Why toenails get thicker as you age – and how to care of them

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Many people notice that their toenails become thicker as they get older. Here are the reasons behind this change and what you should be aware of.

Toenails can become harder with age. This happens gradually and can make routine nail care more difficult.

According to My Personal Beauty, one reason is that nails renew themselves more slowly over the years.

At the same time, feet are exposed to daily pressure from walking and footwear, which can affect the structure of the nails.

Care requires caution

When nails become very hard, it can be tempting to use extra force when trimming them. However, this can increase the risk of small injuries to the skin around the nail.

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My Personal Beauty therefore recommends softening the nails first.

A lukewarm foot bath for 10 to 15 minutes can make the nail more flexible and easier to trim.

Moisturizing creams or oils can also help keep nails softer over time.

People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation should be especially careful and seek advice from a healthcare professional if needed.

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More than a cosmetic issue

If a nail changes color, becomes very thick, causes pain, or changes shape, it may be necessary to have it examined by a doctor or podiatrist.

In some cases, fungal infections, circulation problems, or other medical conditions may also play a role.

Therefore, good nail care is not only about appearance but also about preventing pain and foot-related problems.

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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.

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