Vertical Fingernail Ridges? Don't Worry---Quite Normal

Vertical fingernail ridges. Let's be frank here, the ridges aren't pretty. And no, you can't file them down and make them disappear, unfortunately. We've already tried.

But don't freak out----the condition is quite normal, according to the experts at the famous Mayo Clinic:

"Vertical nail ridges, which extend from your cuticle to the tip of your nail, are fairly common and often become more numerous or prominent as you age. Vertical ridges in your nails are not a health concern. Although the exact cause of such ridging isn't known, heredity likely plays a role."

Hmmm. We don't like these vertical ridges, but then again, it's the horizontal ridges we should be concerned about, says the Mayo Clinic:

"If your fingernails change color or develop horizontal ridges, see your doctor. These changes may indicate underlying health problems, such as respiratory disease, malnutrition or even heart attack."

Our best nail advice: Don't worry about the ridges. But do worry about having strong, healthy nails. There's nothing worse than splits and cracks, and weak nail beds.

There are some super nail strengtheners out there, like this cult favorite:

Mavala Scientifique Nail Hardener ($16.99, follica). This little bottle has a huge following of fans. Hard to find, but we located a stash at folica.com. One woman says she's been using Mavala for some 30 years. Now, that's an opinion we can trust.

Mavala describes their little nail hardener this way:
The tip of nail is the most fragile part which breaks easily. Logic and experience have proven that it is the tip of nail which needs to be strengthened. This Scientifique is a special treatment for the nail tip. It helps prevent splitting or flaking, strengthens soft nails. It features fast result, ease to apply and economical. And one little bottle lasts an entire year.