What are corrugations in the context of nail health?

Corrugations refer to horizontal wavy ridges that occur across the nail plate. This condition can be indicative of underlying issues such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, or systemic health problems. These abnormal contours often arise from disruption in the normal growth of the nail and can vary in severity and appearance.

In contrast, vertical splits along the nail are characterized by lengthwise cracks that may be associated with dryness or trauma to the nail. Discoloration of the nail bed can represent different health conditions but isn't related to the texture or shape of the nail. Thickening of the nail plate, known as hypertrophy, often occurs due to infections or other nail disorders but does not reflect the corrugation condition's characteristic wavy pattern. Understanding the nature of corrugations assists nail technicians in identifying possible health issues and addressing client concerns more effectively.