- We focus on what has worked for 10,000+ patients & medical research.
- The #1 goal is to keep costs LOW and treatment SIMPLE.
- Just remember this is for educational reference only.
- If you have a medical problem visit with your personal doctor.
- Please comment if any questions!
Toenail Pain [Toenail Fungus, Ingrown Toenails, Discolored Toenails]
White Patches On Toenails [Causes, Signs & Best Treatment]
White Patches On Toenails are usually due to #1) nail dehydration (especially from nail polish), but #2) Can be white superficial toenail fungus!
Look:
- We will show you an animated diagnosis & treatment guide, photos, and the best FAST treatment options for toenail fungus.
- These are Simple & EASY options that we have seen success with.
- Also included is our Toenail Fungus Treatment Video Guide!
So, Let’s Get STARTED!
Table of Contents
White Patches on Toenails Treatment Video:
This video goes over the causes and how to treat white patches on the toenails.
What causes white patches on the toenails?
White Toenail Picture Gallery:
Look:
- These photos are of dehydrated superficial nail keratin granulations vs. other toenail conditions.
- Keratin granulations are white chalky appearing dehydration.
- It is possible that some toenail fungus could be mixed in with the keratin granulations.
- It is also possible to have superficial white onychomycosis.
So click on the photos for gallery mode & description!
Click on pictures for full size & descriptions:
Click on pictures for full size & descriptions:
Causes White Toenail Patches:
- White patches on the toenails are most commonly caused by dehydration and drying.
- This is most commonly seen after the removal of toenail polish!
- It can be a type of nail fungus but don’t worry; it usually is not.
- These white patches can also be caused by simply stubbing your nail against something. This is called Leukonychia. Don’t worry; Leukonychia is harmless as well. These white marks will grow out normally.
- In cases after pedicures and manicures, and if you are sick- it is possible to catch white fungus. This is called white superficial onychomycosis.
- The least common and most severe cause of white stains on your toenails is due to systemic diseases.
Are White Toenail Patches Dangerous?
- In most cases, toenail patches are not dangerous. The only time you should really be worried is if you have it due to systemic causes. But in most cases, you probably knew that there was something wrong anyway, so the white marks themselves are no big deal.
- It is very easy to treat these white stains and rehydrate them in most cases. If it is a case of superficial toenail fungus, it is very easy to treat as well.
Home Treatment Guide for White Patches on Toenails:
1)Keratin Granulations from Nail Polish:
Skip Straight to the Keratin Granulation Treatment Guide
Nail polish can dehydrate the nail leading to what is called “keratin granulations.” This is an extremely tricky diagnosis as almost everyone will think that this is a common type of nail fungus called superficial white onychomycosis. It is more likely to occur the older you get, but have no fear. There is an easy treatment that works in most people!
Home Treatment Guide:
- Buy some cuticle oil or any other emollient and apply it daily to the nail until it starts to get better.
- You can use any moisturizing agent to perform this function. They do not add water to the skin or the nail but simply prevent water loss from the cells.
- Nail polish really dries out the nail, so oils help reverse those dehydrating effects.
- The nail should get better in a matter of days or weeks.
- If you let your nails grow out because the moisturizing agent is not working, the bad news is that toenails and fingernails only grow at a rate of 1 millimeter per month. This means 6-9 months for toenails and potentially even longer for fingernails.
- It is very difficult to make the nails grow any faster. There are many gimmicks out there that report stronger nails, but really all you can do is increase your metabolism and health by getting some more sun and exercising. Fun Fact: Nails grow up to 50% faster in the summer over the winter.
For more on Keratin Granulations:
Keratin Granulation Treatment Guide
2)White Patches due to Trauma:
White Patches can also occur due to damage to the keratin(the substance that makes up the nails), and it is usually irreversible, and you should just wait until it grows out. Think of this as a scar that happens to your nail plate.
Home Treatment Guide
- The bad news is that toenails and fingernails only grow at a rate of 1 millimeter per month.
- This means 6-9 months for toenails and potentially even longer for fingernails.
- It is very difficult to make the nails grow any faster.
- There are many gimmicks out there that report stronger nails, but really all you can do is increase your metabolism and health by getting some more sun and exercising.
