WHAT CAUSES… NAIL RIDGES?

Vertical ridges on your nails, running from cuticle to tip, are usually a harmless sign of ageing. “As we get older, the nail matrix, where new nail cells are created, produces less keratin, so ridges naturally appear,” explains Dr Anita Takwale, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics. Less commonly, ridges can reflect dehydration, B-vitamin or mineral deficiencies, hormonal changes or conditions like eczema or thyroid issues.

Horizontal grooves, known as Beau’s lines, may appear on all nails after a temporary interruption in nail growth due to illness, trauma, chemotherapy or severe stress. She says, “While the lines themselves need no treatment, addressing the underlying cause supports healthier nail growth.” If you notice the sudden appearance of deep ridges or a change in nail colour, especially a darkening under the nail that doesn’t grow out, get it checked out with your GP.