What should I do if I have a white spot on my nail? How do I get rid of it?

Just as you have removed your nail polish, or it is simply time to take care of your hands, you discover with fear that a white spot has appeared on one or more of your nails? Don't panic, we'll explain everything!

What to do when you have a white spot on your nail?

Why do I have a white spot?

This sudden discolouration, also called "leukonchyia punctata" in a medical term, has often been wrongly linked to our diet. Indeed, its milky colour was associated with a lack of calcium or magnesium in our body, as a warning signal. But in reality, there is no connection! 

These mysterious spots of varying size appear after a lesion at the base of the nail. 

The nail plate (discussed in detail in the article How to grow your nails) can be weakened after a lack of nail care such as pushing back your cuticles or banging your hands into various objects. Being hit on the nail forms gaps, allowing air to enter between the different layers of keratin. And this is where the stain comes in!

How do I get rid of it? 

Unfortunately, the only way to get rid of them is to be patient, as there is no treatment. Natural growth will bring the spot closer to the edge of the nail until it disappears. As it is not dangerous, you do not have to worry about it. But if the aesthetic aspect bothers you, you can always hide it with a beautiful varnish that is sufficiently opaque to no longer see anything.  

How can it be avoided? 

To prevent them from appearing, there is nothing simpler: take care of your hands! Keep them away from harmful products that could dry them out and make them fragile, protect them from extreme temperatures, moisturise them with creams and oils and above all: avoid shocks and blows as much as possible. 

What if I still have spots?

Are you unsure about one or more of your tasks? No matter how well you protect them, nothing happens? Press lightly on the base of your nail and watch how it reacts. 

Does the white spot stay in place? It is placed on the nail, so it is definitely from a shock. 

Does the spot disappear or change colour? Then the problem may be in the skin. 

There is no need to panic, because if you don't have any major problems, this spot usually means nothing. If it is accompanied by other symptoms, then we suggest that you seek medical advice.

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