Habit tics are waves in the nail plate created by constant and repeated pressure.

Nervous, habitual or uncontrollable rubbing of the nail plate with other fingers.

Refrain from rubbing the nail.

Habit tic nails can be safely enhanced, but extreme caution should be taken to prevent further physical damage.

Splits are separations in the nail plate and/or matrix.

The result of an impact or blow to the nail plate. It can also result from damage to the matrix, causing the nail to split as it grows.

Avoid impacts or blows to the nail matrix or plate.

Splits can be safely enhanced when the split is minor and the nail bed is not exposed. If the nail bed is exposed, the nail should not be enhanced.

Ridges or grooves are small ridges or grooves running in the nail plate from the free edge to the eponychium.

Normal signs of aging in the nail plate.

There is no prevention since the normal aging process cannot be stopped.

Nails can be lightly buffed to reduce the appearance of ridges or grooves, but care should be taken not to overly thin the nail plate. Nails can be safely enhanced, but special care is needed.