Having Striped Nails Could Mean That Your Body is

Having striped nails—whether vertical or horizontal—can signal more than just a cosmetic concern. Nails can act as subtle indicators of your overall health. Here’s what they might mean:

Vertical Stripes (Lines Running From Cuticle to Tip)

Often normal with aging, but noticeable or sudden changes could suggest:

Nutritional deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin B12, zinc, or protein.

Dehydration: Lack of proper hydration may affect nail texture.

Underlying health conditions: Rarely, it could indicate issues with the kidneys or circulation.

Horizontal Stripes (Lines Running Across the Nail)

Also called Beau’s lines; these are more concerning:

Stress on the body: Illness, surgery, or high fever can temporarily halt nail growth.

Malnutrition or vitamin deficiency: Lack of essential nutrients can show up as horizontal lines.

Systemic diseases: Diabetes, heart conditions, or liver problems sometimes manifest as Beau’s lines.

Other Considerations