What causes white spots on toenails. How to identify different types of toenail discoloration. When to seek professional treatment for white toenails. What are effective home remedies for white spots on toenails. How to prevent white toenail spots from recurring.

Common Causes of White Toenails and Spots

White spots or discoloration on toenails can be alarming, but they’re often harmless and treatable. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for proper care and prevention. Here are some of the most common reasons for white toenails:

• Fungal infections (onychomycosis)
• Psoriasis
• Mineral deficiencies
• Nail polish overuse
• Injuries or trauma to the nail

Fungal Infections: A Leading Cause of White Toenails

Onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, is a frequent culprit behind white spots on toenails. This condition typically presents as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip or side of the toenail. If left untreated, it can progress, causing:

• Discoloration
• Thick white debris under the toenail
• Nail thickening and crumbling
• Spread to surrounding nails and skin

Can toenail fungus spread to other parts of the body? Yes, it can. The infection may extend to the skin between the toes, causing athlete’s foot (tinea pedis). In severe cases, it can lead to swelling, pain, and bleeding around the nails, making walking difficult.

Toenail Psoriasis: Beyond Skin Deep

Approximately 80 to 90 percent of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis. Interestingly, it’s possible to have nail psoriasis without exhibiting signs of the skin condition. Toenail psoriasis can manifest in various ways, including:

• White patches on toenails
• Tiny dents or pits in the affected toenails
• Yellow or brown discoloration
• Thick white buildup under the toenail
• Blood under the nail
• Crumbling toenails
• Toenails separating from the skin of the nailbed

Mineral Deficiencies and White Toenails

When most of a toenail appears white, except for the tip, it could indicate a mineral deficiency. Both iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency can cause white nails that are thin and brittle. However, it’s important to note that you’ll typically notice other symptoms of these deficiencies before observing changes in your nails.

Is it safe to self-treat suspected mineral deficiencies? No, it’s not recommended. Self-treating with mineral supplements without proper diagnosis can be detrimental to your health and potentially lead to dangerous overdoses. Always consult a medical professional if you suspect a mineral deficiency.

The Impact of Nail Polish on Toenail Health

Have you ever removed your toenail polish only to find white spots underneath? This common occurrence is often a result of overusing nail polish and can lead to more serious issues if not addressed.

Keratin Granulations: The Chalky Culprit

The white, chalky appearance on toenails after removing polish is often due to keratin granulations. These are dehydrated superficial layers of nail cells that result in white, rough, and uneven dry patches on the nail surface. Prolonged use of nail polish and acetone-based removers can significantly dry out your toenails, leading to this condition.

Can keratin granulations lead to more serious problems? Yes, they can. If left untreated, keratin granulations can create an environment conducive to fungal growth, potentially leading to toenail fungus.

Identifying and Treating White Spots on Toenails

Distinguishing between different causes of white spots on toenails is crucial for effective treatment. Here’s how to identify and address some common issues:

Fungal Infections

Symptoms of fungal infections include:

• White or yellow-brown spots under the nail tip or side
• Thickening and crumbling of the nail
• Spread to surrounding nails

Treatment often involves antifungal medications, either topical or oral, prescribed by a podiatrist.

Psoriasis

Nail psoriasis may present as:

• White patches on toenails
• Pitting or dents in the nail surface
• Discoloration (yellow or brown)
• Thickening or crumbling of nails

Treatment typically involves topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, or systemic medications in severe cases.

Keratin Granulations

These appear as white, chalky patches on the nail surface after removing nail polish. To treat keratin granulations:

1. Give your nails a break from polish
2. Use hydrating nail oils or creams
3. Avoid acetone-based nail polish removers

When to Seek Professional Treatment for White Toenails

While some cases of white spots on toenails can be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Consider consulting a podiatrist if:

• The white spots persist or worsen despite home treatment
• You’re unsure if the spots are due to keratin granulations or fungus
• You have diabetes or a compromised immune system
• You experience pain, swelling, or bleeding around the nails
• The nail begins to separate from the nail bed

Why is professional diagnosis important? A podiatrist can accurately identify the cause of your white toenails and provide targeted treatment, preventing potential complications and ensuring faster recovery.

