How to Remove White Spots on Nails

White spots, also termed leukonychia, are a common nail abnormality. They appear as small dots or patches on the nails and can be caused by various factors, such as nail injuries, fungal infections, or vitamin deficiencies.

These are mostly harmless unless they are due to infections or deficiencies. When white spots persist and worsen over time, they indicate an underlying health problem. Hence, it is essential to understand the causes and find a suitable and effective treatment.

In this article, along with the causes and treatments, we will also explore preventive measures and maintenance for healthy nails.

Causes of White Spots on Nails

White spots on nails can appear due to a variety of reasons, ranging from minor injuries to underlying health conditions. Here are some common causes:

1. Nail Injury

Injury to the nail or nail bed is one of the most frequent causes of white spots. These spots may appear days or even weeks after the injury, making it difficult to trace the cause. Common nail injuries include:

• Slamming your finger in a door
• Striking your finger with a hammer
• Bumping your nails against hard surfaces like desks or countertops

These injuries can disrupt the nail’s growth and lead to the formation of white spots. While most of these spots will fade as the nail grows, it may take several weeks.

2. Allergic Reactions

An allergic reaction to certain nail products, such as low-quality nail polish, nail polish remover, or hardeners, can cause white spots on nails. If you suspect that a product is the cause, stop using it and monitor your nails for improvement.

3. Fungal Infections

Fungal infections, including white superficial onychomycosis, are another common cause of white spots on nails, particularly on the toenails. Initially, small white spots appear, which may eventually spread and cause the nails to become thick, brittle, and flaky. If you notice such changes, it’s important to seek medical treatment to prevent the infection from worsening.

4. Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals, such as zinc or calcium, can contribute to the formation of white spots on nails. Ensuring that your diet is rich in essential nutrients can help maintain healthy nails and prevent such spots from appearing.

5. Underlying Health Conditions

In some cases, white spots on nails can be a sign of an underlying health condition. Some of these include:

• Bad breath
• Heart disease
• Pneumonia
• Arsenic poisoning
• Eczema or psoriasis
• Kidney failure

If you notice persistent white spots on your nails without any obvious cause, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious health issues.

Diagnosis of White Spots on Nails

If you know the reason for white spots on your nails and it is harmless, you may not need to see your doctor. However, a doctor’s consultation becomes crucial if there is an infection, a serious injury, or the condition worsens over time.

Your doctor will inspect your nails and find the root cause before prescribing medication or treatment. Your doctor might also suggest a few tests for a better diagnosis.

White spots can appear in various forms, depending on their primary cause. Some important appearances are:

• Dots, the size of a tiny pen point
• Large lines across the nails
• Large individual dots

Depending on the cause of white spots on nails, you can also have various signs and symptoms, such as a large white dot in the middle of the nail due to nail injury or the formation of multiple dots all over the nails due to an allergic reaction. The appearance of dots or lines may be different on each nail.

Treatment for White Spots on Nails

Once the cause of the white spots is identified, various treatment solutions can be used:

1. Antifungal Medications

If a fungal infection is the cause, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications. Follow the prescribed treatment plan to eliminate the infection, which typically takes a few months.

2. Nail Growth and Healing

For spots caused by nail injuries, no specific treatment is necessary. As the nail grows out, the white spots will typically fade and disappear.

3. Cosmetic Cover-ups

While not a medical solution, cosmetic products such as nail polish can help mask the appearance of white spots. Choosing a polish that matches your skin tone or using colorful nail polish can provide a temporary cosmetic fix.

4. Avoiding Trigger Products

If an allergic reaction is the cause, avoid using nail products that may trigger the reaction. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Home Remedies for White Spots on Nails

Try some natural home remedies to remove white spots on your nails. Our favorites are listed below:

1. Tea Tree Oil

A natural antifungal and antibacterial (R), tea tree oil is an amazing remedy to remove white spots on nails quickly. It penetrates the nail surface, treats the fungus, and reduces discoloration.

