What is called when the nail is split or brittle?

The term that describes a condition where the nail is split or brittle is onychororrhexis. This condition is characterized by the longitudinal splitting or brittleness of the nails, which can be caused by various factors such as excessive exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or nutritional deficiencies. In practice, understanding this terminology is essential for recognizing nail health issues and addressing client concerns effectively in a salon or clinical setting.

In contrast, other options refer to different conditions: tinea manis is a fungal infection of the hands or nails; onychorryptosis refers to the ingrowth of a nail, commonly known as an ingrown toenail; and pterygium is a condition involving the abnormal growth of tissue on the nail. Knowing the distinctions between these terms can assist future estheticians in providing precise treatments and communicating accurately about nail conditions.