When you hold a cosmetology license, friends often come to you with their beauty dilemmas, much like they would consult a doctor. So here I am, ready to tackle the curious case of white spots on nails, much like my friend, Jenna, who was understandably anxious about her toenail.
Jenna approached me, visibly worried about the white spots on her big toe. I took a moment to examine her nail before bursting into laughter—it wasn’t a fungal infection, but rather a case of leukonychia. Despite its daunting name, leukonychia is quite common and harmless.
The term leukonychia derives from the Greek words for “white nails,” aptly describing the condition. These white spots usually arise from minor trauma to the nail matrix, the area at the base of the nail where growth occurs. Most likely, Jenna had stubbed her toe or dropped something on it, and the injury was long forgotten by the time the white spots emerged. Keep in mind that it can take several weeks for these spots to grow out and become visible.
There is no specific treatment for leukonychia—time is the only healer here. In the meantime, a coat of dark nail polish can help disguise the spots while they grow out.
However, if the white spots appear larger or have a chalky texture, it could indicate dehydration. This means you might not be drinking enough water, or your nails could be suffering from prolonged exposure to nail polish without proper hydration. Nail polish can strip moisture from your nails, and using acetone-based removers excessively can worsen the condition. It’s wise to give your nails a breather for a few weeks and focus on moisturizing them effectively.
If you notice changes such as thickening, brittleness, unusual odors, or yellowing, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately. And, Jenna, if you’re reading this, please refrain from showing me your nail issues—let’s keep our friendship fungus-free!
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In summary, white spots on your nails are usually harmless and result from minor injuries. Keep an eye on your nail health, ensure proper hydration, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice for any concerning changes.