Why Do My Nails Curve Down When They Get Long: Guide
Your nails aren’t the first place you’d think to check for evidence that you’re doing well in life, but they reveal a lot about your overall health and wellness. However, how do nails seem when they are healthy?
Dana Stern, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical School, tells SELF that white tips, a smooth finish, and a faint shine are what constitute “normal” fingernails. The undersides of your nails should be a fleshy pink, tan, or brown. Dr. Stern notes that the cuticles have survived and are thriving thanks to the presence of ample moisture.
Should I be concerned if my nails curve down when they get long?
Nail psoriasis and Raynaud’s illness, for example, are inflammatory disorders that can be diagnosed and treated based on the appearance of the nails. Nail curves aren’t usually caused for alarm, but it’s still smart to see a doctor just in case.
It’s crucial to get checked out right away if nail changes are accompanied by other symptoms. Various nail modifications, including nail curvature, are discussed in this article. We also investigate some potential reasons why.
Why do my nails curve down when they get long?
You probably wouldn’t look to your nails as the first place to find evidence that you’re doing well in life, but they actually reveal a lot about your state of health. What, though, does it look like when your nails are healthy?
First, “normal” fingernails, according to Dana Stern, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical School, should have white tips with a smooth finish and faint gloss. Nail beds should be a flesh tone, like pink, tan, or brown.
1. You have yellowed nails
Most often, Dr. Stern says, yellowing nails are the result of wearing nail paint. That’s good to hear. However, the presence of yellow nails might also be indicative of a rare disorder termed yellow nail syndrome, as reported by the National Organization for Rare Disorders.
Dr. Stern describes bronchiectasis as a disease in which the airways become enlarged, flaccid, and scarred as a result of repeated infections or other injuries. Nail development can be stunted as a result of poor circulation, which is often the result of an underlying health condition such as an infection.
According to Dr. Stern, “yellow nail syndrome tends to be chronic because bronchiectasis tends to be persistent.” When “oxygen, nutrients, and blood” are unable to reach the extremities due to lymphatic system dysfunction, yellow nail syndrome might develop, as explained by Dr. Stern.
2. A change occurs, and your fingernails become a vivid shade of blue or green
Blue or green discoloration of the nails may be a sign of several health issues. As an example, the AAD states that having blue nails may indicate a lack of oxygen in the blood, which can occur due to a wide variety of medical diseases like pneumonia.
However, poisoning is another possible cause of blue nails. (Usually, this happens with argyria, also known as silver poisoning, which develops after prolonged exposure to high levels of silver, such as in a profession involving silver production or through ingestion.
3. Your nail bed is sloping downward
Mount Sinai notes that a disorder called clubbing can manifest itself in nails that curve downward and have a pronounced rounded edge, like upside-down spoons. Even the tips of your fingers can become bloated or red from all the dancing you do at nightclubs. Softness in the nail beds and the impression that the nails aren’t firmly affixed can occur.
Numerous heart and lung conditions can lead to clubbing because of a shortage of oxygen in the circulation. While lung cancer is by far the most common cause of clubbed nails, congenital heart defects and lung infections are also possible culprits. Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease are two examples of inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders that could have this symptom.
4. Separation of the nails from the nail beds occurs
Known as onycholysis, this disorder rarely causes discomfort and is more common in people with longer nails. Nail trauma, like that caused by excessive filing or the irritation caused by chemicals used in manicures, is usually to blame. As reported by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), onycholysis can also be brought on by a nail fungus infection and is sometimes linked to psoriasis.
5. The middle of your nails are ridged
You may have a habit-tic nail trauma if you often pick at your cuticles, and you also have ridging or stripes in the center of your nails (which looks kind of like a washboard). According to Dawn Marie R. Davis, M.D., chair of clinical dermatology at the Mayo Clinic, “when people traumatize their cuticles, they mistakenly traumatize the cells in the matrix, and then the nail plate doesn’t grow out smoothly.
Nail problems that say something about your health?
