Liam Carter
Wavy nails are characterised by irregularly shaped ridges that can cross vertically, transversely or horizontally on the nail's surface. While the condition is not a medical emergency, it could be a symptom of an underlying health issue. Causes of wavy nails include malnutrition, fungal diseases, vitamin deficiencies, nail trauma, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lichen, and Beau's lines. Treatment options vary depending on the cause and can include the use of ointments and lotions, as well as taking biotin supplements and eating biotin-rich foods.
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What You'll Learn
Zinc and iron deficiencies
Wavy nails, or nail ridges, can be a sign of zinc and iron deficiencies. While vertical ridges are often a sign of aging, horizontal ridges can point to malnutrition, serious nail injury, or Beau's lines. Beau's lines are deep horizontal ridges that can stop nail growth until the underlying condition is treated. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including chemotherapy, damage from artificial nails, gel manicures, and certain illnesses.
Zinc is an essential nutrient that contributes to hair, skin, and nail health. A zinc deficiency can cause nail dystrophy, which is characterized by nail discoloration and distortion, such as brittle nails and lines appearing on the nail. In some cases, low zinc levels can lead to complete nail loss. Zinc deficiency can also cause Beau's lines and white spots on the nails. To increase zinc intake, individuals can incorporate zinc-rich foods such as whole grains, poultry, beans, and beef into their diet or take zinc supplements under medical supervision.
Iron deficiency is another potential cause of wavy nails. It can lead to vertical nail ridges and koilonychia, commonly known as spoon nails. Spoon nails have a depression in the middle, giving the appearance that the center of the nail has been scooped out. Iron deficiency can also cause brittle nails. To address iron deficiency, individuals can include iron-rich foods in their diet or take iron supplements if advised by a healthcare professional.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of nail ridges and seek appropriate treatment. While home nail care may improve the appearance of nails, treating the underlying cause is crucial for healthy nail growth.
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Gel manicures, artificial nails, and acrylics
If you do opt for a gel manicure, there are several precautions you can take to protect your nail health. Before your appointment, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands to prevent skin cancer and premature skin aging caused by ultraviolet radiation used to seal gel nail polish. Alternatively, wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off before your nail polish is applied.
When your gel manicure begins to come off, do not pick at the polish or use other nails or tools to remove it. Instead, make an appointment with your manicurist to have the polish removed safely. Only soak your fingertips in acetone. To care for your nails in between gel manicures, try not to wear nail polish for one to two weeks or longer to give your nails time to repair. Apply a moisturizing product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily to minimize brittleness and help prevent chipping.
If you notice any unusual changes to your nails or persistent nail problems, see a board-certified dermatologist.
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Thyroid problems
Thyroid disease can cause changes in your skin, hair, and nails. If you have hypothyroidism, you may experience thick, brittle nails with vertical ridges. Your nails may also crumble or break easily, and they may appear more rounded with a swollen fingertip. These symptoms can indicate an underlying thyroid condition, which a dermatologist may be the first to notice.
Thyroid disease can cause nail changes such as Beau's lines, which are deep horizontal ridges. These ridges may indicate an interruption in nail growth due to various factors, including chemotherapy, artificial nails, gel manicures, injury, peripheral vascular disease, severe illness, or nutritional deficiencies. Repeated Beau's lines could signal an underlying condition affecting nail growth.
Medications for thyroid disease can often resolve or improve related nail problems. Treating the underlying cause of thyroid disease can lead to the growth of smoother and healthier nails. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the cause of nail changes and receive appropriate treatment.
While nail ridges are usually harmless, they can indicate underlying health issues in some cases. Vertical ridges are often associated with aging, while horizontal ridges may suggest malnutrition, nail trauma, vitamin deficiencies, or more serious medical conditions. Proper nail care, including moisturization and avoiding nail-biting, can help improve the appearance of nails.
If you notice changes in your nails, such as swelling, redness, or razor bumps on the back of your neck or scalp, it is essential to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, order necessary tests, and provide treatment options to address any underlying conditions, including thyroid problems, and improve the health and appearance of your nails.
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Ageing
While wavy nails are not a medical emergency, they can be a sign of ageing. As an individual grows older, the levels of natural oil and moisture in the nail plates decrease, and ridges become prominent.
Nail abnormalities are typically characterised by irregularly shaped ridges that can be vertical, transverse, or horizontal. These ridges can be a result of ageing, as well as other factors such as malnutrition, fungal diseases, and vitamin deficiencies. For example, iron deficiency may cause vertical ridges in your nails, and zinc deficiency can cause horizontal ridges called Beau's lines. Beau's lines can also be caused by severe illness, chemotherapy, injury to the nail, and peripheral vascular disease (PAD).
To improve the appearance of nails, it is recommended to keep them clean, hydrated, and moisturised. Applying ointments and lotions based on natural vegetable oils can help to promote healing and keep nails soft and hydrated. Taking biotin supplements and eating biotin-rich foods such as leafy greens, brown rice, sunflower seeds, liver, cheese, soybeans, and sweet potatoes can also help improve nail resistance.
Additionally, it is important to take care of your nails by not biting, picking, or tearing at them. Keeping nails trimmed and maintaining proper nail hygiene can also help improve their appearance.
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Bacterial or fungal infections
Fungal nail infections occur when fungi enter through cracks in the nail or surrounding skin and thrive in the warm, dark environment, causing the nail to thicken, discolour, and become brittle. The infection typically starts at the edge of the nail and gradually spreads towards the centre. It may manifest as yellowish discolouration, white spots, or a powdery substance that causes the nail to crumble. In some cases, the entire nail may detach, leading to pain and swelling in the surrounding skin.
Fungal nail infections are usually treated with topical or oral antifungal medications. Topical treatments involve applying or brushing the medication onto the affected nail regularly for several months. Oral antifungals, in the form of pills, are often more effective in treating severe infections by killing the fungus throughout the body. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected nail to facilitate the growth of a new, healthy nail.
While bacterial infections in nails are less common, they can occur in conjunction with fungal infections or as a secondary infection. Bacterial infections may lead to swelling, redness, and pain around the nail, indicating an infected hangnail or ingrown nail. Treatment for bacterial nail infections may involve oral antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgical drainage if an abscess is present.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect a fungal or bacterial nail infection. They can evaluate the extent of the infection and recommend appropriate treatment options to promote the growth of healthy nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Wavy nails are usually a result of ridges that are irregularly shaped, crossing vertically, transversely, or horizontally on the nail's surface. This can be caused by transient conditions, environmental factors, or immune-based diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lichen.
Treatment options depend on the underlying cause. Ointments and lotions based on natural vegetable oils can help keep nails hydrated and promote healing. Biotin supplements and biotin-rich foods like leafy greens and sweet potatoes can also help improve nail resistance.
Wavy nails can be a sign of malnutrition, serious nail injury, vitamin deficiencies, or a more pressing medical condition. Beau's lines, for instance, are deep horizontal ridges that can indicate acute kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, or a severe illness with a high fever.
