Ridges that appear vertically along the length of the nail (from the tip to the cuticle) are technically called longitudinal striations or bands. These vertical ridges are actually pretty common as we get older. As we age, cell turnover—the process in which new skin cells are produced and take the place of dead cells—slows. Eventually, this can affect the smoothness of our nails.

However, if those vertical ridges appear alongside symptoms like anxiety, weight loss, swelling feet, or excessive urination, they may be associated with iron deficiency anemia. If you suspect iron deficiency may be an issue for you, see your doctor to run blood work.

Since the inflammatory conditions that cause nail pitting affect how nails grow and can also contribute to vertical ridges, we may want to rule those out, too.

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