The state of one’s fingernails is indicative of one’s general health. As a result of their discoloration, strength, and shape, we may learn a lot about what’s happening on the inside of our bodies. Curling nails not only mar the aesthetic appeal of the hands but may indicate respiratory illness such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, and even lung cancer.
1. Vitamins and minerals necessary to prevent bent nails
If your nails are curling, it’s a sign that you’re deficient in certain minerals and nutrients, most notably vitamin B12, vitamin D3, and iron. Include foods like spinach, cheese, and fish in your diet that are high in these nutrients. If it doesn’t help, you should see a doctor and try some prescription supplements. Also, read this: The Health Implications of Nail Texture and Color.
2. The miracle of protein: the role of essential proteins in preventing bent nails
You must acknowledge the importance of protein to your health. Whether your goal is healthy hair or healthy skin, boosting your protein consumption is a good idea. Your nails’ ability to curl will also benefit from a diet high in protein.
Consuming a higher protein diet has been shown to improve nail straightness. High-Protein Diets for Weight Loss: How to Reduce Carbohydrate Intake, an Expert Guide is Also Available.
3. Remove your cuticles
Maintaining healthy cuticles is essential for achieving beautiful nail beds. If you can, you should try to push them away. If you want your nails to curl, massaging the cuticles is another great technique. Read on to learn the other eight unusual uses for Epsom salt (Sendha Namak) that will improve your health and enhance your appearance.
4. Reduce your reliance on chemical inputs
Three times yes! We know how much you enjoy playing around with nail art and polish. But if you’re serious about battling curly nails, you should skip the chemical-laden products on the shelves. Curls in your nails may be the result of chemical interference with the natural biotin in your nails.
5. Trimming
As unattractive as curled nails may be, they also pose a serious health risk. Curling nails can be a major nuisance. They may become lodged, causing you further harm and hassle. Nail cutting is the most effective means of preventing this kind of problem from occurring. They can have a similarly polished appearance by doing this. The Three Secrets to Castor Oil’s Stunning Effects on Your Skin
6. Cover your nails if you don’t want them to curl
We aren’t suggesting a zip lock bag, by the way. However, it’s crucial to remember to cover them up when it’s necessary to do so, such as when cooking or doing housework. The PH balance of your nails can be altered by dust, making them even more drab and brittle. When it is necessary, use rubber gloves.
7. Biotin nail supplement to stop curling
Since it is a water-soluble vitamin, biotin can be transported easily and used without worry. This supplement can also be used to promote hair growth. Curling nails are a problem it has been shown to solve. Users have reported feeling better after using it. See your doctor about starting the medication.
Many people have benefited from it. Curling nails, whether inherited from your family or acquired through a deficiency in vitamins and minerals, can diminish the aesthetic value of your hands and perhaps lead to significant injury. It’s high time you began caring for them in this straightforward manner.
What are the different types of curved nails?
Nail salon goers have always been presented with a stark choice between square and round nail shapes within seconds of taking a seat. However, things are not so straightforward any longer.
The proliferation of influencers and celebrities donning unconventional manicure shapes has led to a greater diversity of nail art than ever before. Today, a well-executed manicure is judged not simply on the choice of nail color or the boldness of its design but on the shape of the nail itself (no pun intended).
1. Cute little squares
There’s no need to explain the square shape of the nail. Nails that are considered square have a flat top and four right angles on each corner. They are well-liked by persons who have either short nails or long, narrow nail beds because they neither flare out nor taper in.
According to Charlotte Knight, founder of Ciaté London, a nail care company, “square nails are often considered as beautiful and tidy but also low-maintenance.” If you want to make a statement, use a solid color in this shape.
2. Nails that are round
For individuals who like to keep their nails short, a traditional round shape is a great option. Choosing a circular nail shape “may elongate fingers,” as Knight puts it, “if you feel you have shorter fingers.” Round nails, like square ones, have parallel sides but curve outward to mimic the fingertip.
3. Skin cycling
Knight advises sticking with a round shape if you’re unsure of how to pull off a vivid color on your nails. She vouches that they look great with any nail polish color. Picture of a mani including a green base with white tips and orange and black nail art.
