Whether you love bright and gaudy trends, are into the era of geometric prints, or even if you prefer neutral, solid and elegant colors, Strong and healthy nails are the basis of a good manicure,
a common problem that can appear suddenly white spots on nails, But what causes these mysterious spots on the nail bed? The experts answer.
What is the meaning of white spots on the nails and how to avoid them.
Why do white spots appear on the nails?
white patches on the nails, also known as leukonychiaThey react for many reasons. People often think that this is because of any type of vitamin deficiencyand they’re not wrong, but The most common cause is injury to the nail bed., i.e. the base of the nail or the skin underneath. Some of the more common causes include:
- traumaMinor injuries to the nails, such as hitting them against a hard surface or biting them, can lead to the appearance of white spots. These spots are usually harmless and disappear as the nail grows.
- nutritional deficienciesDeficiencies in certain nutrients in the diet, such as zinc or calcium, can result in white spots on the nails.
- fungal infectionFungal nail infections can cause white spots, along with other symptoms such as thickening of the nail, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed.
- AllergiesSome people may develop white spots on their nails as a result of an allergic reaction to certain chemicals or products.
- Psoriasis or Eczema: Psoriasis and eczema can appear on both the nails and the skin, causing the nails to turn white. Nail psoriasis can also cause various changes in the nail, including pits, ridges, thickening and discoloration. Eczema can also cause discoloration, streaking, or thickening of the skin. It is best to consult a dermatologist who will be able to advise you on the appropriate treatment on a case by case basis.
- other diseases: Certain diseases, such as liver or kidney diseases, or even heavy metal poisoning (arsenic) can cause white spots on the nail plates.
- drug side effectsSome medicines can cause white spots on the nails. These include chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer, sulfonamides used to treat bacterial infections, pain relievers for arthritis, diabetes drugs, etc.
In most cases, white spots on nails are harmless and go away on their own. However, if you’re concerned about the appearance of your nails or notice other symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor or dermatologist to have them evaluated. Whether you’ve accidentally bumped your nail bed, never go a day without a manicure, or overworked your cuticles, “air will become trapped between the layers of the nail, creating a bubble, which will grow over time,” says Jenny Draper. OPI Ambassador.
White spots on the nails are known as leukonychia.
Do white spots on nails appear in people of all colors?
Yes. Leukonychia can appear on the nails of people of all skin colors, from fair to dark. It has nothing to do with a person’s skin type and hence can affect people of different races and ethnicities. If anything, it may manifest itself in slightly different ways. Generally, if the color of the nail bed is lighter, it will appear less distinct.
See more
How are white spots on nails diagnosed?
If for some reason you are not completely sure, health professionals are able to quickly identify and diagnose white spots on the nails as leukonychia. During the visit, the doctor should inspect your nails and ask about any recent injuries, chemical exposures, or underlying health conditions that may have contributed to the appearance of these white spots.
In some cases, your doctor may order additional tests or blood tests to rule out nutritional deficiencies or other medical conditions that can cause leukonychia. If you notice frequent white spots, it could be an underlying health problem that is manifested through the nail bed.
Can white spots be filed or polished?
If the cause is trauma that started deep in the nail, you’ll have to remove a lot of layers to get to the white, which will weaken the nail further, so it won’t really help.
How to prevent white spots on nails?
You also have to be especially careful with your cuticles, according to Mawla expert Lynn Gray: “You have to be very careful with the cuticle area, because if you go too far, you can create tension on the nails, which will appear as leucorrhoea, stretch marks or form of weakness”. Use a cuticle remover once a week, applying it around the area and waiting a few minutes until the product dissolves the cuticle; You can then gently push back the cuticle with a cotton-wrapped orange stick.” To better reveal the outline of the nail and keep the cuticle soft, use a cuticle cream or oil every day, preferably at night before going to bed. “
The best cuticle products you can try now:
Is there any product that removes white spots?
If your white spots are due to trauma to the nail, you will need to wait until it grows back. However, “if it’s from applying gel or polish, try buffing gently and applying a cuticle oil, like OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil, €17, Look Fantastic, for protection and prevention,” says Jenny.
In fact, Cuticle oil is the best way to prevent the appearance of white spots on nails, as it hydrates and strengthens them, Jenny adds: “A good moisturizing primer helps too and should be applied before polishing your nails.”
The Best Foundations You Can Try Now:
Does Diet Affect the Growth of Strong Nails?
When it comes to diet, white spots can be caused by certain deficiencies, although this is relatively rare. If you suspect this may be the cause, it is best to visit your doctor to have it looked at.
During this, There are some foods that help in making nails strong., Harley Street nutritionist Yvonne Bishop recommends Weston Protein Fish, nuts, seeds and legumesthat will help increase keratinThe main protein in nails.
Best oils for cuticles:
to know more about she mamonaGlamor UK Beauty Writer, follow her on Instagram @shemona
This article was originally published on glamor uk
Translation and adaptation: Blanca de Almandoz
Are you interested in:
You’re Taking A Bad Bath And You Don’t Know It: These Are The Mistakes We Make While Bathing
BIAB Manicures Are the New Gel Nails (They’re More Durable and Less Aggressive, Too)
A Dermatologist’s Tip With Which I’ve Managed to Eliminate Milium Around the Eyes