White spots on nails are usually caused by previous nail bed injuries, not vitamin or mineral deficiencies. They can also indicate an underlying infection or an allergic reaction to nail products. Fingernails grow at an average rate of half an inch per month, taking about eight weeks to fully grow out. If concerned, visit a dermatologist.
There are many myths surrounding those mysterious white spots on nails that occasionally show up, but the simple truth is that most white spots on nails are caused by a previous nail bed injury. They can be vaguely compared to bruises on the skin.
If you notice white spots, also known as leukonychia, on your nails, it’s unlikely they were caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency. In some cases, white spots on the nails can indicate an underlying infection, but far more commonly they are the result of an injury. Similar to bruises, white spots on nails don’t show up right away. It may take several days or weeks before you notice the spots. Since they’re generally the result of a minor injury, chances are you forgot to bang your nail against the car door.
White spots on nails are usually not the result of serious injury to the nail, such as being hit with a hammer, which would more likely result in dark blue to black spots and possible necrosis or death of the nail tissue. Fingernails grow at an average rate of half an inch per month, so the most visible nail lesions take about eight weeks to fully grow out. Sometimes, the white spots on nails fade away before they grow out completely.
Some of the common myths associated with white spots on nails claim that they are the result of a calcium deficiency or consuming too much mayonnaise. While these white patches may be the result of a zinc deficiency, other signs of zinc deficiency are also likely, such as hair loss or a sluggish immune system. Occasionally, a few white spots on the nails can indicate an allergic reaction to a product used on the nail, such as nail polish remover, hardener, or nail polish remover.
Many people who wear acrylic nails find white spots on their nails after they have their artificial nails removed. The spots could simply signal trauma to the nail bed while applying acrylic nails or an allergic reaction to one of the products used. However, acrylic nails are known to cause fungal infections, which appear yellowish. If you have questions about the health of your nails or notice large white areas on your nail bed, visit a dermatologist and stop using nail products until your visit.
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