Nail Problems: What White Spots, Ridges and Colour Changes Mean
Most nail changes, like white spots and lengthwise ridges, are harmless. A new or changing dark streak, lifting, pitting or swelling needs a dermatologist.
Condition guide
Nail changes
Also known as Nail problems, White spots on nails, Nail ridges, Brittle nails, Melanonychia, Nail discolouration.
In short
Most nail changes are harmless. Small white spots usually come from minor knocks, nail biting or manicures, lengthwise ridges are common and increase with age, and brittle, peeling nails are often caused by frequent contact with water and detergents. A new or changing dark streak, a nail that is lifting or pitted, nails that become spoon shaped or curved, and red, swollen or painful skin around a nail should be checked, because these can point to infection, skin disease, a problem elsewhere in the body or, rarely, cancer.
Typical signs
- Small white spots or flecks that grow out with the nail
- Lengthwise ridges, or deep grooves across the nail a few weeks after a fever or illness
- Brittle, splitting or peeling nails
- Yellow, thick or crumbling nails, or other colour changes
- A brown or black band running the length of a nail
- Pitting, a lifting nail, spoon shaped nails, or redness and swelling around a nail
When to see a dermatologist
- You have a new or changing dark streak on a nail, especially on a thumb or big toe
- A nail is lifting, pitted, thickened or crumbling
- Your nails have become spoon shaped or curved
- Several nails have changed at once without an obvious cause
- The skin around a nail is sore, red, swollen and warm
- You have nail changes along with skin rashes, hair loss or joint pain
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on nail changes written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
Worried about nail changes?
Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.
This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.