Guide To Treating Fingernail Ridges

Use Topical Ointments

Some fingernail ridges may be caused by a lack of moisture in the nails, and patients who experience this might wish to use topical ointments for relief. Ointments help increase the moisture available to the nails, and they can prevent the nails from drying out. Since ridges often appear more pronounced when the nails and cuticles are dry, ointments help minimize the ridges. Many types of ointments are available over-the-counter, and patients might wish to try several to determine which ones work best for their needs. When using any over-the-counter product, individuals should always read the leaflet that comes with it, and they should take care to apply only the recommended amount of ointment. If a patient notices an ointment is not working, they might need to consult with their primary care doctor to be evaluated for potential underlying causes of fingernail ridges. Any troublesome side effects that occur after using an ointment should be noted and mentioned to a physician.

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Buff Fingernails With An Emery Board

Patients with mild fingernail ridges might be able to minimize these if they buff their fingernails with an emery board. An emery board files down the nails, and it is important to use this board gently. Care should be taken to avoid over-buffing the nails, as this could make them weaker and more prone to breakage or other damage. Intense buffing could also thin the nails, and it might introduce infection into the nail bed, leading to more serious issues. Individuals who wish to try buffing their nails at home should ensure they use clean emery boards each time, and they should stop immediately if any pain occurs. Having the nails buffed with an emery board at a nail salon is not recommended, as this may trigger infection, and nail technicians are not trained to treat fingernail ridges. Emery boards only hide the ridges; they do not treat the underlying cause. Prior to buffing their nails, patients may wish to have their nail ridges examined by a doctor just to make sure using an emery board is safe for their needs.

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