Applying a fresh coat of nail polish can provide an immediate mood boost. Whether you've gone for an autumnal Merlot shade or a classic French, a fresh mani has a way of making you feel more together. But, honestly, a good manicure is only as good as the nail underneath it. And if you’ve got ridges, that can be a problem.
‘As we get older, changes in the nail matrix — where the nail is formed — can affect how smoothly the nail grows, causing these lines to become more noticeable,’ explains celebrity nail expert Jenni Draper whose clients include Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham.
The good news? ‘They’re usually completely harmless and don’t generally indicate an underlying problem,’ she reassures.
What exactly are nail ridges?
Horizontal ridges have deeper grooves that stretch from side to side and usually indicate a temporary pause in nail growth. Vertical nail ridges, which are the most common, run lengthways, extending from the cuticle to the tip. ‘Generally, they are a natural part of the ageing process,’ says Jenni.
However, according to Jenni, ‘dehydration, damage to the nail matrix, certain skin or health conditions, and nutritional deficiencies can also contribute. If the ridges appear suddenly or are accompanied by other nail changes, it’s worth getting them checked.’
How can I smooth out nail ridges?
You need to follow one golden rule. ‘The important thing is not to try to remove them by buffing the nail plate,’ emphasises Jenni. ‘This will only thin the natural nail and can cause further damage.’
There are better, safer ways to a smoother, more youthful-looking nail. ‘A good manicurist can use a ridge-filling base coat, creating a smoother base for nail polish or gel polish,’ says Jenni. 'A suitable gel product can even out the surface.' A thicker salon manicure product, such as BIAB, can be useful at skimming over ridges.
What else makes nails look older?
Nails can become more brittle as we age, and hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause play a part, says Jenni. ‘Falling oestrogen levels may contribute to reduced moisture, making nails feel drier, more brittle and more prone to splitting or breaking.’
How can you grow stronger, healthier nails?
Healthy nails start with understanding how to look after your natural nail, says Jenni. ‘My advice is to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated with a good-quality cuticle treatment (Jenni recommends HydraDrops Nail Strengthener & Cuticle Serum, £8.50), avoid excessive buffing, and be gentle when filing - always file in one direction!’
Your diet matters, too. ‘A balanced diet containing protein, iron, zinc and other essential nutrients supports normal nail growth.’
And take a gentle touch, she adds. ‘Avoid using your nails as tools, have a beautifully maintained manicure, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate,’ recommends Jenni. ‘Regular moisturising, using cuticle oil, protecting your hands from harsh chemicals (wear gloves) and avoiding over filing can all make a difference.'
What nail shape and colour make hands look younger?
This can really make a difference, says Jenni. ‘I always think the most flattering nail shape is one that complements your natural nail and the shape of your fingers,’ she says. ‘A soft oval or squoval (a square shape with softened corners) can help create the appearance of longer, more elegant fingers, particularly when the nails are kept at a practical, wearable length.’
When it comes to colour, Jenni prefers sheer pinks, milky nudes and soft, warm neutrals. ‘They can give the hands a fresh, polished appearance.’ If you prefer something bolder, ‘you can never go wrong with a classic red, which is timeless at any age,’ she says. 'My advice is to choose a colour that complements your skin tone rather than following "rules" about what women over 40 should wear.'
