If such lines appear on your nails after the age of 40, it’s a clear sign that…

Have you noticed the appearance of fine vertical ridges at the base and tips of your nails as you get older? If so, you’re not alone. Many people begin to observe these changes after age 40. While they are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. So, what causes these vertical ridges, and when should you be concerned?
What are vertical nail ridges?
Vertical nail ridges, also called longitudinal ridges, are raised lines that extend from the nail plate to the tip of the nail. Their depth and number can vary, and they often become more noticeable with age.

For most people, these ridges are a normal sign of aging. Just as skin loses elasticity and hair turns gray, nails also undergo structural changes over time. The production of keratin, the protein that makes up nails, can decrease or become irregular, leading to changes in their structure.