What can excessive exposure to water do to nails?

Excessive exposure to water can indeed cause nails to become soft and more prone to breakage. When nails are frequently submerged in water, they can absorb moisture, leading to an increase in flexibility and a decrease in strength. This is particularly significant because while moist nails may feel more pliable, they lose their firmness and structural integrity, making them more susceptible to bending, splitting, or breaking.

Nails are composed of keratin, a protein that retains moisture, but when overexposed to water, the keratin fibers can swell and disrupt the natural balance. This prolonged condition weakens the nails over time, illustrating the importance of maintaining a proper moisture level and avoiding excessive wetness to ensure that nails remain healthy and resilient.