'Holes' or 'dents' in my nails - why?

Question

My right middle finger and my left ring finger have 'holes' in them, like layers of the nail have been worn off. I've had them for ages and they don't look like afungus or anything similar to me.... what are they and why do you think they could have happened?

What makes you think it's ecezema(sp?) or psoriasis, matty_mo1?

I do get ecezema behind my ears and on y hands (especially in winter), but I didn't think it'd affect nails.

Josie, I'm ashamed to admit that I do indeed pick at my nails and cuticles rather often. Has anybody else ever had these 'dents' before?

If the dents have gone, how long did it take for them to go? Did you do anuything to make them go away faster?

2boys4dogs, I've not used false nails since.... July last year, I don't think.

I do the washing up without gloves on (I can't find any in our silly flat!!), but I only ever have a couple of things to wash at a time, so it';s not like I'm putting my hands in detergent for ages...

Answer 1

No it's none of those things but is damaged nail beds that cause this. So as the nail grows you can see the damage quite clearly. It's like an impression in concrete once your nail bed is damaged it will always leave an impression on your nail such as ridges.

You can buffer these dents and holes as you call them out for special occasions, but to disguise them for daily use apply a good nail vanish. Buffing the nails too often will only weaken the nails and make them more susceptible to breakage and split nails.

Damaged nail beds can happen very easily and care should be taken when cleaning, gardening and using harse cleaning liquids and pot scourers. Always wise to wear rubber gloves when washing up or do heavy house work.

If you doubt this I have lousy nails bascially because I have neglected them over the years. Whereas my friend has always worn either cotton gloves or rubber ones when doing heavy chores like gardening etc,. and she has the most beautiful nail imaginable not a ridge, lump or bump.

All is not lost your nails will look good if you have a good manicure and apply nail varnish & hand creme to keep the hands moisturised.

When ever I cut open a lemon I always apply the unsued portion to my hands...marvelous for lightening and keeping them supple.

Answer 2

I have exactly the same thing happening with my nails. Although, I bite my nails so that could be why, but in addition to that I had a really bad immune system and alopecia when the whole 'nail dent' stuff started happening to me a couple of years back. I'm fine now, but my nails are a bit torn and dented all the time.

I don't think it's anything too serious, just try to keep your nails trimmed(i.e don't grow them too long, it just doesn't work and they end up breaking and going all jaggy and eww) and try to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Eat lots of foods rich in protein, calcium and vitamin C as it always helps.

It's good to see that I'm not the only person in the world with crazy nails! lol!

Answer 3

If you have ever suffered with psoriasis you know the struggles of searching out relief. There are pricy over-the-counter products or prescription medications that may offer temporary relief. There are also quite a few natural cures for dealing with psoriasis.


You can find many interesting tips on this site http://psoriasis.toptips.org
I hope it helps

Answer 4

sometimes they are a result of damage done in the nail bed(the very soft tissue at the base of your nail) it is nothing to worry about it is just like a bruise on the skin but in a different form.do you subconsiously pick at or flick things that could do this damage or if you push back your cuticles you may be being too harsh.hope this helps.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

hi i have had the same problem for about 6 months. it is caused by malnutrition. i dont know what your eating habbits are like but i would skip meals and grab things to eat on the go.
My doctor has put me on vitamins and calcium tablets, she has also advised me to make sure i eat 3 times a day, lots of fruit nad ved and not to have much sugar.
i have been doing this rigorusly for 3 wks and my nails and hair are starting to look much better.

Answer 7

Did you recently get rid of fake nails? That could be it for sure.

Are you using a harsh detergent?

Lastly, maybe you are not getting enough vitamins? Or are taking something damaging? Look at webmd.com

Nails are a view into our heatlh.

Answer 8

your nails are probally unhealthy i used to be intrested in palm reading so i learned what certain signs on the nails meant and from what i understand it just sounds like your nails are not healthy i sugest trying a nail streangthening cream on them to see if that helps and you might just ask you docter next time your there

Answer 9

It's either eczema or psoriasis. it affects the nails. Just see a dermotologist.

Answer 10

They produce lines in them when you are under stress. Sometimes quite rigid lines and sometimes nearly holes. I would also increase your calcium intake.