Preventing White Spots and Maintaining Healthy Toenails

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to toenail health. Here are some tips to keep your toenails healthy and white-spot-free:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Trim nails regularly and straight across
• Wear breathable footwear
• Use antifungal sprays or powders in shoes
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Give your nails regular breaks from polish
• Use non-acetone nail polish removers
• Moisturize your nails and cuticles

How often should you give your nails a break from polish? It’s recommended to go polish-free for at least a week every month to allow your nails to breathe and recover.

The Role of Diet in Toenail Health

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy toenails. Certain nutrients are essential for strong, resilient nails that are less prone to discoloration and damage.

Key Nutrients for Healthy Toenails

• Biotin: Strengthens nails and promotes growth
• Zinc: Supports nail growth and repair
• Iron: Prevents brittle nails and discoloration
• Vitamin E: Moisturizes and protects nails
• Protein: Provides building blocks for nail tissue

Which foods are rich in these nail-boosting nutrients? Include the following in your diet:

• Eggs and dairy products (biotin)
• Lean meats and seafood (zinc and protein)
• Leafy greens and legumes (iron)
• Nuts and seeds (vitamin E)
• Whole grains (various minerals)

Can dietary changes alone cure white spots on toenails? While a balanced diet supports overall nail health, it’s not a substitute for proper treatment of existing conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent nail issues.

Advanced Treatments for Stubborn White Spots

In some cases, white spots on toenails may persist despite conventional treatments. For these stubborn cases, podiatrists may recommend more advanced therapies:

Laser Therapy

Laser treatments can be effective in treating fungal infections that cause white spots. This non-invasive procedure uses focused light to eliminate the fungus without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Photodynamic Therapy

This treatment combines light therapy with a photosensitizing agent to target and destroy fungal cells. It can be particularly effective for resistant fungal infections.

Nail Removal

In severe cases, particularly with chronic fungal infections, partial or complete nail removal may be necessary. This allows for direct treatment of the nail bed and regrowth of a healthy nail.

Are these advanced treatments suitable for everyone? No, the appropriateness of these treatments depends on individual cases. Factors such as the severity of the condition, overall health, and potential risks are considered before recommending advanced therapies.

The Psychological Impact of Toenail Discoloration

While often considered a cosmetic issue, white spots and discoloration on toenails can have significant psychological effects. Many individuals experience:

• Decreased self-confidence
• Anxiety about showing their feet
• Reduced participation in activities that expose feet
• Negative impact on personal relationships

How can one cope with the emotional aspects of toenail discoloration? Here are some strategies:

1. Seek professional treatment to address the underlying cause
2. Practice self-acceptance and positive self-talk
3. Use temporary cosmetic solutions like nail polish (when appropriate)
4. Join support groups or online communities for shared experiences
5. Consider counseling if the issue significantly affects your quality of life

Remember, many toenail conditions are treatable, and seeking help is a proactive step towards both physical and emotional well-being.

White spots on toenails, while common, can signify various underlying conditions ranging from minor cosmetic issues to more serious health concerns. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can maintain healthy, attractive toenails. Remember that prevention through proper nail care and a balanced diet is key to avoiding many toenail issues. If you’re concerned about white spots or any changes in your toenails, don’t hesitate to consult a podiatrist or healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

White Toenails & White Spots on Toenails, Explained

Have you ever looked down at your bare feet and asked yourself why are my toenails white all of a sudden? If so, you’re not alone. While common, white spots on toenails or toenails that turn white could be a sign of fungus or something else entirely.

What causes white toenails?

From fungal infections and psoriasis to nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies, there are a number of causes for white spots on toenails.

