Those little white spots on your nails – technically called leukonychia – are incredibly common, and thankfully, usually harmless! Forget the old wives' tale about calcium deficiency; the most frequent culprit is actually minor nail trauma. Think bumping your fingers, hitting them while typing, or even manicures can cause these small air pockets to form under the nail plate.
However, persistent or widespread white spots *could* signal other issues, though these are less common. Rarely, they can be linked to fungal infections, allergies, or certain medications. Very occasionally, they might indicate a more serious underlying health condition, like zinc deficiency or internal disease.
What can you do? Usually, nothing! The spots will grow out with your nail. Avoid harsh chemicals and be gentle with your nails. If the spots are persistent, widespread, or accompanied by other symptoms like nail thickening or discoloration, consult a doctor or dermatologist to rule out other underlying causes. Keeping your nails moisturized and healthy can also help prevent future trauma.
