Vertical lines on nails are something that many people notice as they age. Lately, those unsightly lines have been more common than ever. This prompted me to investigate whether these lines have anything to do with your health and whether there are ways to get rid of or reduce them.

What do vertical lines on nails mean for your health
After extensive research, I discovered that vertical lines can be a sign of an underlying medical condition or nail trauma. However, for most people, these lines are a completely normal part of aging. They often become more noticeable as you get older, especially if you have dry skin or conditions like eczema.

At 36, I found that the lines on my nails were becoming more prominent, but knowing that they are usually harmless was a relief. They are basically a natural result of aging.

Why do they appear?

These lines are like wrinkles on your skin but for your nails. As you age, the nail matrix, which is responsible for nail growth, becomes less effective in certain areas. This uneven nail growth leads to the formation of vertical lines, which run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail.

However, vertical lines may also be linked to nutritional deficiencies. A deficiency in protein, zinc, calcium, or vitamin A can exacerbate these vertical lines or cause them to develop in the first place. If you notice deep lines or have other health issues, it may be worth considering getting a blood test to check for potential deficiencies.

How to Reduce the Appearance of Vertical Lines

To reduce the appearance of these lines, one of the most important things you can do is keep your hands and nails well moisturized. Use a thick cream, oil, or petroleum jelly to moisturize your skin, focusing especially on your cuticles. Think of it as treating your nails the way you would treat wrinkles on your skin.

On a related note, I recently discovered a simple but effective tool that can smooth and polish the ridges on your nails. For about $8, you can buy a nail shaper and polisher that makes your nails look shiny, like you’re wearing clear nail polish. I found one on Amazon, and it made a noticeable difference, leaving my hands looking refreshed.

If you decide to polish your nails, just be careful not to overdo it, especially if your nails are thin. Over-polishing can weaken your nails, so it’s important to keep a balance. Another quick fix for hiding ridges is to paint your nails. Using a base coat helps fill in the ridges, creating a smoother surface for nail polish and even helping to prolong the life of your polish. By staying on top of your hand and nail care routine and making sure your body isn’t lacking essential nutrients, you can manage and minimize the appearance of vertical ridges. But most importantly, remember that these lines are a natural part of aging, and in most cases, they’re nothing to worry about.