As we age, our bodies change in quiet, sometimes curious ways—and one of the more subtle signs often shows up right at our fingertips. If you’ve noticed vertical lines running from the base to the tip of your nails, you’re not alone. Known as longitudinal ridges, these faint striations become more visible with age, especially after 40, and in most cases, they’re completely normal.
Why Do Vertical Nail Ridges Appear?
The most common culprit is a natural slowdown in keratin production—the structural protein responsible for strong, smooth nails. As keratin levels decline with age, the nail surface can become uneven, resulting in those familiar ridges.
Another factor is moisture loss. As skin and nails get drier over time, everyday habits like frequent hand-washing or exposure to harsh cleaners can worsen dryness, making nails brittle and more textured.
Could It Be a Nutritional Deficiency?
Sometimes, your nails are trying to tell you more. As we get older, our bodies can become less efficient at absorbing vital nutrients. Deficiencies in the following can subtly affect nail health:
Biotin (B7): Boosts keratin production
Iron: Delivers oxygen to nail cells
Magnesium: Aids proper cell repair
Zinc: Supports tissue growth and regeneration
A shortfall in any of these might cause nails to become weak, dull, or more deeply ridged.
⚠️ When Should You Pay Closer Attention?
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