As time passes, you might observe your hair thinning or graying, and it’s also quite possible that your nails will start to change. It’s all part of the natural aging process. It’s not surprising given the shared characteristics between your nails and hair, such as the abundance of keratin protein, their growth mechanisms, and their formation from dead structures, as shared by Dr. Michelle Tarbox, a dermatology expert.
It’s crucial to understand these changes to ensure your nails remain in the best possible condition. So, let’s discuss the ways your nails metamorphose over time.
The Evolution of Your Nails as You Age
1. Slowed Nail Growth: As you add more candles to your birthday cake, the speed of nail growth diminishes. When you’re younger, your nails might sprout about three millimeters per month, which could reduce to two millimeters as you age. It might mean fewer manicure sessions or trimming episodes, but it’s a noticeable change.
2. Increased Nail Brittleness: Aging can cause your nails to thin and become more brittle. They may start to break easily or lose their shiny, smooth texture. This could result in rougher nails or vertical ridges that resemble wrinkles. But fear not, specific nail conditioners and hardeners can help combat these changes.
3. Thickening of Toenails: While fingernails are thin, your toenails may do the opposite. They tend to thicken due to repeated minor traumas such as hitting your shoe front, making them more susceptible to fungal infections.
Tips to Keep Your Nails Healthy as You Age
Aging is a natural process, but with some care and attention, you can make sure your nails age gracefully.
1. Nourish Your Nails: Nail lacquer can offer some protection, but it’s crucial to use gentle products fortified with nutrients that support nail health, such as vitamins or silk protein. For instance, you might want to try the Dr.’s Remedy line of enriched nail polishes containing biotin, a beneficial B vitamin.
2. Strengthen Your Nails: Nail strengtheners can help improve nail conditions like peeling, cracking, and ridging. Many of these products use calcium to increase nail strength and resilience. Nail-Aid’s Biotin Ultimate Strength nail treatment is a worthy option to consider.
3. Use a Nail Conditioner: Nail conditioners such as Elon Nail Conditioner, which contains lanolin (sebum or oil from sheep wool), can provide beneficial effects on nail health, strength, and growth.
4. Try Nail Supplements: Supplements designed for hair and nail growth can be useful. For instance, Elon Matrix Plus 3000 contains nutrients like biotin, L-Cysteine, and silicon dioxide that the body utilizes for nail production.
5. Add Collagen to Your Diet: You might want to incorporate collagen into your diet to support healthy nail development. If you enjoy bone broth, that’s a great option. For vegans, a supplement like BioSil could be helpful. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
6. Mind Your Manicures: Be aware that certain types of manicures, like gel or acrylics, can cause nail brittleness. It’s essential to take regular breaks from these treatments and choose a salon that understands your nails’ needs as you age.
However, if you notice unusual changes in your nails, such as discolored, thick, fragile, or cracked nails, or changes in shape, you should see your doctor or dermatologist. If you spot dark streaks, skin discoloration around the nail, nail separation, splitting, or a bump under the nail, immediately make an appointment with your dermatologist. These changes could potentially be signs of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Stay alert and keep your nails healthy!
