Nail discoloration, peeling, or streaking are common, especially among people who frequently get professional manicures or do a lot of hands-on cleaning. But peeling nails can be more than just a nuisance. Sometimes, the health of your nails can really say something about your inner health.

Many people don’t realize how important it is to understand changes in the body, and something as simple as changes in the nails could indicate potential problems going on internally. So being able to recognize changes in the nails and go to the doctor is important .

Below are eight common triggers for peeling nails — and how to avoid them, according to dermatologists:

1. Chemical exposure

Excessive hand washing, chemical solvents or very strong soaps can start to dry out the nail and start to cause peeling.

Soaps and cleansers are designed to remove oils and grease, but in the process they also remove the protective natural oils from the skin and nails.

As a solution, you can wear gloves when handling potentially harsh chemicals and apply petroleum jelly or a moisturizer containing urea after each hand wash.

2. Too little or too much moisture

Although you may think of your nails as something that is naturally dry, they actually contain moisture and need the right amount to stay strong. If you get your hands wet a lot (like when you wash the dishes), you’re just stripping away the moisture or natural oils on your skin and nails and letting them dry out and become a little more brittle. Although it’s a little counterintuitive because you soak them in water, that’s actually one of the things that dehydrates them because then the nail won’t be able to hold as much oil or take in as much water.

The solution: Just like with harsh chemicals, the solution is to wear gloves whenever you need to get your hands wet more than normal and apply a moisturizer after each wash.

3. Injury to the nail

Yes, we are talking about the manicure. Applying acrylic or anything artificial can damage the nail plate and cause peeling, and then any kind of trauma can contribute to this as well as peeling.

The fix: To minimize damage when you get your nails done, ask your manicurist to leave the cuticles in place and not inflate too much. Nyanda says applying a reinforcing topcoat can also help.

4. Nutrient deficiency

The most common anemia, iron deficiency anemia, can cause patients to have peeling nails. So, if a patient has a history of anemia or is experiencing nail changes and other symptoms such as fatigue, they may need to seek an evaluation from their doctor or dermatologist. A doctor can do blood tests to see if you are low in essential nutrients such as iron.

If you have iron deficiency anemia, it’s important to evaluate your diet and focus on food sources of the metal, but a doctor can let you know if supplements are recommended for your situation.

5. Thyroid problem

Women are five to eight times more likely to experience thyroid problems than men. The thyroid affects almost every cell in the body, and if it causes a systemic imbalance, it stands to reason that the nails will be affected. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include dry skin, brittle nails and thinning hair.

The solution: If you’re experiencing a combination of the above problems, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with your doctor to get your thyroid checked.

6. Kidney problem

The kidneys have a very important function in keeping the body functioning in terms of removing any toxins from the body and excreting them, so any problems with the kidneys can eventually cause changes in the nails. Dry skin, low energy levels, increased urination and muscle cramps are among the other signs of kidney disease.

If you have kidney disease, talk to your doctor about lifestyle modifications or medications that can help keep the condition under control.

7. Medicines

Some medications can cause the nails to dry out. If this is the case, your doctor should advise you accordingly.

8. Fungus

Finally, a fungus can be to blame for peeling nails. Fungal nail infection can also cause nail thickening or discoloration that starts at the tip and spreads toward the cuticle, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

To diagnose the fungal infection and find the best treatment, consult your dermatologist.