White Toenail Fungus

Officially called onychomycosis, nail fungus is a common cause of white spots on toenails. A toenail fungal infection typically presents as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip or side of your toenail and, if mild, may resolve on its own. If the toenail fungus progresses, it can go deeper into the nail, causing discoloration, thick white stuff under the toenail (keratin debris), nail thickening and crumbling, and even transmission to surrounding nails. The infection can even spread to the skin between the toes and other parts of your feet, which is commonly called athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible to stop the toenail fungus in its tracks before developing complications, such as swelling, pain, and bleeding around the nails, difficulty walking or more serious infection (particularly if you’re diabetic).

Toenail Psoriasis

Approximately 80 to 90 percent of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis, though it’s possible to have nail psoriasis without exhibiting signs of the skin condition. Nail psoriasis presents in a number of ways – not just as white patches on toenails. In addition to white spots, toenail psoriasis can cause tiny dents or pits in the affected toenails, yellow or brown discoloration, thick white buildup under the toenail, blood under the nail, crumbling toenails and toenails that separate from the skin of the nailbed.

Mineral Deficiencies

If most of a toenail appears white – except for the tip – you may have a mineral deficiency that is causing the discoloration. Both iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency can cause white nails that are thin and brittle. While mineral deficiencies’ effects on the nails are common, you will typically notice other symptoms of an iron or zinc deficiency before you see a white nail.

In either case, it’s important to see a medical professional if you suspect you have a mineral deficiency. While it may seem obvious to self-treat a perceived deficiency with mineral supplements, doing so can be detrimental to your health and can even lead to a dangerous overdose. To truly know what’s causing your symptoms (including white nails), your doctor will most likely run bloodwork to check your levels before devising a treatment plan.

Do you have white spots on your toenails after removing polish?

If you’ve ever removed your toenail polish to find white spots on your nails, you might have been a bit alarmed at the sudden change in your nails. This reaction is understandable – but these spots are common for anyone who overuses toenail polish. While the presence of these spots isn’t serious, they are a sign it’s time to give the polish a break. There are a couple of reasons why.

First of all, these white, chalky toenails are the result of keratin granulations on the surface of your toenails. Keratin granulations are dehydrated superficial layers of nail cells that result in white, rough, and uneven dry patches on the top of the nail. Prolonged use of nail polish – as well as acetone-based nail polish removers – dries out the surface of your toenails and can lead to these keratin granulations.

Secondly, if left untreated, keratin granulations can open the door to toenail fungus (see above). That’s because when the surface of the toenail is this dehydrated, it creates the perfect atmosphere for fungus to take root in the nail plate. To prevent this from happening, it’s vital to give your nails a break from polish (and polish remover) and rehydrate your nails.

It’s important to note that it can be difficult to tell if those white spots on your toenails after removing polish are keratin granulations or fungus. If you think it might be a toenail fungus, you should see a podiatrist right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When to Seek Treatment for White Toenails

If you’re not 100% positive the white spots on your toenails are keratin granulations that can be treated at home by rehydrating your nails, it’s best to see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment. If the white spots on your toenails are keratin granulations and you neglect to treat them (or continue to wear polish), you’re likely to develop a fungal infection. Ultimately, the safest course of action is to seek professional treatment from a local podiatrist to nip any complications in the bud or just in case your white toenails are due to toenail psoriasis or mineral deficiencies.

How to Remove White Spots on the Toenails

How-To, Pedicure, Tips & Tricks / By

Paola

Is this fungus? How did this happen to my toenail? How can I treat it? Is it permanent? Can it be prevented?

If you are one of many nail gals who love to get their toenails done relatively often but also leave your polish on your toenails for more than 3 weeks because, hello, polish on toenails lasts like 5 times longer than on the fingernails… then you may very well be familiar with this unsightly striation on the toenails.

So, is it fungus?

Let me put your mind at ease. If all you see is this on your toenails, as unsightly as this is, it is not fungus.

The striation on the nails is basically flaking of the nail layers. 

