I recommend getting a second opinion, since this diagnosis does not make sense. Obviously living skin can develop allergic reactions, but the nail plate is non-living and therefore does not become “allergic.” If this spot disappears when a nail oil is applied, it may well be caused by a lack of moisture in that part of the nail plate. Applying a nail oil causes moisture to build up underneath and rehydrate the area which alleviates the dry appearance. Frequently removal of nail polish can cause this type of dryness and it would not be unusual for these dry spots to be more apparent during the wintertime when the air is dryer. — Doug Schoon is chief scientific advisor for CND.
Technique
What are the dry white spots on my client’s toenails?
July 1, 2009
More FAQ
What causes my acrylic brushes to leave a yellow residue on the paper towel?
I have what’s starting to become a serious problem with my acrylic brushes. I have purchased three different brushes at three different price ranges, all of which have started to leave a yellow residue behind on the paper towel. What could be causing this? Please help!... read more
Would aggressive nail buffing cause lifting?
Would aggressive nail buffing cause lifting?... read more
What is the health issue with nurses wearing enhancements?
I have several clients who are nurses, and the hospitals they work at have put policies in place stating they can no longer have artificial nails because of the bacteria that can be held under the nails. Is there a real possibility that this is a health issue? And wouldn’t the same bacteria be under natural nails?... read more
What is the proper way to treat an ingrown toenail during a pedicure?
What is the proper way to treat an ingrown toenail during a pedicure?... read more
How do I properly apply gel sealer?
How do I properly apply gel sealer (in detail, please)?... read more
Does temperature have an effect on the way acrylic sets up?
My salon is kept very cold both in the summer and winter. My acrylic doesn’t seem to set up good when it’s very cold. Does temperature have an effect on the way acrylic sets up? And, how do I avoid this problem?... read more
Why does the acrylic get hot sometimes, causing my client’s finger to burn?
When I am applying an acrylic full set on a client, why does the acrylic get hot sometimes, causing my client’s finger to burn? Once I spray it with water or alcohol it cools off instantly.... read more
I like to use opaque pink acrylic to elongate the nail bed, but when it comes time for a fill, I have trouble blending the acrylic. Any suggestions?
I like to use opaque pink acrylic to elongate the nail bed, but when it comes time for a fill, I have trouble blending the acrylic. Any suggestions?... read more
Could you tell me how to prevent gels from lifting from the nail tips?
I am doing gel nails and they keep lifting from the nail tips. Could you please tell me why I keep getting this problem and how to prevent it from happening again?... read more
Why does it take me an hour and a half to do a gel fill? How can I get my time down?
Why does it take me an hour and a half to do a gel fill? How can I get my time down?... read more
When doing backfills on my gels, why am I having a problem with the white separating and coming off?
When doing backfills on my gels, I am having a problem with the white separating and coming off. Sometimes it comes off in one piece, or the natural nail will peel away from the gel. I am being very thorough with my prep work. What causes this?... read more
How can I avoid fill lines without filing too much on the natural nail?
I always have fill lines when I do fills. How can I avoid this without filing too much on the natural nail?... read more