I Have Ridges On My Fingernails, Should I Be Worried?

You've probably heard about some signs that our bodies show when our health is on the line. It's like our bodies are trying to tell us when there's something wrong. But sometimes, when signs appear, we ignore them thinking that they're not a big deal.

However, we need to keep in mind that we need to pay more attention to these subtle signs, like how the skin becomes oilier when stressed, or how breakouts are a result of an excessive intake of dairy products. One less noticeable thing is how our fingernails appear to have ridges. But who pays attention to this? What exactly are these ridges, and what is the body telling us?

What are those ridges on my fingernails?

Fingernail ridges are those fine lines on the nail beds. While you may think that they're barely there, these lines are more evident for some people. They become coarse, making the nails brittle.

Should I be concerned?

There really is no straightforward answer to this question because it all depends on how they appear. If your fingernails have vertical ridges, you shouldn't be too worried because it's a common case, and it can easily be treated. But they should not be ignored nonetheless.

Vertical ridges appear for reasons like aging and dryness of the skin. These lines could also be due to a recent change in diet, particularly in one's protein intake. Because nails are made of hardened proteins, a decrease in the consumption of proteins and calcium could cause vertical lines to show up on the fingernails.

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The appearance of vertical ridges on the fingernails is easy to treat. You can take some supplements rich in biotin to help increase the production of keratin, and you can also start hydrating your nails using some oils that dermatologists would recommend.

As an added form of protection, you can also use UV filter polishes to protect your nails from UV damage.

However, having horizontal lines on your fingernails is a different story. Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City director, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, says that horizontal ridges could result from factors such as an illness, a recent surgery, intake of medication, or malnutrition. But a more common cause, according to Dr. Zeichner, is paronychia, which refers to the infection of the cuticle.

These horizontal lines, also called Beau's lines, are usually an indication of the lack of oxygen and blood supply in the veins. In this case, it is best to reach out to your dermatologist.

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