With a skincare approach to nail care, we often look at the ridges on the nails the same way we focus on wrinkles on the face. Ridges can form due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. As we age, the growth rate of our nails slows down, and the production of natural oils and moisture decreases, resulting in ridges. The quality of your nails can also be impacted by lifestyle choices, an unhealthy diet, physical trauma or injury, and harsh chemicals, such as those found in nail polish removers or cleaning products. Ridges can also be a key indicator of a current or past illness.
Addressing ridges on the nails involves ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and proteins, keeping your nails hydrated, and preventative measures such as wearing gloves when working with harsh chemicals. All these can go a long way in maintaining the integrity of your nails. And when it comes to manicures, it’s better to avoid excessive filing or buffing of the nails and resisting the lure of gels, acrylics, and dips, which can exacerbate ridges and weaken the nail plate.
