What are common nail diseases, and how can you get the best treatment for your diseases Your nails, just like your hair and superficial skin layers, are formed by keratin. Fingernails protect the sensitive tips of your fingers from accidental trauma. These are formed by the layer of germinal tissue, known as the nail matrix, which can be found at the base of the nail, or hidden under the skin fold. Nail matrix is part of the nail bed which supports and nourishes the nail plate. It is part of the nail bed which supports and nourishes the nail plate. Here, we will discuss about some of the common nail diseases that people suffer from, and how to save on their treatment costs, along with other diseases. Some of the common nail diseases include: Nail discoloration The normal nail is pale pink in color. Your nail can become discolored due to many reasons such as smoking, use of hair dyes on the nails, injury of the nail bed, infection of the nail bed, and renal failure in which it will become half-and-half. Ingrown nails This condition is characterized by nails growing into the skin at the sides of your nails. You will feel pain, and your nails become predisposed to infection. Nail splitting Your nail will flake into layers as it grows. This may occur due to the constant application and removal of nail polish, overuse of the fingernails, and constant exposure to water. Nail ridges The longitudinal ridges of your nails will run down the nail. The condition may occur due to many systematic conditions, such as aging, eczema, trauma, malnutrition, severe anemia, and rheumatoid arthritis. Nail thickening Thickening of the toenails due to aging is normal, but an abnormal thickening of nails may occur due to many reasons such as injury, fungal infection, tight shoes, arthritis, psoriasis, and abnormal gait.