They are such disparate materials, that few people realize their fingernails and the hair on their head, are made from the same protein building blocks. That doesn't mean that one is as tough as the other, or that they should be treated the same. What it does indicate, is that when there is a fluctuation in the protein levels in your body, it can often show itself in the fingernails and hair.

For example, exposure to weather extremes or chemicals in hair dyes and dish soaps, can affect both in the same way. Fingernails are actually more porous than skin, and can become easily chapped and irritated. Hair shafts are robbed of their natural oils by frequent shampooing, and can be damaged by the heat of dryers and curling irons.

Compromising the strength of your nails or hair through rough treatment, e.g. banging nails as you work, using them as tools, subjecting hair to rigid styling, or hair dressing chemicals, can all contribute to breakage.

Ailments or disorders in the body, can also show themselves through changes to the fingernails and hair. Pale nail beds may mean a lack of iron in the blood. Horizontal ridges can also develop during an illness or period of high fever. Hair that is excessively dry and appears to be shedding more than normal, often owes its problems to stress or hormone levels.

Drinking plain gelatin has often been touted as a way to strengthen nails, when in fact, it has nothing to do with the structure of the nail. There are no miracle substances to guarantee gorgeous hair, either. But a healthy diet, with plenty of water, supplemented with B complex vitamins when necessary, can put strength back in both.