A ridged nail is one in which parallel relief lines clearly appear along the entire length of the nail. Ridged nails are one of the most common nail problems, but don’t worry: their causes have been identified and can be alleviated.
In this article, we will help you to know about all the features of this phenomenon and the care for more beautiful nails.
Ridged Nails: What Do They Look Like?
Ridged nails are defined by perfectly straight and raised lines formed on the surface of the nail. These lines can sometimes be seen all over the nail and all fingers, or in a less uniform pattern. The toenails are also affected by the spine.
Streaks on the nails are unfortunately a common trait for many people, although not everyone pays attention to them. These vertical and parallel lines can appear on the nails of women and men of any age, and to a greater or lesser extent.
Why are ribbed nails a problem?
The parallel ridges that appear on the nails can be a problem for people who want clean, smooth nails. They prevent natural and varnish-free manicures. Conversely, some varnishes tend to enhance this property rather than eliminate it.
Causes of ridged nails
The streaks that he can see on his nails are actually the natural streaks of his nail growth. Certain people are exaggerated by internal or external factors, and sometimes they are unaware of other problems.
normal aging
The ridges on the nails are sometimes called “nail wrinkles.” Ridged nails can indeed be a result of aging. Therefore, they increase age and can be exacerbated for postmenopausal women.
This is the natural evolution of every human being.
minor trauma
Successive small vibrations on the nails can also be the cause of streaks. This can backfire if you tend to go for overly aggressive manicures, especially with a polisher.
These small traumas cause irregular nail growth, which may be the cause of the streaks.
defect in rare cases
Most importantly, rest assured that ribbed nails are definitely not a reflection of serious disease, not just a sign of calcium deficiency.
However, the nails may be witnesses to a very important iron deficiency, which still causes the nails to be completely deformed, not just the longitudinal lines.
Like brittle nails, ridged nails can be the result of frequent contact with water or detergents. To avoid damaging your nails, it is important to wear household gloves.
care and treatment to be given
As a reminder, ribbed nails are not technically damaged nails. However, the ridges can deepen, adding to other problems such as brittle or softened nails.
Fortunately, there are certain gestures you can make to improve the condition of your nails.
smooth nails
Streaks are on the surface and are embossed, smoothing them out. However, over-polishing is itself a cause of nail trauma and streaks, so this gesture must be limited.
So, polish your nails at most once a week. Your gestures must remain light and touching so as not to attack the nails.
Likewise, to file the edges, choose the glass file. Softer glass files will create less tension on the nail plate. Remember to use cuticle oil or moisturizer after using this technique.
Choose Castor Oil
Even though streaks are sometimes unavoidable, their strength can be slowed down by allowing the nails to grow in better conditions. Castor oil is known to nourish and promote good nail growth.
There are also specific varnishes that can be used to smooth and reduce streaks. Some are especially rich in silicon to fill the spaces between the ridges. Best of all, these products smooth the surface of your nails.