Have you noticed thin vertical lines running from the base to the tip of your fingernails as you’ve gotten older? You’re not alone. Many people start to see these changes after the age of 40. In most cases, they’re harmless, but sometimes they can hint at underlying health concerns.
Understanding Vertical Nail Ridges
Vertical ridges—also called longitudinal striations—are raised lines that run from the cuticle to the nail tip. Their depth and number can vary, and they often become more noticeable with age.
Just like your skin loses elasticity or hair turns gray, nails also change over time. The nail’s main building block, keratin, may be produced unevenly, creating ridges.
Common Causes After Age 40
- Natural Aging
As we age, cell regeneration slows down, including in the nail matrix (the base of the nail). This can cause keratin to form unevenly, resulting in vertical ridges. - Nail Dryness
Nails tend to become drier with age, making ridges more visible. Frequent exposure to water, soap, or cleaning chemicals can worsen dryness. - Nutritional Deficiencies
Low levels of biotin, iron, zinc, or magnesium can weaken nails and highlight ridges. After 40, nutrient absorption may decline, making deficiencies more common.
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