Noah Sinclair
White spots on toenails, or leukonychia, are a very common nail change. They can be caused by a number of things, from fungal infections and psoriasis to nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Fungus, psoriasis, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies, keratin granulations |
| Type of white marks | White spots or streaks |
| Medical term | Leukonychia |
| Possible deficiency | Iron, zinc |
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Fungal infections
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including fungal infections. 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.
Risk factors for developing a fungal nail infection include having athlete's foot, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and having a weakened immune system. People with diabetes or circulation problems are also at increased risk.
Symptoms of a fungal nail infection include thickening and discolouration of the nail, which may appear white, yellow, or brown. The nail may also become brittle and crumble, and there may be a foul odour. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other nails or the skin, and can cause pain and discomfort.
Treatment for fungal nail infections typically involves the use of topical or oral antifungal medications. In some cases, surgical removal of the nail may be necessary. Preventative measures include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing shoes in public places, and avoiding sharing nail clippers or other nail care tools.
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Psoriasis
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies, and prolonged use of nail polish and acetone-based nail polish removers.
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. In addition to nail changes, psoriasis can cause red, raised patches on the skin that may be covered with silvery scales. These patches can be itchy and painful, and they may crack and bleed. Psoriasis can also affect the joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. Topical treatments, such as creams and ointments, can be applied directly to the affected areas to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells. Phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light, can also be effective in treating psoriasis. In more severe cases, systemic medications or biologic drugs may be prescribed to help control the immune response that triggers the condition.
If you suspect that you have psoriasis, it is important to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend a combination of treatments to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. While psoriasis cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with the right approach.
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Nail dehydration
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including nail dehydration. This is caused by keratin granulations, which are dehydrated superficial layers of nail cells that result in white, rough, and uneven dry patches on the top of the nail.
To prevent nail dehydration, it is important to limit the use of nail polish and acetone-based nail polish removers. If you do use these products, make sure to properly moisturise your nails and cuticles to prevent dryness and dehydration.
Additionally, if you notice white spots on your toenails, it is important to see a medical professional to rule out any other potential causes, such as mineral deficiencies or fungal infections. While mild toenail fungus may resolve on its own, it is always best to seek professional advice to ensure proper treatment and prevent further complications.
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Mineral deficiencies
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including mineral deficiencies. Both iron deficiency anaemia and zinc deficiency can cause white nails that are thin and brittle. However, you will typically notice other symptoms of an iron or zinc deficiency before you see a white nail. If you suspect you have a mineral deficiency, it is important to see a medical professional. 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.
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Leukonychia
White marks on your toenails could be a sign of a fungal infection, psoriasis, nail dehydration or a mineral deficiency. The medical term for white spots or streaks on your toenails or fingernails is leukonychia. There are three types of leukonychia: true leukonychia, apparent leukonychia and punctate leukonychia. In true leukonychia, the white spots form in the area of your fingers or toes where the nail starts to grow (nail matrix) and appear in the hard part of your nail (nail plate). Apparent leukonychia is when the white spots form in the skin on which your nails rest (nail bed). Punctate leukonychia is when the white spots are small and scattered across the nail plate.
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Frequently asked questions
White marks on your toenails could be a sign of a fungal infection, psoriasis, nail dehydration, or a mineral deficiency.
A toenail fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis, typically presents as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip or side of your toenail.
Prolonged use of nail polish and acetone-based nail polish removers can dry out the surface of your toenails, creating the perfect environment for fungus to take root in the nail plate.
Both iron deficiency anaemia and zinc deficiency can cause white nails that are thin and brittle. However, you will typically notice other symptoms of a mineral deficiency before you see a white nail.
The medical term for white spots on nails is leukonychia. There are three types: true leukonychia, apparent leukonychia, and nail bed leukonychia.