The easiest, most effective way to remove white spots from the nails after removing your polish is to use an efile with a fine or extra fine ceramic bit.

If you’re just DIY and just need a super affordable option I recommend:

This portable, handheld one, with this x-fine ceramic bit. (the extra fine bit can help you avoid removing way too much of your natural nail)

[If you’re a professional and would like to invest in a long term efile, I cannot recommend enough, the South Korean Brand Saeshin.

I personally own this corded option (below), and if you would like a cordless option this is the one. This site also offers a fine ceramic bit, and my favorite ingrown nail tool. (You can save 5% on equipment with affiliate code PPN5, and 10% storewide with code PPN10)

I consider this efile as one of the best options for nail techs of all levels, at an unbeatable price. If you want something that will last you years, without breaking the bank, look no further. It’s the one I own and use regularly. Made in South Korea.

How did this happen? 

The damage to the nail is actually very superficial and nothing to be worried about (in my experience!).

This superficial damage to the toenail can result from excessively buffing the nail and applying a very acidic product to it. 

But most often than not, having dealt with many a set of feet in the salon, it is due to clients leaving the same nail polish on the toenails for well over 3 weeks. 

It was especially noticeable in those clients that kept their polish on for longer than 5 weeks. Below is a transformation of exactly this. I used an efile and the ceramic bit to remove the flakiness off of the nails.

That’s right. If the nail polish is not refreshed ( Removed and reapplied) every 3 weeks, there is a good chance of this happening on your toenails.

My pedi clients were super loyal and clearly able to see and test this theory (actual client above). 

I’m no chemist, but it is as though the polish breaks the nail down the older it gets and creates white spots/flakiness on the nail.

Now, if your toenails are slightly yellow, that usually happened to me and my clients because of the lack UV (sun) hitting the toenails.

UV maintains the natural color of your nails. So if you like dark polish colors try to also use open toe sandals to allow for some UV exposure, or alternate between light and dark colors each time you do your pedi. (This client also had a small bruise on her right toenail, which is that reddish mark you see there.)

Because I especially couldn’t expect my clients to come in every 3 weeks for a Pedi. I simply asked them to remove their nail polish at home after 3 weeks to avoid discoloration and this flaking. 

This can also happen on your fingernails, but it is less commonly caused by polish and more than likely caused by pulling off products from the nails, like gels and acrylics.

Can this be treated? and how soon can the nail recover?

The best way to get rid of this is to use a ceramic bit and efile in a vertical direction and begin removing it with very minimal pressure. Be really careful not to over-thin the nails!

You can scrape it off but sealing the nail with a ceramic bit guarantees no re-emerging of the flaking (at least in my experience with clients at the salon). If you just buff off with a gritty sponge buffer or file, you will be etching the nail, and these flakes and ridges will return.

A yellow band means xtra fine, and a red band means fine. I would not use anything coarser on natural nails. Any shape is fine, as long as it is ceramic material.

If you absolutely cannot get or work with an efile then you will have to seal the nail with a 4-way shining buffer, starting with the most coarse side and working your way to the fine grit (follow the numbers). Here’s one I recommend from Amazon (below).

You can also avoid this from happening by using gel color on the toenails. Leaving gel color on the toenails past 3 weeks did not cause that striation/ white spots damage to my clients, especially when the gel color was removed with an efile.

If you want a DIY efile, any Melodysusie efile would do the job. This handheld one is a good option. (Notice: it may come with all these extra bits, but you specifically need a ceramic bit, or the white spots will return because you will be causing more shredding to the nail. )

Is this damage permanent?

No, the damage you removed should not return significantly if you sealed the nail with a ceramic bit or 4-way shining buffer (if electric tools completely freak you out). Keep the nails without nail color for a few days or even weeks just so that you can see for yourself the improvement.

How to prevent these white spots on toenails from recurring?

Be gentle to your toenails by not buffing or allowing your tech to rough prep your nails with gritty buffers, files, or sanding bands. Remove or refresh the nail polish every 3 weeks. (Old polish is what causes these white spots/marks, not new fresh coats of nail color).