4. Oval-shaped nails
If you like the square shape but despise its harsh corners, squoval (square oval) nails are the way to go. According to Knight, this timeless, universally adored form flatters everyone. On the other hand, people who have wider and longer nail beds may find it particularly appealing because it will help bring everything into harmony.
5. Nails with an oval shape
Indeed, there are distinctions between round and oval nails. How? Read on! Nails that are oval in shape are shaped by filing down the sides in addition to the tips. In general, the longer the fingers appear, the more acute the curvature.
How to stop nails from curving?
Do any of your nails look different than they did a while back? Even though a seemingly innocuous alteration in color, texture, or form could be indicative of illness, it often isn’t. The following changes to fingernails or toenails warrant a trip to a dermatologist who is board-certified to treat these conditions.
1. A shady smear
If a fingernail or toenail develops a new or changing dark stripe, it’s important to contact a dermatologist for a skin cancer check. That dark streak could be melanoma, the most dangerous sort of skin cancer. Not every black streak is a melanoma, but it’s always advisable to have a dermatologist inspect one. If detected and treated quickly, it can be the only treatment you need.
2. Uplifting a nail
If a nail starts to lift up such that it’s no longer totally attached, you’ll likely observe white discoloration, as illustrated above. When a nail lifts. Punctured skin from a rough manicure Sharp item under nail injury prevention Any nail that is peeling or lifting should be checked by a dermatologist.
An infection may necessitate treatment in order to be cured. A dermatologist can also give you some recommendations that may help the new nail grow out naturally.
3. Nail bed inflammation and redness
Signs of infection include redness, swelling, and pain in the area around a nail. In most cases, medicines and soaks are well enough to treat an infection if caught early enough. If the wound becomes infected and starts bleeding, you’ll require more intensive care.
4. hues of green and black
Nail infections caused by bacteria can cause unsightly discoloration like the one seen here. A nail infection will worsen if not treated. Your discomfort and soreness can be alleviated, and the infection can be beaten with the right treatment.
5. Nails with pits
You may have a systemic condition if you have nail dents that seem like an icepick pushed into them.
6. Areata alopecia
It’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis from a dermatologist who is board-certified to do so. Dermatologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat these disorders. Treatment can help you feel more comfortable and prevent the disease from deteriorating.
7. Yellow nails
Wearing red nail paint without a base coat or smoking might make your nails yellow. If your nails turn yellow, thicken, and seem to stop growing, it could be a symptom of something going on inside your body. Lung disease and rheumatoid arthritis can create yellow nails. You may possibly have a significant nail infection, which requires treatment.
When to see doctor nails curve down?
There are indicators of general health problems in the fingernail appearance. Discolored fingernails, ridged fingernails, pitted fingernails, or curved fingernails could indicate a medical issue that needs medical attention.
If you have koilonychia, also known as spoon nails, in which your nails curve outward, asthma, and lung cancer. A shortage of oxygen can cause fingernails to curl downward. It’s also possible for them to have a bluish or yellowish hue. See a doctor if you have problems breathing and your fingernails are bent downward.
Watch Unbelievable transformation on natural nails | Video
People also ask questions and answers related to the why do my nails curve down when they get long?
As my nails develop, they always curve inward, why is that?
How can I avoid having my nails curl under?
can I grow my nails to a certain length, but then they start to bow?
Why have the tips of my fingernails started to curl inward?
why my fingernails are so brittle?
Conclusion
It is said that a person’s fate can be determined by studying the lines in their palm. Turning the handover, however, provides much more insight into a person’s health. Medical professionals think that a person’s fingernails can tell you a lot about their health by the changes they show in their shape, color, and general condition.
Alterations in the fingernails may be an indication of a more serious health problem, such as lung disease, nasal polyps, anemia, irritable bowel syndrome, or liver disease. Sometimes those shifts are enough to get people in for medical checkups, which can reveal underlying health issues that had been missed. In some cases, a doctor can get a better idea of what’s going on by looking at the patient’s nails.
