Your nails are more than just a canvas for the latest glazed-doughnut manicure or a moody merlot polish—they’re little health barometers, quietly revealing what’s happening beneath the surface of your skin. And while we love a fresh set of almond-shaped gels or a milky nude moment, tuning in to your natural nails every so often can offer surprising insights into your overall well-being.
From nutrient deficiencies to hormone imbalances, here’s what your nails might be trying to tell you—before your next mani appointment.
Brittle, cracking, or peeling nails? Your body might be dehydrated or lacking key nutrients
If your nails break faster than a celebrity skincare secret, it could be a sign that something’s off. Brittle nails often point to a lack of moisture or a deficiency in biotin, iron, or B vitamins—particularly B12 and folate.
THE FIX: Boost your intake of leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and whole grains, and consider a biotin supplement (but always check with your doctor first). Also, hydration is key—not just for your skin but for your nails too. Drink your water and moisturize your hands daily, ideally with a cuticle oil or nail-strengthening cream.
White spots? Probably not what you think
Contrary to beauty myths passed down in middle school locker rooms, those little white marks (called leukonychia) aren’t a sign of calcium deficiency. They’re usually caused by mild trauma—like banging your nail on a hard surface or aggressive gel removal.
THE FIX: Be gentler on your nails during polish changes, and try to avoid picking or prying at gels and acrylics. If the white spots persist or cover the entire nail, however, it could be a signal of a zinc deficiency or a more serious underlying condition. Consult your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Vertical ridges are (mostly) normal—but here’s when to be concerned
Thin vertical ridges that run from your cuticle to the tip of your nail? Totally normal, especially as we age. Think of them like laugh lines for your hands.
However, if the ridges are deep, sudden, or accompanied by color changes, splitting, or pain, it could indicate anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, or other systemic concerns.
THE FIX: If you’re worried, ask your doctor for a routine blood panel. Otherwise, keep your nails hydrated and well-buffed to smooth the surface.
Yellow nails could signal a fungal infection—or something more serious
We love a golden hour glow, but yellowing nails? Not so much. The most common culprit is a fungal infection, particularly if the nail thickens, lifts from the nail bed, or crumbles. However, yellow nails can also be a symptom of psoriasis, thyroid conditions, or chronic bronchitis.
THE FIX: See a dermatologist to rule out infection or autoimmune issues. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments can help with early-stage cases, but persistent yellowing should be evaluated professionally.
Spoon-shaped nails (Koilonychia)? Think iron deficiency
If your nails are so concave they could hold a drop of water, you may be dealing with iron-deficiency anemia. Known as koilonychia, this condition reflects low iron levels and often comes with fatigue, cold hands and feet, or pale skin.
THE FIX: Add more iron-rich foods to your diet—think spinach, lentils, and red meat—and talk to your doctor about getting your ferritin levels tested.
Horizontal lines or dents? Your body hit pause
Horizontal lines across the nail, known as Beau’s lines, can develop when your body has experienced serious stress—think a high fever, major illness, or even COVID-19. It’s like your nails hit the brakes during recovery.
THE FIX: These lines typically grow out over time, but they serve as a powerful reminder to check in with your body’s stress and recovery cycles. If the lines appear on multiple nails or recur often, it may be worth investigating further with your physician.
Dark streaks or discolouration? Time to see a doctor
A dark vertical stripe under the nail could be benign—especially in women with darker skin tones—but in rare cases, it may signal subungual melanoma, a rare form of skin cancer that starts in the nail bed.
THE FIX: If you notice a new dark line, especially if it changes shape or color, or the skin around it becomes discolored, make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately. Early detection is key.
The takeaway: Listen to your nails like you’d listen to your skin
Just as you wouldn’t ignore sudden acne, excessive hair shedding, or a rash, your nails deserve the same attention. They’re like health mood rings—reflecting not just your beauty routine but your internal balance, too.
So while your next appointment might be all about trending nail art or the perfect oval shape, don’t forget to glance at your natural nails first. They just might be telling you something important.
And yes—go ahead and book that mani. But maybe pair it with a blood test and a green juice, just to be safe.