Would you like to learn my signature pedi salon procedure. Sign up to the waitlist of my upcoming pedicure course. You’ll be the first to know when it launches and get it at the best price! SIGN UP HERE

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White spots of nails – clinic “Family Doctor”.

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White spots on the nails are quite common and usually not dangerous. Many people have had such spots at least once in their lives.

The medical name for this phenomenon is leukonychia, and its manifestation on the nails most often does not result from a serious illness.

White spots can be different in appearance: thin dots, wide lines, lines crossing the nail, or individual wide spots.

Causes of white spots on nails

1) Allergic reaction

Allergic reaction to ingredients in nail polish, gloss, hardener, or stripper.

2) Nail fungus (onychomycosis)

When white superficial onychomycosis appears, the first sign of infection may be small white dots on the nail. Usually, the infection gradually captures the entire nail and spreads to the nail bed. Additionally, toenails can become flaky and then thick and brittle.

3) Damage to the nail

The most common cause of white spots is damage to the nail bed, which can occur with injections, blows, and pinching of the nail or finger. Frequent manicures, pedicures, gel or acrylic nails can also damage the nail bed. Damage to the base of the nail can result in white dots and spots as the nail grows. But, since the growth time of the nail is long, it can be difficult to independently associate damage with subsequent manifestations. Some damage may not appear until 4 weeks later.

4) Lack of minerals

A lack of minerals such as zinc and calcium in the body can cause white spots.

5) Other reasons

The most rare causes of white spots on the nails are: heart disease, poor health, liver or kidney failure, psoriasis or eczema, pneumonia, arsenic poisoning.

Diagnostics

If white spots appear infrequently and the most likely cause is trauma, then there is no need to visit a doctor.

If spots are constantly present on the nails or they become larger, then it is worth consulting with a specialist. Most of the causes of white spots are easily eliminated with proper diagnosis.

At the appointment, the doctor will examine your nails, as well as your hands or feet. Based on the examination, a diagnosis will be suggested, if necessary, additional tests and treatment will be prescribed.

Treatment

Treatment directly depends on the cause of the white spots. In case of an allergic reaction, the use of varnishes, gels, etc. is stopped. In the case of fungus, appropriate antifungal agents are used. Injury to the nail requires time for healing and preventive measures.

Author of the publication: Betekhtin Mikhail Sergeevich, dermatovenereologist, Ph.D.

To make an appointment with a specialist, call the single contact center in Moscow +7 (495) 775 75 66, use the online appointment service to see a doctor, or contact the clinic’s receptionist.

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White spots on nails: why they appear and how to get rid of them

Beauty

Author

Nadezhda Gurina

September 25, 2022

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on nails do not appear due to calcium deficiency. Most often it is due to injury or bad habits

The medical name for white dots on the nails is leukonychia. As a rule, it does not cause any discomfort and does not require special treatment. It is enough to wait until the nail grows back. In more rare cases, this pathology indicates systemic diseases or severe poisoning. We learned from experts how to get rid of whiteheads and when to see a doctor.

• What is
• Causes
• How to get rid of
• Prophylaxis

Experts in this article:

• Maria Kulikova, expert of the Butterfly Children Foundation, dermatologist, PhD, head of the consultative and diagnostic department of the Ulyanovsk Regional Clinical Dermatovenerological Dispensary;
• Yulia Galliamova, MD, Professor, Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education

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What are white spots on the nails

White spots on the nails (leukonychia) is a condition in which a white pigment of different shapes and intensity appears on the nail plates of the hands and feet. In some people, these are tiny dots, in others one or more stripes appear, sometimes the nails turn completely white. Leukonychia can occur at any age and affect either multiple nails or all at once. It does not bring pain, itching, burning or other unpleasant sensations, and the points themselves are not dangerous. But, if the condition worsens, and the episodes recur, a doctor’s consultation is required.

