The White Marks On Your Nails Are Not What You Think They Are
Most of what you've been told about the white marks is simply not true.
By Sadho Ram
Chances are you did and were told that they are a sign of a calcium or zinc deficiency. If not, at least some sort of nutritional deficiency.
Medically, the white spots on nails are called leukonychia, which may sound scary to hear, but it's simply a term to describe the white discoloration appearing on nails.
Those white spots are not caused by a calcium deficiency
White spots can appear on both fingernails and toenails.
According to Dr. Jessica Krant, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, "Calcium deficiency causing white spots on nails is the most common myth, followed by zinc deficiency. The truth is that white spots are common and harmless and don't indicate any specific vitamin deficiency at all."
So what's the reason behind the white spots on nails?
These spots are a result of mild to moderate trauma to your nails. For example, nail biting. Our nails are sensitive, and even a slight bump can be "traumatic" for them.
Basically, these white spots are nothing to worry about. Also consider the fact that nails grow super slow, and by the time you notice any white spot on your nails, keep in mind that the injury to it is weeks old and the spots didn't appear instantly.
And it takes time for the white spots to go, so don't panic
"Whatever the cause, white spots on fingernails are temporary and will grow out as your nails grow. However, it can take more than eight months for nails to grow out completely so the spots may be around for a while," warns Dr. Andrew Weil.
