Buzz
From a medical standpoint, those small white marks that occasionally manifest as dots or lines on fingernails and toenails are medically termed leukonychia. Typically benign in nature, they often result from injuries, allergies, or deficiencies in vitamins. In most cases, you can address white spots using various natural remedies at home. However, if the spots persist, it's advisable to consult a doctor for assessment, as they could indicate underlying medical conditions in rare instances.
Procedures
Utilizing Natural Treatments
Maintain daily nail moisturization: Ensure your nails receive adequate moisturization by applying a nourishing hand oil or vitamin E oil nightly before bed. This routine can contribute to nail strength, overall nail health, and potentially diminish the appearance of white spots.
Experiment with essential oils: Essential oils, such as tea tree oil and orange oil, are renowned for their ability to address white spots resulting from nail injury or fungal infection. Create a blend by mixing a few drops of essential oils with a carrier oil like olive oil, then massage the mixture onto your fingernails. For optimal results, let orange oil soak for approximately 45 minutes and tea tree oil for 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to rinse your nails thoroughly after applying the oils.
Utilize white vinegar and water soak: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl, then immerse your fingernails in the solution for 10 minutes. Rinse and dry your nails afterward. Repeat this process up to four times per week to potentially diminish the appearance of white spots. For individuals with sensitive skin, adjust the vinegar-to-water ratio accordingly.
Massage lemon slices onto your nails: Rich in vitamin C, lemons can help address white spots caused by vitamin deficiencies. Simply cut a lemon in half and rub the slices onto your fingernails, allowing the juice to remain for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing and drying your nails.
Experiment with alka seltzer tablets: Some individuals have found success in reducing white spots using alka seltzer tablets. Dissolve a couple of tablets in warm water and soak your fingernails for five minutes in the solution.
Allow nails to grow naturally: Patience is often key in eliminating white spots on nails. In many cases, these spots will naturally fade or grow out over time. While there are ways to accelerate this process, sometimes waiting is the best option.
Implementing Lifestyle Changes
Revise your dietary habits: Deficiencies in zinc, vitamin C, calcium, and protein can contribute to the development of white spots on nails. Increasing your intake of these essential nutrients can aid in reducing the occurrence of these spots.
Avoid nail biting and picking: Negative habits like nail biting and picking can harm your nails. Cease these behaviors to minimize damage and potentially decrease the appearance of white spots.
Optimize your footwear: If you experience white spots on toenails, reassess your choice of footwear. Ill-fitting shoes can cause damage to toenails, leading to the formation of white spots. Opt for more comfortable and properly fitting shoes, especially during activities like running or jogging.
Protect your nails with gloves during cleaning: Avoid exposing your nails to harsh chemicals during household chores by wearing rubber gloves. This simple practice helps prevent damage and dryness, promoting overall nail health.
Moderate your nail painting frequency: Limit consecutive days of nail painting to prevent nail dryness and damage. Pay attention to any adverse reactions to nail polish, as certain products may trigger white spots due to allergies. Reserve professional manicures for special occasions to minimize the risk of developing white spots.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Consult a doctor for persistent white spots: If home treatments fail to resolve white spots on your nails, schedule a consultation with your doctor. While typically harmless, persistent white spots could indicate underlying health issues such as anemia or liver problems. Additionally, fungal infections may require prescription medication for treatment.
Follow prescribed oral anti-fungal treatment: If diagnosed with a fungal infection causing white spots, adhere to your doctor's prescription for oral anti-fungal medication. These medications, typically taken for 6 to 12 weeks, are effective in eliminating symptoms associated with nail fungus-induced white spots. Prior to treatment, discuss any pre-existing health conditions with your doctor to mitigate potential side effects such as rashes or liver damage.
Consider using medicated nail polish or cream: Your doctor might recommend an anti-fungal cream or polish for your nails. Application periods can vary from a few weeks to up to a year.
Handy Tips
- You can opt for a neutral-colored polish to conceal white spots, if desired.
The suggestions provided here are drawn from the experiences of Mytour readers like yourself. If you have a valuable tip to share with Mytour, feel free to submit it below.
- Treat your nails to a pampering session: soak them in warm water, apply cuticle oil, and indulge in your favorite nail polish color.
- Avoid harsh liquid soaps; when washing dishes, wear protective gloves to safeguard your hands.
