Frequent handwashing, exposure to soap, or working with cleaning products without gloves can make this dryness worse over time.
3. Nutrient Deficiencies
Another common factor is lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially:
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Iron
Zinc
Magnesium
As we age, our bodies don’t absorb nutrients as efficiently. That means even if you’re eating well, you might still fall short in certain areas — and your nails could be one of the first places to show it.
If you’ve also been experiencing fatigue, thinning hair, or slow healing, it might be worth speaking to your doctor about possible deficiencies.
4. Underlying Health Conditions
In rarer cases, pronounced vertical ridges could be a sign of a health issue that needs attention. Some possible causes include:
Poor circulation
Thyroid imbalances (both underactive and overactive)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
If nail ridges are accompanied by other unusual symptoms — such as joint pain, changes in skin texture, or unexplained fatigue — it’s best to have it checked by a healthcare professional.
When to See a Doctor
Although vertical ridges are typically harmless, there are times when they could signal something more serious. You should seek medical attention if your nail ridges are accompanied by:
Dark brown or black streaks underneath the nail
Nail splitting, thickening, or peeling
Redness, pain, or swelling around the nail bed
These may point to a fungal infection, injury, or — in rare cases — a form of skin cancer called melanoma, which can develop under the nail.
Early detection matters, so never ignore a sudden or dramatic change in your nail’s appearance.
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