Main Causes After Age 40
1. Natural Aging Process
The most common reason for vertical ridges is simply aging. As we get older, the body’s ability to regenerate skin cells slows down. The same happens to the nail matrix (the base of the nail), which may produce keratin unevenly, leading to ridges.
2. Dehydration of the Nail
With age, nails—like skin—tend to become drier. A lack of moisture makes nails more brittle and accentuates ridges. Frequent exposure to water, soap, and cleaning chemicals can worsen dryness.
