What Causes White Spots on Nails or Leukonychia?

Leukonychia is a condition where white spots appear on your nails.

There are three types Leukonychia:

True leukonychia: White spots form where the nail starts to grow and appear in the hard part of your nail.

Apparent leukonychia: White spots form in the skin under your nails.

Pseudo leukonychia: White spots form on the surface of your nail because of outside factors like fungi.

The following are common causes of leukonychia:

Allergies Can Cause White Spots on Nails

When you have allergies, your body might react in different ways, including showing up as white spots on your nails. These spots can appear due to your body’s response to certain substances or allergens. It’s like a signal that something your body doesn’t agree with has entered your system. So, if you notice these white spots, it might be worth considering if you have recently been exposed to something that could trigger an allergic reaction.

Fungal Infections Are the Reasons of White Spot

Fungal infections can be a common cause of white spots on nails. When fungi, like molds or yeasts, attack the nails, they can lead to discoloration, including white spots. These infections increase in warm and moist environments, so keeping your nails clean and dry is essential in preventing them.

Poisoning and Medications Cause Leukonychia

Poisoning and certain medications can also lead to leukonychia, which is the medical term for white spots on nails. Exposure to toxins or certain drugs can disrupt the normal growth of nails, resulting in the formation of these white spots. It’s important to be cautious about what substances you come into contact with and to carefully follow any medication instructions provided by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of leukonychia.

Systemic Diseases Make Your Nails White

Systemic diseases, which affect the whole body, can sometimes visible as white spots on nails. Conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or certain autoimmune disorders can impact the health of your nails, leading to discoloration. When your body is dealing with such diseases, it can affect the way your nails grow and appear. So, if you notice white spots on your nails along with other symptoms of systemic illness, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

Injury to the Nail

When you injure your nail, it can result in white spots appearing on the affected nail. These spots usually form in the area where the nail starts to grow, called the nail matrix. The injury might be from accidentally hitting your nail against something or experiencing trauma to the nail bed. Even minor injuries can cause these white spots to appear. While these spots are often harmless and will grow out as the nail does, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on them and ensure proper nail care to prevent further damage.

Are Manicures Cause White Spots on Nails?

Manicures themselves typically don’t cause white spots on nails, but certain practices or products used during manicures could contribute to their development. For example, excessive filing or buffing of the nails can weaken them and make them more prone to damage, including the formation of white spots.

Is Mineral Deficiency Cause Leukonychia?

Yes, mineral deficiencies, such as low levels of zinc or calcium, can contribute to the development of leukonychia, which is the medical term for white spots on nails. When your body lacks essential minerals, it can affect the health and strength of your nails, making them more susceptible to damage and discoloration. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining healthy nails and preventing conditions like leukonychia.

Skin Conditions and White Spot on Nails

Certain skin conditions can be associated with white spots on nails. Conditions like eczema, which affect the skin’s health and appearance, can also impact the nails. When these skin conditions flare up, they may affect the nail matrix, where the nail starts to grow, leading to the formation of white spots on the nails. Managing these skin conditions with appropriate treatment and skincare can help reduce the likelihood of white spots developing on the nails.

Hereditary Causes White Spots on Nails

Hereditary factors can also play a role in causing white spots on nails. Sometimes, individuals inherit certain traits or predispositions from their parents that can affect the health and appearance of their nails. While not everyone with a family history of white spots on nails will necessarily develop them, genetics can still be a contributing factor.

Nail Polish Chemicals Can Harm Your Nails

The chemicals found in nail polish can possibly harm your nails if used excessively or if you have sensitivity to certain ingredients. Some nail polishes contain harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, which can weaken the nails and cause them to become brittle or discolored over time. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals, especially without proper nail care and hydration, can lead to issues such as white spots or other forms of nail damage. Opting for nail polishes that are labeled as “5-free” or “7-free,” meaning they are free of the most harmful chemicals, can help reduce the risk of nail damage.