nail ridges - Nail Problems Message Board

ICC · 11-16-2006, 05:10 PM

i have fairly deep nail ridges on most of my finger nails. they are otherwise healthy, strong, not fungus. just saw my PCP and forgot to ask him. don't see him for awhile. any ideas?

Marti · 11-17-2006, 06:04 PM

The ridges you are seeing are the rails and grooves upon which the nail plate rides forward. The rails are on the nail bed surface and the grooves are on the underside of the nail plate. As we age, these rails and grooves become more apparent because our bodies do not produce the same levels of oils and moisture. The nail bed will transmit these oils and moisture up through all the layers of nail plate where they evaporate on the surface. This is what keeps the nail plate flexible and strong.

If we have our hands in water a lot, or use household cleaning solutions without wearing gloves, or work with a lot of paper or textiles, this can also wick the natural oils and moisture from the skin and nails.

You would do good to go to a Sally Beauty Supply and purchase a bottle of Botanical Oil in the nail department. It contains the essential oils needed to keep your nails moisturized, conditioned, flexible and strong.

ICC · 11-17-2006, 06:36 PM

marti---thanks so much. do you use it only on your nails or as a hand moisturizer too?

Marti · 11-19-2006, 09:06 AM

It will cost you about $10.00 for a 1 ounce bottle. Yes, it is good for your skin as well, but remember - a little goes a long way.

You can also mix your own 'skin' oil by mixing 2 ounces Jojoba Oil, 2 ounces of Grapeseed Oil and 1/4 ounce vitamin E. There will be no scented oils in this unless you choose to add scented oil. You can get these oils on-line or in your local health store.

ICC · 11-20-2006, 05:14 AM

thanks a million marti