Here are the details, clearly and fully explained 👇
What vertical lines on nails mean after 40
Vertical lines (longitudinal ridges) run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail.
After about 40 years of age, they are very common and usually normal.
1. Most common cause: Aging (normal change)
As we age:
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Nail cell turnover slows down
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Nails lose moisture and natural oils
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Keratin production becomes less uniform
➡️ This makes ridges more visible.
➡️ This is not dangerous and does not require treatment.
2. Other possible causes (less common)
🔹 Dehydration
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Dry body = dry nails
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Ridges look deeper and nails may feel rough
What helps: drink more water, use cuticle oil
🔹 Nutritional deficiencies
Especially:
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Iron deficiency (may also cause pale nails, fatigue)
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Vitamin B12 / B-complex deficiency
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Zinc deficiency
Note: Ridges alone usually do not mean deficiency unless other symptoms exist.
🔹 Thyroid disorders
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Hypothyroidism can cause brittle, ridged nails
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Usually accompanied by fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain
🔹 Repeated trauma
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Manicures, gel nails, nail biting
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Chemical exposure (detergents, acetone)
3. When vertical lines are NOT normal 🚨
See a doctor if you notice:
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Sudden appearance in many nails
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Deep ridges with splitting or crumbling
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Nail color changes (brown, black, white bands)
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Pain, swelling, or nail detachment
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One nail changing differently from the others
4. What you can do to improve nail appearance 💅
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Moisturize daily (cuticle oil, hand cream)
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Stay hydrated
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Gentle nail care (avoid harsh filing)
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Balanced diet (protein, iron, B vitamins)
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Wear gloves when using chemicals
Bottom line
👉 After 40, vertical nail lines are usually a sign of natural aging, not illness.
👉 They become a medical concern only if other symptoms are present.
If you want, you can tell me:
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Your age
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Whether the ridges are on all nails or just one
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Any other health symptoms
I can then tailor the advice more precisely.
