Your nails may hold subtle clues to your overall health. So, what does it mean if you have fingernail ridges? They’re not uncommon, especially with age, and usually, they’re nothing to worry about. Occasionally, however, vertical ridges on nails can be a sign of an underlying medical issue, as can deeper horizontal ridges on nails. What exactly do ridges indicate? Read on for answers and to learn how to get rid of ridges on nails.

Why do my nails have ridges?

The causes of vertical and horizontal fingernail ridges are different, so check out the possible causes for the type of ridges you have.

Causes of vertical ridges on nails

Aging is one of the most common causes of tiny vertical nail ridges (onychorrhexis), which extend from the bottom of the nail to the tip. Most people have some faint vertical nail ridges when they’re younger. The ridges may become more pronounced over time as the nails naturally get thinner and more brittle.

Sometimes, vertical ridges on nails are a sign of vitamin deficiency or other nutrient deficiency. You may notice them if you have an eating disorder or if you’re low in nutrients such as iron, folic acid (vitamin B9) or protein.

Health conditions that can cause vertical fingernail ridges include:

Dry skin accompanied by dehydration of the nail plate

Psoriasis, lichen planus and other inflammatory skin conditions

Hypothyroidism

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rare diseases such as amyloidosis and Witkop syndrome

Repeated trauma to the nails during manicures or pedicures and chemicals found in nail polish removers and cuticle softeners can also make vertical nail ridges more visible.

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