Lines on Your Nails: A Complete Guide to Causes & Cures

If you see lines on your nails, then know the reason and ways to get relief.

The lines visible on the nails also reduce its beauty. The lines visible on the surface of the nails are light, which sometimes indicate health problems or lack of nutrition. This also affects the growth of nails.

Often people seem to be worried about nails breaking quickly and their color changing. But sometimes the lines that appear on the nails also reduce their beauty. However, most people have to face lines on the nails as they grow older. Actually, Diabetes and nutritional problems prove to be the cause of this deficiency. Let us first understand what causes ridges in nails and how this problem can be solved.

What are the ridges in nails?

According to Dermatologists explain that these lines (ridges in nails) appear on the surface of the nails, which are horizontal or vertical from the cuticle to the tip. The ridges visible on the nails are light, Which sometimes indicates health problems or lack of nutrition. This also affects the growth of nails.

Causes of ridges in nails

Increasing age

Long ridges, which are common on nails, often become more visible after the age of 50. Indian Journal of Dermatology 2011 According to the report, aging is the most common cause of vertical ridges. The production of keratin, a protein beneficial for nail health, decreases with age. This causes ridges in nails to appear.

Dehydration

Dryness of the nails proves to be the cause of ridges, experts say. Frequent hand washing, exposure to chemicals present in skincare products and low hydration can eliminate moisture from the nails. This starts affecting the skin under the nails (ridges in nails).

Nutrient deficiency

Nails become weak due to lack of iron, zinc and vitamin B12 in the body. According to a report in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal, ridges in nails are caused by iron deficiency. Actually, keratin also increases the strength of nails.

Psoriasis

This affects the moisture of the nails. According to a report in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 78.3% of the population suffer from psoriasis. Nail changes were seen in 50% of participants. Vertical ridges were seen in the nails of the participants. This condition often develops along with inflammation of the nail matrix, which also affects growth.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Do you know Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis affect the joints including the hands and feet. This causes the formation of vertical lines in the nails. Also, one has to face the problem of nail breakage.

Tips to Deal with Ridges in Nails

With the help of these tips, the problem of lines on the nails will be solved (tips to deal with ridges in nails):

Nutritious diet

To remove cracks in nails, increase the amount of iron, zinc and vitamin B12 in the diet. This increases the amount of red blood cells in the body, which compensates for the deficiency of blood. Avoid skipping meals and do not include processed food in the diet.

Treat Health Conditions

Cracks appear on nails due to diabetes, arthritis or psoriasis. In such a situation, regular checkup and treatment helps in reducing inflammation in the body and increasing nail growth. This also reduces the risk of health problems in the body.

Stay Hydrated

Sometimes, keeping the nails moisturized can help in fighting dehydration. Regularly applying moisturizing creams or nourishing nail oils can also prevent the risk of dry and damaged nails. Massaging argan oil into nails may help prevent them from breaking, according to a 2024 report in Nutrients.

Nail care

Avoid using products containing harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene. Keep in mind that regularly trim and file nails to maintain a proper shape. This can control ingrown lines on the nails.