Why You May Notice Vertical Ridges on Your Nails After 40 — And What They Mean

As we age, our bodies go through countless subtle changes—some more noticeable than others. One surprising area where these shifts show up is our fingernails. For many people, especially after the age of 40, vertical ridges—also called longitudinal striations—start to appear. These lines typically run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail and are a common feature of aging

While they can be an aesthetic concern for some, the good news is that most vertical ridges are completely harmless. In fact, they’re considered a natural part of the aging process. But they can also offer insights into your overall health and nutrition, making them worth paying attention to.

Why Do Vertical Ridges Form?

The main culprit behind these changes is a natural slowdown in keratin production. Keratin is the key protein that gives structure to our nails (and hair), and as we age, our body becomes less efficient at producing it. As keratin production declines, the nail surface can become less smooth and more uneven, causing the familiar ridged appearance.

In addition, our skin and nails lose moisture with age. Dehydrated nails are more prone to brittleness, texture changes, and visible ridging. Daily wear and tear—such as frequent hand washing, exposure to soap, and use of cleaning products—can further dry out the nail bed, making ridges more pronounced over time.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Nail Health

Another reason these ridges become more noticeable with age is related to nutritional absorption. As we get older, the body may not absorb vitamins and minerals as effectively. This can lead to mild deficiencies in nutrients like:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Helps strengthen keratin.
• Iron: Essential for oxygenating cells, including those that form nail tissue.
• Magnesium: Supports healthy cell function.
• Zinc: Aids in tissue repair and growth.

If your diet lacks these nutrients—or if you have trouble absorbing them—your nails may become thinner, more brittle, and more prone to developing ridges or other surface changes.