Common Nail Conditions
Healthy nails come in many different shapes and sizes, but sometimes changes in the nails can indicate injury, infection, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions.
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At Me2You Nails, we always assess the natural nail before every service. While we can identify many common nail conditions, we cannot diagnose medical conditions. If we notice anything unusual, we may recommend that you consult your doctor or dermatologist before proceeding with nail services.
When We May Decline a Nail Service
For your safety, we may recommend postponing your appointment if we observe:
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Suspected fungal infections
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Bacterial infections
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Open wounds
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Severe inflammation
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Undiagnosed nail abnormalities
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Painful nail conditions
Our priority is always your health and wellbeing.
Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection)
What is it?
A fungal infection that affects the nail plate and nail bed.
Signs
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Yellow or white discoloration
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Thickened nail
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Brittle or crumbly edges
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Nail lifting from the nail bed
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Sometimes an unpleasant smell
Can nail services be performed?
Usually NO
If a fungal infection is suspected, nail services should be postponed until medical treatment has been completed.
Nail Psoriasis
What is it?
Psoriasis can affect the nails even if skin symptoms are mild.
Signs
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Tiny pits in the nail
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Thickened nails
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Yellow or brown patches
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Nail lifting
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Crumbling nails
Can nail services be performed?
Sometimes
Services may be possible if there is no infection or pain, but extra care is required.
Onycholysis (nail lifting)
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What is it?
The nail separates from the nail bed.
Causes
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Trauma
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Allergic reactions
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Psoriasis
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Thyroid disorders
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Overexposure to water
Signs
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White area beneath nail
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Nail lifts from fingertip
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May collect dirt underneath
Can nail services be performed?
Usually not over the lifted area
The cause should first be determined.
Beau's Lines
What is it?
Horizontal grooves that form after illness or stress temporarily interrupts nail growth.
Causes
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High fever
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Surgery
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Severe illness
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Stress
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Injury
Can nail services be performed?
YES
As long as the nail in healthy and intact.
Onychoschizia (brittle nails)
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Signs
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Peeling layers
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Splitting tips
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Easily broken nails
Common causes
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Frequent hand washing
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Chemicals
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Dry weather
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Age
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Nutritional deficiencies
Can nail services be performed?
YES
Proper strengthening products and regular cuticle oil can help.
Nail Pitting
What is it?
Small dents in the nail plate.
Common causes
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Psoriasis
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Alopecia areata
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Eczema
Can nail services be performed?
Usually YES
Provided there is no active infection.
Green Nail Syndrome
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What is it?
A bacterial infection caused by Pseudomonas bacteria.
Signs
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Green discoloration
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Nail lifting
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Moist environment
Can nail services be performed?
NO
The infection should be treated before any enhancements are applied.
Paronychia
What is it?
An infection of the skin surrounding the nail.
Signs
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Redness
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Swelling
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Pain
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Pus
Can nail services be performed?
NO
Medical treatment is recommended first.
Leukonychia (white spots)
What is it?
Small white spots within the nail.
Causes
Usually minor trauma to the nail matrix.
Contrary to popular belief, they are rarely caused by calcium deficiency.
Can nail services be performed?
YES
No treatment is usually necessary.
Vertical Ridges
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What is it?
Raised lines running from cuticle to free edge.
Causes
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Ageing
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Dry nails
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Genetics
Can nail services be performed?
YES
Usually considered a normal part of ageing.
Spoon Nails (Koilonychia)
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What is it?
Nails curve upward like a spoon.
Possible causes
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Iron deficiency
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Genetics
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Certain medical conditions
Can nail services be performed?
Possible
Medical advice may be recommended first.
Clubbing
What is it?
The fingertips become enlarged and nails curve downward.
May indicate
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Lung disease
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Heart disease
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Gastrointestinal disorders
Can nail services be performed?
Yes, but medical assessment is advised if not previously diagnosed.
Melanonychia
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What is it?
A dark brown or black line running along the nail.
Causes
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Natural pigmentation
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Trauma
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Medication
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Rarely, melanoma
iMPORTANT
A new, widening, irregular, or changing dark streak should always be assessed by a dermatologist.
Can nail services be performed?
It depends
Referral may be appropriate before applying enhancements.
Nail Trauma
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Signs
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Bruising
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Broken nail
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Cracks
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Splitting
Causes
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Injury
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Nail biting
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Picking products off
Can nail services be performed?
It depends on the severity of the injury.
Hangnail
What is it?
Small pieces of torn skin around the nail.
Causes
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Dry skin
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Picking
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Cold weather
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Frequent washing
Can nail services be performed?
YES
Regular cuticle oil helps prevent hangnails.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Nail technicians are trained to recognise common nail abnormalities but are not medical professionals. If you have concerns about the health of your nails or notice any unusual changes, please consult your GP or a qualified dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.