Ava Monroe
White toenails, also known as leukonychia, are a common occurrence. They are usually caused by toenail fungus, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies, or psoriasis. White spots on the toenails are also common for people who overuse toenail polish. While these spots are not serious, they are a sign that you should take a break from polish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Leukonychia |
| Description | Partial or full discolouration of the nail plate on one or more toenails |
| Cause | Toe trauma, fungal infection, psoriasis, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies, overuse of toenail polish |
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What You'll Learn
White toenails are often caused by toenail fungus
White toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including 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).
Fungal nail infections typically occur following an initial trauma to the nail bed (giving the fungus an easier entry) and will start off looking like white scattered speckles on the nail. This can then progress to whitish-yellow brittle toenails that can be painful and unsightly. When you have nail fungus, the surface of the nail may turn white and feel soft, dry, or powdery. Your nail might thin out, so much so that you can scrape off bits of it. Trauma to the nail, such as from repeated pedicures, an injury, or regularly exercising, also causes white toenails.
White toenails can also be caused by mineral deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anaemia and zinc deficiency, which 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.
White toenails can also be caused by overuse of toenail polish and acetone-based nail polish removers, which dry out the surface of your toenails and can lead to keratin granulations. These are dehydrated superficial layers of nail cells that result in white, rough, and uneven dry patches on the top of the nail.
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White spots on toenails can be caused by overuse of toenail polish
White spots on toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration, and mineral deficiencies. Officially known as onychomycosis, nail fungus is a common cause of white spots on toenails. Toenail fungus typically appears as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip or side of the toenail and may resolve on its own if the infection is mild. However, if you suspect a fungal infection, it is best to consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Another possible cause of white spots on toenails is trauma to the toe. This can occur when shoes are too small and the toe repeatedly hits the front of the shoe. In this case, the white streak may be a sign of injury to the nail bed.
Additionally, white spots on toenails can be a sign of nail dehydration or mineral deficiencies. In these cases, rehydrating the nails and ensuring proper nutrient intake may help resolve the issue.
Overall, while white spots on toenails are usually not a cause for concern, it is important to be mindful of the potential causes and take appropriate action if necessary.
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White spots on toenails can be a sign of nail dehydration
White spots on toenails can also be caused by toe trauma. For example, this can happen when your sneakers are too small and your toe hits the front of the shoe. These spots won't disappear like bruises, but they will grow out over time.
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White streaks on toenails can be caused by toe trauma
White nails are the most common type of nail discolouration, known as leukonychia. This is when the nail loses its general pink undertone and appears white. The discolouration can be partial or full and can affect one or more toenails.
There are several other causes of white spots on toenails, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration, and mineral deficiencies. If you think you might have a toenail fungus, it's important to see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. However, if you're experiencing white spots on your nails due to overuse of toenail polish, this is not a serious issue and can be resolved by taking a break from polish.
If you're unsure about the cause of your white toenails, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional for advice. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
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White toenails can be a symptom of a mineral deficiency
White toenails can also be caused by nail fungus. This typically occurs following an initial trauma to the nail bed, which gives the fungus an easier entry. It will start off looking like white scattered speckles on the nail, which can then progress to whitish-yellow brittle toenails that can be painful and unsightly. When you have nail fungus, the surface of the nail may turn white and feel soft, dry, or powdery. Your nail might thin out, so much so that you can scrape off bits of it. Trauma to the nail, such as from repeated pedicures, an injury, or regularly exercising, also causes white toenails.
White toenails can also be caused by nail dehydration. Prolonged use of nail polish, as well as acetone-based nail polish removers, dries out the surface of your toenails and can lead to keratin granulations. These are dehydrated superficial layers of nail cells that result in white, rough, and uneven dry patches on the top of the nail.
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Frequently asked questions
White toenails are usually caused by a fungal infection, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies or psoriasis.
White spots on toenails are called leukonychia.
Leukonychia is the partial or full discolouration of the nail plate on one or more toenails. The nail will lose its general pink undertone and appear white.
Leukonychia is caused by a fungal infection, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies or psoriasis.
If you think you have a fungal infection, you should see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are not sure, you can try rehydrating your nails at home.
