Nail ridges aren’t just cosmetic—they can sometimes reveal hidden health clues. Dr. Ross Perry, a skin specialist at Cosmedics, explains that these lines running along your nails could signal anything from nutritional gaps to dehydration—or even more serious conditions.
Nutritional and Lifestyle Factors
According to Dr. Perry, a lack of key vitamins and minerals can cause ridges to appear. “Low levels of Vitamin A, protein, or calcium may show up as ridges on your nails,” he says. “In extreme cases, a severe iron deficiency can trigger noticeable changes, including pronounced ridges.”
But don’t panic—most nail imperfections are harmless. Everyday habits, like picking at your nails, can create similar patterns. The NHS adds that most changes, including brittle, loose, or slightly discolored nails, usually aren’t a sign of serious illness.
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