What deficiency causes ridges in fingernails?
If your body is low in protein, calcium, zinc, or vitamin A, a deficiency can sometimes be revealed by ridges in your fingernails.
What do ridged nails indicate?
Ridges in fingernails are common and are usually a sign of aging, Rodney says. Along with ridges, nails may become thicker or thinner and lose their shape as we age. “Our skin, hair, and nails contain keratin, which is vital for creating new skin and nail cells,” she says.
Why do I have deep horizontal ridges in my nails?
The most common cause of horizontal ridges on the nails is called “Beau’s lines.” Horizontal ridging of the nails is trauma to the nail matrix, which is located just behind the cuticle. There are also a few, rarer nail conditions that can portend liver or kidney issues.
What are some abnormal findings you may see when inspecting the nail?
Abnormalities of the nail plate surface
- Nail pitting.
- Beau line.
- Nail ridge.
- Nail notching.
- Nail groove.
- Onychogryphosis.
- Angelwing deformity.
- Crumbling nail.
What vitamins help ridged nails?
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin, also known as vitamin B7, coenzyme R and vitamin H. It promotes healthy cell growth and aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids that are essential for nail growth. Biotin-rich foods and supplements may help strengthen your brittle fingernails.
How can I reduce ridges in my nails?
- Moisturize your nails regularly.
- Keep your nails neat.
- Don’t pick at or bite your nails.
- Buff them gently.
- Don’t mess with your cuticle.
- Reduce water exposure.
- Maintain a healthy diet.
- Use a prescription-strength nail hardener.
What are common nail disorders?
Brittle nail, simple chronic paronychia, and onycholysis represent three of the most prevalent nail disorders. Brittle nails are characterized by increased fragility of the nail plate due to damage to the nail matrix or changes to nail plate cohesion, caused by internal and/or external factors.