If you’ve noticed those vertical lines showing up on your nails, you’re definitely not alone. Many people experience this, and it can be a bit concerning. Today, we’re going to break down exactly what causes these vertical nail ridges, also known medically as onychorrhexis, and more importantly, what you can do to get smoother, stronger, and healthier nails. (This article is based on the expertise of dermatologist Andrea Suarez, MD, FAAD)
These ridges can be pretty superficial, or sometimes they’re a bit deeper. They might show up on their own, or you might notice other nail changes along with them, like nail pitting or horizontal splitting at the tips. Basically, these ridges happen when something messes with how your nail plate is made or directly harms the nail itself. A healthy nail is made of about 25 layers of tightly packed cells, and it’s usually pretty smooth. Good blood flow to the nail bed is super important for keeping nails healthy and strong, and understanding this will help as we look at the causes.
Common Causes Of Vertical Nail Ridges
There are quite a few reasons why you might be seeing these vertical lines. Let’s explore some of the most common ones:
Brittle Nail Syndrome
This is a big one. Brittle nail syndrome is often linked to vertical nail ridges. It seems to be more common in middle-aged women. One theory is that the connections between the nail cells are weaker in women compared to men. After menopause, the natural oils and water content in nails can decrease, which likely contributes to this brittleness and the ridges. Importantly, this syndrome usually only affects fingernails, not toenails.
Underlying Skin Conditions
Sometimes, vertical nail ridges can be a sign of a primary skin issue. Conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, and lichen planus can all affect your nails. Even alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss, can also impact the nails, leading to ridges.
Fungal Nail Infections
It’s worth mentioning fungal infections, but with a big caveat. Fungal infections of the fingernails are actually quite rare. If a doctor tells you, just by looking, that your fingernail ridges are due to fungus, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion. They’d typically need to do tests like a fungal culture. However, if you’re seeing vertical ridges on your toenails, it could be a sign of toenail fungus.
Medical Conditions
Certain internal health problems can show up in your nails. Anemia, for instance, means your blood isn’t carrying oxygen as well, and this can affect nail formation, leading to ridges and generally brittle nails. Conditions that affect blood flow, like arteriosclerosis, can also contribute. Thyroid issues, both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism), are also commonly linked to vertical nail ridges. Growing strong, healthy nails takes energy, so it makes sense that thyroid problems, which affect metabolism, can impact nail health.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Your diet plays a role! If you’re not getting enough essential vitamins and minerals, or if you’ve been on crash diets, it can show up in your nails, just like it can in your hair. Vertical nail ridges can be one way these deficiencies manifest.
Medications
Certain medications can affect nail growth. Chemotherapy drugs, for example, are known to impact the nails and can lead to vertical ridges.
Trauma and Manicuring Practices
This is a really common, often overlooked cause. Anything that repeatedly traumatizes the nail plate can lead to ridges. This is especially true for people who work with their hands a lot, particularly those who do a lot of “wet work” – meaning their hands are frequently wet and then dry. Exposure to detergents and harsh chemicals can also damage the nail. Even everyday activities or hobbies can contribute.
Aggressive manicuring is another big culprit. Constantly filing, buffing, pushing back, or cutting the cuticles can damage the nail matrix (where the nail grows from) and lead to ridges. Your cuticles are there for a reason – they protect the nail bed. Grooming them too much can actually harm your nails in the long run and even open the door for infections.
Nail cosmetics, like gel manicures, can also dry out the nail plate. Keeping nails long also makes them more vulnerable to getting snagged and broken, which can disrupt healthy nail growth. Plus, longer nails tend to lose moisture more easily, contributing to ridges.
What You Can Do About Vertical Nail Ridges
So, you know the causes, but what’s the fix? Here are some practical steps:
- Address Underlying Issues: If a medical condition or skin problem is causing the ridges, treating that first is key. Get your thyroid checked, manage your anemia, or control your eczema. Your nails can’t recover until the root cause is managed.
- Protect Your Nails: Minimize contact with water and harsh detergents. If your job involves a lot of wet work or cleaning products, wear gloves. Even for household chores, protect your hands.
- Consider Supplements (Wisely): While many supplements claim to help hair, skin, and nails, the science can be mixed. If you suspect a deficiency, talk to your doctor about appropriate supplements. Some studies show benefits for certain vitamins and minerals, but it’s best to get personalized advice.
- Use Petroleum Jelly: Plain Vaseline is a fantastic occlusive. It helps protect the skin around your nails, preventing water and debris from getting under the nail folds, which can harm nail growth. It also helps the nail retain moisture. For an extra boost, apply Vaseline, put on cotton gloves, and leave them on overnight.
- Try Nail Treatments: Look for nail treatments containing ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic or lactic acid) or urea. These can help improve the nail’s water content and smooth out the surface. Products like Kerasal Nail can be quite effective.
- Keep Nails Trimmed: Especially while you’re trying to improve nail health, keeping nails shorter can help. Shorter nails are less likely to dehydrate and less prone to trauma from snagging.
- Rethink Manicures: Avoid aggressive cuticle care. Don’t push back or cut your cuticles. This delicate skin protects your nail matrix. Aggressive treatment can damage it and lead to ridges or even infections.
- Be Patient: This is perhaps the most important tip. Nails grow slowly. It takes about 6 months for a fingernail to grow out completely. You won’t see results overnight, so stick with your nail care routine.
By understanding the causes and implementing these tips, you can work towards healthier, smoother nails. Remember to be patient and consistent with your nail care!
Source: Andrea Suarez, MD, FAAD