• Mix a few drops of olive or thyme oil with a few drops of tea tree oil
• Apply this mixture to your nails
• Leave it for 15 minutes before washing them

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda has antifungal properties (R). It creates an alkaline environment to inhibit fungal growth. Its mild exfoliating property removes dead cells on the nails and improves its appearance. To use baking soda for white spot removal:

• Make a mixture of ½ cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of peroxide, ½ cup of Epsom salt, and 4 cups of water
• Dip your nails in a ¼ cup of vinegar
• Apply the prepared mixture to the nails
• Cover it with a bandage
• Repeat regularly

3. Garlic Oil

Garlic contains activin, which has antifungal properties (R). Use garlic oil to treat white spots on your nails.

• Mix garlic oil in vinegar
• Apply the mixture to your nails
• Cover it with a bandage
• You can use olive oil if garlic oil is not available

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV), with its antifungal and antibacterial properties (R), treats white spots on nails. The acetic acid helps eliminate fungal infections, and its acidic nature balances the pH of the nail.

• Mix apple cider vinegar and water in equal quantities
• Using a cotton ball, apply this mixture to the nails
• Or make an antifungal scrub by mixing rice flour and some apple cider vinegar
• Apply this mixture to nails and scrub the nails gently
• This treatment also helps in removing the dead skin cells

5. Lavender Oil

Lavender essential oil, with its antifungal and antibacterial properties (R), treats nail fungal infections. Its soothing properties heal the nail quickly.

• Apply lavender oil directly to the nails
• Cover it with a cloth

6. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice, with its citric acid, which is antifungal and antibacterial (R), treats an infection in nails. It also exfoliates dead cells and brightens nails.

• Apply lemon juice to the nails
• Leave it for 10 minutes
• Wash it off with lukewarm water

You can also use lemon juice with olive oil.

• Mix lemon juice and olive oil in equal quantities
• Apply it to your nails
• With the help of cotton, massage it well

7. Coconut Oil

The antifungal properties of coconut oil (R) make it an excellent home remedy for treating white spots. Coconut oil also retains moisture in the nails.

• Take some coconut oil and dip a cotton ball in it
• Apply the cotton ball to the nails
• Repeat the procedure three times every day

How to Prevent White Spots on Nails

To help prevent the development of white spots on your nails, follow these simple dos and don’ts:

1. Keep Your Nails Clean

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for nail health. Regularly clean your nails to remove dirt and bacteria that could potentially cause issues, including white spots.

2. Detoxify Your Body

Toxins in the body can contribute to nail problems. Drinking cranberry juice may help flush out toxins and promote healthier nails.

3. Strengthen Your Immune System

A strong immune system supports overall health, including the health of your nails. Include plenty of green vegetables and fruits in your diet to boost your immune system and nourish your nails.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your nails and skin hydrated, promoting stronger and healthier nails. Proper hydration also helps to prevent dryness, which can lead to nail issues.

5. Avoid Nail Products That Cause Allergies

If you notice that certain nail polishes or products lead to allergic reactions, such as white spots or irritation, avoid using them. Additionally, ensure that moisture doesn’t get trapped under your nails, as this can increase the risk of infection.

6. Reduce Sugar Intake

Excessive consumption of white sugar can contribute to fungal infections, which may lead to white spots on nails. Cutting back on sugar can lower the risk of fungal development and improve overall nail health.

7. Keep Your Nails Dry

Moisture can encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi under the nails, leading to white spots. Make sure to dry your nails thoroughly after washing your hands or coming into contact with water.

Conclusion

While often harmless, white spots on nails may indicate underlying health issues, especially when they persist or worsen over time. They may arise due to nail injuries, allergic reactions, fungal infections, or nutritional deficiencies.

Understanding the root cause is essential for effective treatment and prevention. Antifungal medications and natural remedies like tea tree oil, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar can help. To reduce the risk of white spot formation, maintain good nail hygiene, avoid potential allergens, and take a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

Consult a healthcare professional if the condition persists or worsens, as it may indicate a pre-existing health concern. With the right care and attention, your nails can remain healthy and strong.

• June 2017
  Written by Prajakt
• Dec 2024
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri