A nail ridge is a raised or indented line that runs along the surface of the nail. It can be vertical (from the cuticle to the tip) or horizontal (side to side across the nail).
It is very common and can be caused by various factors, like aging, nutritional deficiencies, underlying health conditions, or external damage.
Types of Nail Ridges
- Vertical Ridges (Longitudinal Ridges)
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- It starts from the cuticle and grows till the tip of the nail
- Commonly because of aging due to slowed cell turnover
- Can also be linked to dehydration, anemia, or vitamin deficiencies (e.g., iron, B12)
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Horizontal Ridges (Beau’s Lines)
- It runs across the nail in horizontal lines
- Its majorly because of a temporary disruption in nail growth due to illness, injury, or stress
- It may be related to diabetes, malnutrition, or infections
Possible Causes of Nail Ridges
- Aging (most common for vertical ridges)
- Nutritional Deficiencies (iron, biotin, zinc, protein)
- Dehydration (lack of moisture in nails)
- Health Conditions (anemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, psoriasis)
- Injury or Trauma (frequent manicures, nail biting)
Treatment & Prevention
- Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water and use moisturizing oils (e.g., jojoba, vitamin E)
- Improve Nutrition: Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals (leafy greens, nuts, lean proteins)
- Use Gentle Nail Care: Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive buffing, and rough manicures
- Monitor Health: If ridges appear suddenly or worsen, consult a doctor
All the above are the treatment and one must follow these for the healthy nails. However, below are some temporary quick fixes till you grow the nails back and healthy.
1. Buffing the Nails (Gently!)
- Use a fine-grit nail buffer to lightly smooth out ridges.
- Avoid over-buffing to prevent nail thinning.
2. Ridge-Filling Base Coat
- Apply a ridge-filling base coat before polish to create a smooth surface.
- Look for formulas with strengthening ingredients like keratin or calcium.
3. Moisturizing & Cuticle Care
- Massage cuticle oil (jojoba, vitamin E) into nails to improve flexibility.
- Apply a hydrating hand cream to prevent dryness.
4. Nail Polish for a Glossy Finish
- Use a thick, creamy polish to mask ridges.
- A gel or dip powder manicure can also provide a smooth appearance.
5. Press-On Nails or Nail Wraps
- If you need an instant fix for an event, use press-on nails or nail wraps to cover ridges.
These are temporary solutions, but keeping your nails hydrated and healthy will help reduce ridges in the long run!