6 Surprising Causes of Vertical Ridges on Nails—and What They Could Mean

Why Vertical Ridges Appear: The Basics of Nail Changes
Vertical ridges, also known as longitudinal ridges, are those raised or grooved lines that run lengthwise on your nails.

They develop when the nail matrix—the area under your cuticle where new nail cells form—produces cells a bit unevenly. Research shows these ridges become more common with time, as nail growth naturally slows and the nail plate can become drier.

But that’s not the whole story. Sometimes, lifestyle habits or subtle body shifts play a role too.

Have you seen your ridges deepen over the past year or two? Let’s explore the six most surprising causes.

Cause #1: Natural Aging Process
As we get older, our nails go through changes just like our skin and hair.

Cell turnover in the nail matrix slows down, and natural oil production decreases, leading to faint vertical ridges. Studies indicate that slight vertical ridges often appear in older adults due to these normal shifts.

Many notice them more prominently around their 50s or during hormonal transitions like menopause.

The fix is gentle care: Regular moisturizing can help keep nails flexible. One simple habit? Applying a rich hand cream nightly—many see softer, less pronounced ridges in a few weeks.

But if the lines showed up overnight, aging might not be the only factor.

Cause #2: Dehydration Affecting Nail Health
Your nails need moisture to stay smooth and strong, just like your skin.

When you’re not drinking enough water, the nail plate can dry out, making existing ridges more visible or encouraging new ones. Everyday habits like frequent hand-washing or exposure to dry air can worsen this.

Think about it—coffee, tea, or busy days might mean you’re skimping on plain water without realizing.

A quick tip: Aim for consistent hydration throughout the day. Some people find that carrying a water bottle helps, and over time, better-moisturized nails often look smoother.

Here’s a fast self-check: Gently pinch the skin on the back of your hand. If it doesn’t bounce back quickly, hydration could be an area to focus on.

Cause #3: Nutrient Imbalances in Your Diet
Certain nutrients play a key role in healthy nail growth.

Low levels of iron, biotin, zinc, or vitamin B12 can contribute to ridged or brittle nails. Research links iron deficiency, in particular, to vertical ridges in some cases.

This is more common than you might think, especially if absorption changes with age or diet shifts.