What should you know about brittle dry nails with ridges?

A ridge running from the cuticle to the tip is called a longitudinal ridge. It may become more noticeable with age or after the nail has been repeatedly exposed to water, detergents, solvents, filing, or picking. Ridges running across the nail can reflect an interruption in nail growth and deserve closer attention, especially when several nails change at once.

Dryness can make the nail plate lose flexibility, so the edge splits, peels, or breaks more easily. Frequent handwashing, long periods with wet hands, and contact with cleaning products can weaken the surface. Nail biting, aggressive manicures, or removing gel products can add mechanical damage.

Eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions can affect nail texture. Nail fungus can present with brittle, discoloured, thickened, or crumbly nails, although a ridge alone does not establish that diagnosis. A clinician may look at the nail and, when needed, test material from it before recommending treatment.

Keep nails short and smooth rough edges with a fine file, moving in one direction. Apply a thick moisturiser or ointment to the nails and surrounding skin after washing and before bed. Wear protective gloves for dishwashing or cleaning, while keeping the inside of the gloves dry.

Pause artificial nails, polish removers, and cuticle cutting while the nail surface recovers. Do not scrape beneath the nail or use supplements for nail changes without discussing them with a healthcare professional; the right approach depends on the cause. Nail growth is gradual, so improvement becomes visible as new nail grows from the base.

Arrange a medical review if the change persists despite gentle care, affects several nails, or is accompanied by yellowing, thickening, crumbling, pain, swelling, or separation from the nail bed. A new dark streak, bleeding, or a mark that does not grow out should be assessed promptly.

Seek earlier advice if the skin around the nail is hot, increasingly red, swollen, or draining, or if you have diabetes, reduced circulation, or a weakened immune system. Bring a list of nail products and medicines, and mention whether the change followed an injury or manicure.

You could ask: What type of ridge or nail damage do you see? Should the nail be tested for fungus? Could a skin condition, medicine, or nutritional problem be contributing? Which moisturiser and nail-care routine are suitable, and what changes should prompt a follow-up?