What Those Vertical Ridges on Your Fingernails Might Be Telling You — Especially After 40

 Have you noticed faint or deep vertical lines running from the base to the tip of your fingernails? If so, you’re not alone — and you’re certainly not imagining it. These lines, often more noticeable with age, are commonly referred to as vertical nail ridges. For many people over the age of 40, they seem to appear out of nowhere and prompt questions about what might be going on beneath the surface.

The good news? In most cases, they’re harmless. But sometimes, these changes in your nails can be signs of deeper issues. Let’s take a closer look at why they happen, what they could mean, and how to care for aging nails to keep them strong and healthy.

What Are Vertical Nail Ridges?

Vertical ridges, also known as longitudinal striations, are raised lines that run from the cuticle (the base of the nail) to the tip. Some ridges are barely noticeable, while others can be felt clearly when you run your finger across the nail.

It’s a natural part of the body’s aging process. Just as skin starts to show wrinkles and hair begins to gray, the texture and structure of our nails also begin to change. Over time, the cells that form your nails — known as keratin-producing cells — may slow down or become uneven in their growth. This results in changes to how smooth your nails look and feel.

What Causes These Ridges After 40?

1. Natural Aging

As we grow older, our body’s ability to regenerate cells slows down. This includes the cells in the nail matrix, which is the base area of your fingernail where growth begins.

When nail cells don’t form as evenly or quickly as they once did, the surface of the nail can become less smooth, causing those visible ridges. For most people, this is not a cause for concern — it’s simply one of the many natural changes that occur with age.

2. Dryness and Dehydration

One of the less obvious effects of aging is a loss of moisture, not just in our skin but also in our nails. Drier nails tend to become more brittle and less flexible. This makes any existing ridges appear more prominent and can lead to cracking or peeling.

Frequent handwashing, exposure to soap, or working with cleaning products without gloves can make this dryness worse over time.

3. Nutrient Deficiencies

Another common factor is lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially:

Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Iron

Zinc

Magnesium

As we age, our bodies don’t absorb nutrients as efficiently. That means even if you’re eating well, you might still fall short in certain areas — and your nails could be one of the first places to show it.

If you’ve also been experiencing fatigue, thinning hair, or slow healing, it might be worth speaking to your doctor about possible deficiencies.

4. Underlying Health Conditions

In rarer cases, pronounced vertical ridges could be a sign of a health issue that needs attention. Some possible causes include:

Poor circulation

Thyroid imbalances (both underactive and overactive)

Rheumatoid arthritis

Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

If nail ridges are accompanied by other unusual symptoms — such as joint pain, changes in skin texture, or unexplained fatigue — it’s best to have it checked by a healthcare professional.

When to See a Doctor

Although vertical ridges are typically harmless, there are times when they could signal something more serious. You should seek medical attention if your nail ridges are accompanied by:

Dark brown or black streaks underneath the nail

Nail splitting, thickening, or peeling

Redness, pain, or swelling around the nail bed

These may point to a fungal infection, injury, or — in rare cases — a form of skin cancer called melanoma, which can develop under the nail.

Early detection matters, so never ignore a sudden or dramatic change in your nail’s appearance.

How to Care for Aging Nails

Even though ridges may be part of aging, there are several ways to care for your nails to minimize their appearance and improve their overall strength:

1. Moisturize Regularly

Use a hand cream or nail oil that’s rich in ingredients like vitamin E or shea butter, especially after washing your hands or using cleaning products.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water each day is essential for nail health. Dehydrated nails are more prone to brittleness and visible ridges.

3. Focus on Nutrition

Eat a balanced diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Pay special attention to:

Vitamin A and C (for healthy nail cells)

Biotin (found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains)

Zinc and iron (found in leafy greens, legumes, and meats)

Talk to your doctor before starting supplements, especially if you’re already taking medication.

4. Be Gentle with Your Nails

Skip harsh manicures and don’t file your nails too aggressively. Buffing can help smooth ridges, but overdoing it can thin the nail and make things worse.

Choose acetone-free nail polish remover and avoid artificial nails or gels if you notice your nails are weakening.

5. Protect Your Hands

Wear gloves while doing household chores or gardening. Frequent exposure to chemicals and moisture can dry out the nails and skin around them.

It’s natural for our bodies to change as we age — and our nails are no exception. Vertical ridges on the fingernails are incredibly common and, in most cases, simply a sign of getting older. Still, your nails can sometimes offer subtle clues about what’s going on beneath the surface of your health.

By staying aware of how your nails look and feel — and giving them the care they need — you can keep them strong, smooth, and healthy for years to come.

If something feels off or changes rapidly, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your healthcare provider. When it comes to health, even small details can be worth a closer look.