water due to the process of diffusion the keratanocytes swells up due to which nails become a bit softer.. read more

The two conditions together are referred to as"brittle nail syndrome". There are many causes of weak brittle nails ranging from benign to more serious. The most common cause is frequent exposure to water as in washing dishes, cleaning, swimming, etc. as the process of wetting and drying causes the nails to become brittle. read more

Medically referred to as hapalonychia, a soft nails can be the result of too much water being retained in the nail. Soft nails are linked with a few medical conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Soft nails caused by conditions of skin inflammation generally start at the base of the nail bed and work their way up. read more

There are many microscopic channels that make it easy for the nail plate to absorb large quantities of water. A normal nail plate can hold 1/3rd it’s own weight in water! Water is able to pass BETWEEN the keratin cells but also THROUGH the flattened cells. Nails that have been soaking in water become overly soft, overly flexible and tear easily. read more