White spots on nails are a small but noticeable detail that can ruin even the most sophisticated manicure. They appear suddenly, do not hurt, and do not cause discomfort. However, these small stripes make you wonder whether it is just a cosmetic defect or a signal from the body about internal problems.
In this article, we will explain what white spots on nails mean, why they appear, and how to get rid of them.
What do white spots on nails mean?
A condition in which white spots or stripes appear on the fingernails or toenails is called leukonychia in medicine.
What is leukonychia?
Leukonychia is a pathological change in one or more nail plates, manifested as white spots or stripes. Its appearance is associated with a disruption in the keratinization process (the natural maturation of the cells that form the nail).
Various external or internal factors can cause malfunctions in the nail matrix (the area responsible for nail growth and structure). As a result, the cells of the nail plate do not complete their full development cycle, lose density, and microcavities form between them. These cavities are filled with air, water, or fat inclusions, which creates a white color effect. In other words, the white color of the spots is not caused by pigment, but by the optical reflection of light from these layers.
Depending on the symptoms, there are several forms of leukonychia:
- Punctate — the appearance of small, separate white spots.
- Striped — the formation of horizontal or vertical stripes of varying lengths.
- Total — uniform whitening of the entire nail plate.
White spots under the nails and on the surface: what is the difference?
White spots can appear on the surface of the nail. In this case, they usually appear due to damage to the outer layer of keratin. This can be the result of an impact, overly aggressive polishing of the nail plate, improper removal of gel polish, or contact with acetone or household chemicals. Such spots have a rough texture and gradually disappear as the nail grows back.
White spots may also appear under the nail, in the area where it grows, or under the nail plate itself. In this case, the cause may be more serious, such as circulatory disorders, fungal infections, micronutrient deficiencies, or even intoxication of the body.
When white spots are normal, and when they are a signal from the body
In most cases, isolated small white spots are a normal reaction of the nail plate to microtrauma. They pose no threat and do not require treatment, as they gradually disappear during the natural growth of the nail.
However, sometimes the appearance of such spots can be a sign of internal disorders in the body. In this case, they do not disappear on their own, but, on the contrary, increase in number and are accompanied by changes in the shape, color, or thickness of the nails. Such changes indicate possible problems with metabolism, micronutrient deficiencies, diseases of the internal organs, or hormonal imbalances.
In such situations, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist to determine the true cause and undergo the necessary examination. Leukonychia is not just a cosmetic flaw. It can be a manifestation of systemic processes in the body that require treatment.
The main causes of white spots
Why do white spots appear on nails? Their appearance may be caused by external (exogenous) or internal (endogenous) factors.
Exogenous factors include all factors that directly damage the nail plate or disrupt its nutrition due to external influences. Most often these are:
- a poorly done pedicure;
- mechanical injuries;
- exposure to aggressive substances (household chemicals, paints, fertilizers, detergents, etc.);
- excessive strain on the fingers;
- tight shoes or incorrectly chosen shoe shape (for toenails).
Endogenous leukonychia is associated with internal changes in the body, in particular:
- impaired metabolic processes (e.g., absorption of calcium, zinc, or proteins);
- diseases of internal organs (liver, stomach, intestines, etc.);
- infectious diseases that alter metabolism or affect blood circulation;
- fungal infections of the nail plate or the body as a whole;
- disruption of the nervous system;
- frequent stress, depression, and neurosis;
- onychotillomania (a condition in which a person deliberately injures their nails);
- heavy metal poisoning (lead, arsenic, thallium).
In addition, one of the endogenous causes of leukonychia is a deficiency of vitamins, micro- and macroelements. What vitamins are lacking if white spots appear on the nails? Most often, this indicates a deficiency of zinc, calcium, iron, as well as vitamins A, C, E, and B (in particular, niacin).
How to get rid of white spots on your nails
First, it is important to understand that successfully removing white spots depends on the cause of their appearance. If they are caused by internal disorders, no cosmetic treatment will give lasting results until the root cause is eliminated.
If you notice that white spots appear regularly, do not disappear within a few weeks, change shape, or are accompanied by brittleness, dullness, or deformation of the nails, you should consult a doctor. It is best to start with a therapist or dermatologist who will prescribe the necessary tests. Only by finding out the cause can leukonychia be effectively treated. Most often, it is enough to adjust your diet, restore the balance of trace elements, or normalize the functioning of internal organs.
How to get rid of white spots on your nails if they appeared due to mechanical damage? In such cases, they will disappear on their own when the nail plate grows back completely. The process can take from several weeks to two months, depending on the speed of nail growth. However, it is possible to prevent leukonychia from reappearing. How can this be done? Read on to find out.
What you can do at home
To prevent white spots on your nails, follow a few simple but effective rules:
- Avoid mechanical injuries. Do not press on your nails, do not use them as tools, and be careful when doing your manicure.
- Use high-quality materials. Choose certified bases, gel polishes, and removers.
- Moisturize your nails and cuticles. Regularly use oils or nourishing creams containing vitamins A, E, and F.
- Protect your hands from harsh chemicals. Wear gloves when cleaning, washing, or working with chemicals.
- Maintain a balanced diet. Include foods rich in protein, calcium, zinc, and B vitamins in your diet.
- Let your nails rest. Periodically, after removing the coating, take a break for a few weeks so that your nails can recover.
Such preventive measures not only help to avoid the appearance of white spots, but also strengthen the nails, making them beautiful and healthy.
Professional care at Seizó salon
To prevent white spots from reappearing on your nails, it is important to entrust your hands to professionals. At Seizó salon, we adhere to the main principle—beauty should not harm your health. That is why all our masters work carefully and delicately so as not to damage the nail plate and cuticle during a manicure. In addition, we use premium materials that do not dry out or damage the nails. All products are certified and completely safe.
In addition, at Seizó you can sign up for care procedures aimed at strengthening and restoring your nails:
- Japanese manicure deeply nourishes and restores the structure of the nail, restoring its shine and strength.
- Hand massage — improves blood circulation, nourishes tissues, strengthens nails, and promotes relaxation after daily stress.
Professional nail care at Seizó is not just about aesthetics. It is about health, comfort, and confidence that your hands will always look flawless.