It’s quite common to notice small white spots appearing on your fingernails. These spots are usually harmless and are a frequent occurrence, but understanding why they appear can be helpful. Pinpointing the exact cause might require a bit of investigation. In most instances, minor physical trauma is the most likely culprit behind these white spots on your nails. This trauma can range from something as subtle as a slightly rough manicure involving nail filing or cuticle manipulation, to repeated minor injuries like frequently tapping your fingers or hands on hard surfaces.
Close-up of woman's fingernails exhibiting white spots, a common nail condition often caused by minor trauma or other underlying factors. Learn about the causes of white spots on fingernails.
Another potential reason for these white marks is prolonged use of nail polish. When nail polish is left on for extended periods, especially for weeks at a time, it can prevent the nail from shedding its cells naturally. This can result in dry, white patches forming on the nail surface. Fungal infections can also be responsible. These infections can manifest as a white film that covers parts or even the entire fingernail.
While less common, white spots, or more accurately, a whitening of a larger portion of the nail, can sometimes indicate more significant health conditions. These can include deficiencies such as low iron levels, kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis, which is characterized by scarring of the liver. In these instances, often half or more of the nail may appear white.
If you can rule out common causes like hand injuries or extended nail polish wear, and you’re concerned about the appearance of white spots on your fingernails, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for an evaluation. It’s worth noting that these spots will typically disappear on their own as the nail grows out. Fingernails grow slowly, and it can take six months or even longer for them to fully regenerate.