Usually white dots on the nails are temporary

© shutterstock

Healthy nails have a uniform structure and a light pink color with a white semicircle at the base – a lunula. This is the visible part of the matrix – that part of the nail where new cells are constantly being formed. As you move to the free edge (it is filed on a manicure), these cells form the nail plate. It is almost 100% keratin protein with small layers of fat and water. The nail fits snugly to the bed – an area of ​​​​skin with capillaries. When for some reason a failure occurs in the process of keratinization of the plate, white spots appear.

There are three types of leukonychia, which differ in where the disorders occur [1].

1. True occurs when the formation of cells in the matrix and keratinization of the plate is disturbed, for example, with severe bruising, compression or pinching of the phalanx. In this case, the damaged cells also move towards the free edge, but in the form of a white spot.
2. False is not related to the work of the matrix. More often it is caused by changes occurring in the nail plate or bed. The most common cause is related to separation of the plate from the nail bed. Air enters the formed cavity, and we see it as a white speck.
3. Pseudoleukonychia is the result of other external factors, such as a fungal infection.

According to the intensity of the pigment and its shape, true leukonychia is divided into three types.

• Total – the nail plate becomes completely white, and the changes affect all fingers and toes.
• Spot – single dots or their accumulation appear on one, several or all nails at once. Considered the most common type.
• Striped — one or more lines run parallel to the lunula. This type of leukonychia is most characteristic, including in heavy metal poisoning.

There is a simple test to recognize a particular type of leukonychia. It is enough to press on the white spot: if it does not disappear, then this is true leukonychia, and vice versa [2].

How to grow long and strong nails. Manual

Why white spots appear on the nails

Factors that provoke leukonychia are divided into external and internal. The most common of these are as follows.

External factors:

• damage caused by aggressive and not neat manicure/pedicure;
• contusion, pinching, strong compression and other similar injuries of the matrix zone;
• nail biting;
• prolonged contact with household chemicals, the use of low-quality varnishes and washes;
• white dots on toenails may occur from shoes that are too tight.

Internal factors:

• taking antibiotics with sulfonamides, as well as chemotherapy drugs;
• lead or arsenic poisoning;
• systemic disorders, such as anemia, or endocrine problems;
• kidney pathology, liver cirrhosis and diabetes mellitus;
• fungal infections and dermatological problems – eczema or psoriasis;
• rare hereditary diseases;
• certain viral and infectious diseases associated with high fever, such as measles and malaria.

Maria Kulikova:

“In children, as a rule, white spots on the nails appear after injuries or because of the habit of biting them. In adulthood, leukonychia is more associated with poor-quality manicure, frequent nail extensions, smoking, and past viruses. Older people are prone to it due to chronic diseases, as well as long-term use of medicinal drugs that lead to metabolic disorders.”

How to get rid of white spots on the nails

Julia Galliamova:

“In most cases, leukonychia is an already accomplished damage at the matrix level, so there are no special methods of treatment. It is necessary to wait until the nails grow back. On average, their complete renewal on the hands takes from six to nine months, on the legs a little longer. It is worth contacting a specialist if total leukonychia is noted. It is necessary to exclude the pathology of the kidneys, liver and intestines, which is accompanied by insufficient protein absorption. In rare cases, total leukonychia is caused by long-term treatment with chemotherapy drugs.

Do not attempt to file or sand the white dots, this will only cause further damage to the plate.

The treatment of white spots depends on the cause

© shutterstock

For a better recovery, Maria Kulikova advises to enrich the diet and take good care of your nails.

• Get protein. Nails are based on keratin. For its formation, the body must receive a sufficient amount of complete protein. Its source is animal and plant foods: meat, fish and dairy products, as well as leafy vegetables, nuts and legumes.
• Introduce omega-3s into your diet. These polyunsaturated fatty acids also promote nutrition and healthy nail growth. The main source of Omega-3s is seafood, especially cod liver, salmon, and tuna. This element can also be found in flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, and nuts.