Health
Nail Health Clues You Should Never Ignore
Health Points
- Nails offer more than cosmetic appeal—they protect fingers and toes and can reveal important health information.
- A sudden, dark vertical line on your nail may be a sign of nail unit melanoma, a rare but serious type of skin cancer.
- Regularly checking bare nails helps spot changes early, making it easier to seek timely expert advice.
Our nails do more than help us with daily tasks—they can serve as early warning signs for several health concerns.
According to Dr. Shari Lipner, a dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medical Center, monitoring nail color, shape, and texture is a valuable step in catching underlying issues early.
Dermatologist’s Caution: Take Any New Nail Line Seriously
If you spot a fresh, dark brown or black streak running down your nail, don’t dismiss it.
“Rarely, it can also be a sign of a nail cancer called a nail unit melanoma,” explains Dr. Lipner.
This form of skin cancer, though uncommon overall, disproportionately affects people with darker skin. It tends to develop as a thin vertical streak and often gets noticed late due to its subtle appearance.
Most lines and streaks are harmless, stemming from past injuries or natural changes, but getting a sudden or changing stripe checked by a dermatologist is crucial.
How to Keep Your Nails in Check
Regular nail checks help keep you informed about your health. Dr. Lipner suggests taking breaks from nail polish to carefully inspect your natural nails about once a month.
Look for any new growths, discoloration, changes in texture, or signs of lifting. While many changes are benign, it’s always wise to mention them during a doctor visit, especially if something new appears.
Prioritizing these quick self-checks supports both nail health and your overall wellness.
Stay proactive—your hands can say more about your health than you realize!