Contents
The natural aging process also affects one’s nails, just as it does one’s hair and skin. Alpha-keratin, the protein that is responsible for the formation of nails, also serves as a polymer that coats the skin beneath the nail. This is an interesting fact. Because the condition of one’s nails, like that of one’s hair (both of which are made of the same protein), can be an indicator of one’s overall health, it is essential to practice proper nail hygiene and keep an eye out for early warning signs of nail disorders.
If you notice any white patches on your nails, it may be a sign that you need to refuel, rest, or take a break from your fancy gel manicures; therefore, you should pay attention to all of these things. But where do these symptoms come from, and at what point should you seek medical attention? In this post, we have solicited the assistance of an authority figure to clarify the facts, including the appropriate time for you to visit. Please visit Maby blog to update the latest nail news.
Causes of white spots on fingernails?
According to Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, a celebrity cosmetic dermatologist in New York City and author of The Pro-Aging Playbook, “white spots” (officially referred to as punctate leukonychia) are defined by keratin deposits of the nail plate. He notes that leukonychia can also appear as white lines transversely across the nail (transverse or striate leukonychia) or longitudinally along the nail (longitudinal leukonychia).
Where do white spots come from?
A lack of calcium is not likely to be the cause, despite common belief.
Broken nail beds
White spots on the nails, as explained by Dr. Frank, are a symptom of trauma or dryness to the nail bed. These white spots are common among people who bite their nails and those who receive gel manicures on a regular basis because of the damage they do to the nail beds. Zinc and calcium deficiencies are extremely uncommon causes.
Hereditary disorders
He continues by saying that while some white spots may be the result of an inherited autosomal gene (a disorder known as Total Congenital Hereditary Leukonychia), others may be signs of a fungal infection or an allergic reaction to the components in an acrylic or gel manicure. The latter will appear as a collection of white dots, while trauma should be a single, centralized area.
Cuticle Illness
Both bacteria and fungus can enter during the clipping or cutting of nails, especially if the instruments aren’t sterile, and Dr. Frank warns that “nail fungus can occur anytime you’re exposing your nails to a warm, moist environment.”
Disorders and Illnesses
They may also be an indicator of more serious illnesses including heart disease, kidney failure, or pneumonia, however this is quite improbable.12 See a doctor right away if you have any concerns about this. In addition, please refer to: How to Remove a Hangnail and How to Avoid Getting One in the Future.
The best ways to stop them
Dr. Frank recommends avoiding biting and other habits that might damage nails, keeping them moisturized (cuticle oil does wonders), and giving nails a rest in between manicures, especially those that include scraping, gels, and acrylics.
If you are susceptible, try going every other week instead of every week, and only visit nail salons that sanitize their tools. If you think the spots are caused by an allergy, you might also wish to avoid using nail paint or adhesive.
Methods for eliminating them
If the damage to your nails was the result of an accident, Dr. Frank recommends that you wait until they have fully grown out before attempting to repair them. He suggests staying away from whatever allergen is triggering the reaction in order to minimize the risk. Another sign of a fungal infection is the thickness of the nails; therefore, if you think you may have a fungal infection, it is best to consult a dermatologist in order to obtain some antifungal medication.
One further piece of advice for enhancing nail health is to consume meals that are high in various vitamins, minerals, and important fatty acids. This category includes a wide variety of foods, including salmon, eggs, vegetables, and leaner cuts of meat and meat products.
When to seek professional medical help
It is not required to seek medical aid for infrequent white spots on the nail that are brought on by trauma to the nail as these spots are not considered serious enough to warrant medical attention. Dr. Frank proposes seeking the assistance of a well-respected dermatologist in order to select a particular treatment plan and to find out whether the white spots are the consequence of a genetic or other condition if the origin is unclear and the spots are growing worse. In addition, determining whether or not the white spots may be avoided entirely will need finding out what causes them in the first place.