6 reasons why white spots appear on the nails: what to do in each case

Leukonychia can affect one or more nails, the marks can be small or occupy a significant part of the plate, but in itself it is not dangerous – unlike some of the reasons leading to it.

“If the master handles sharp instruments carelessly, it can damage the skin under the nail bed,” says MD, dermatologist Dandy Engelman. This can happen, for example, if the cutter is used carelessly or if the cuticle is pushed back too aggressively with a metal pusher.

What to do: just let the nail grow out and if the marks appear again and again, change your manicure.

White marks may appear due to fungal infection. How to understand that the main thing is not in the “competence” of the nail stylist, but in the infection? It’s simple: the fungus also leads to thickening of the nails and their yellowing.

What to do: go to the doctor – most likely he will prescribe oral antifungals. Be patient – the nails will return to their original appearance in a few months.

Some experts believe that leukonychia develops due to a lack of calcium and zinc. “The nail plate is made up of various nutrients, and therefore their deficiency can manifest itself in this form,” says MD, dermatologist Michelle Green.

What to do: First, determine if it really is a mineral deficiency. The best way to do this is to get tested.

Pay attention to other symptoms too: low calcium levels can lead to dry skin, brittle nails, muscle spasms and memory problems, while zinc deficiency symptoms include hair loss, frequent colds, decreased appetite, slow wound healing and irritability.

Here are some medications that can interfere with nail growth or damage the nail bed:

What to do: ignore it or talk to your doctor about switching to other medications.

For example, size and arsenic – this can occur when a person inhales its vapors or eats contaminated food. White spots in this case will be the most harmless symptoms – in addition to them, poisoning will lead to headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, abdominal pain and cramps.

What to do: we are sure that even without our advice, you will immediately consult a doctor in such a situation.

Because of them, leukonychia rarely develops, but it also happens – usually with psoriasis, alopecia or eczema.

What to do: be treated! Of course, not independently, but under the supervision of a doctor.

Read also: Why the cuticle grows too fast and what to do about it: expert advice