- Fun Fact: Nails grow up to 50% faster in the summer over the winter.
3)White stains that are due to superficial white onychomycosis (nail fungus):
Nail fungus can look very similar to keratin granulations. It is very difficult to differentiate these from keratin granulations. One factor that may lead you more to this is if you can try and scrape off the fungus.
Home Treatment Guide:
- Go see your podiatrist make sure.
- If you treat your nails as keratin granulations and they don’t get better after 1-2 weeks, suspect this.
- If you are immune-suppressing medication, suspect this.
Toenail Fungus Is Associated With 80% Of All Toenail Problems:
- Toenail fungus is associated with 80% of all toenail problems.
- It usually manifests as thick yellow toenails, but there can be white marks & lines as well.
Click on this link to our comprehensive nail fungus home treatment guide. Always be sure to see a podiatrist if you are ever unsure!
4)White nails due to systemic problems:
If the nail does not seem like described in the above three situations, it may be due to a vitamin deficiency or systemic problem:
Consider these scenarios for White Patches On Toenails:
- Do you have any systemic medical conditions
- Are you are many medications?
- Has your diet decreased?
- Do you not get enough vitamins and nutrients?
If this applies to you, go see your podiatrist or foot doctor.
Good Luck with your White Patches On Toenails!
Other Related Nail Problems:
See if any of these other problems apply to your situation!
Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis) Treatment & Cure Infographic:
Toenail Fungus Home Treatment:
- These are our favorite products to treat toenail fungus at home.
- It is difficult to properly diagnose any health problem such as toenail fungus with 100% certainty. So see your podiatrist and make sure you are not missing anything!
- Also, many of these products are considered beauty products more so than health products. Just be aware that they are not always FDA evaluated or approved in any way.
How to fix toenail fungus:
- There are many different types of toenail damage.
- In our experience, about easily 50% or more is related to toenail fungus.
- The key to toenail fungus is to trim it as much as possible and file that nail down vertically and length-wise.
- If you can do that, you have to make sure you can kill fungus the rest of the way with creams and topical medication.
- The best way to do that is to soak exfoliate the affected toenail skin. So, foot soaks can be a strong anti-fungus solution.
- At the same time, you have to apply anti-fungal medication such as these medications evaluated here or the toenail repair pens.
![White Patches On Toenails 9 Ariella Nail Fungus Treatment - Toenail Fungus Treatment Extra Strength - Finger & Toe Nail Fungus Treatment - Toenail Fungus Treatment Extra Strength - Nail Repair Pen 4pcs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51hpyj10VcL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 10 NZ Country Manuka 100% Pure New Zealand Manuka Oil | Organic Essential Oil | 35x Stronger Than Organic Tea Tree Oil | Natural Skin Care | Diffuser | Aromatherapy | Nails | Hair | Skin | Lips](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51pa8CSLtHL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 11 Foot Finish Foot Repair Cream for Athletes Foot Treatment - 4oz Foot Cream for Dry Cracked Feet - Tea Tree Toenail Treatment - Powerful, Natural Anti Itch Cream with Tea Tree, Rose & Lavender Essential Oils](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51P7UGoT+-L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 12 Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak with Epsom Salt - Made in USA - for Toenail Athletes Foot, Stubborn Foot Odor Scent, Softens Calluses & Soothes Sore Tired Feet - 16 Ounces](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41GzkmTLQyL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 13 Naturenics Tea Tree Essential Oil | 100% USDA Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia Therapeutic Grade | Natures Solution for Acne, Lice, Toenail Fungus, Hair, Face,Skin Problems | Roll On & eBook - 1 Fl Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51yRfkwuSiL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 9 Ariella Nail Fungus Treatment - Toenail Fungus Treatment Extra Strength - Finger & Toe Nail Fungus Treatment - Toenail Fungus Treatment Extra Strength - Nail Repair Pen 4pcs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51hpyj10VcL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 10 NZ Country Manuka 100% Pure New Zealand Manuka Oil | Organic Essential Oil | 35x Stronger Than Organic Tea Tree Oil | Natural Skin Care | Diffuser | Aromatherapy | Nails | Hair | Skin | Lips](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51pa8CSLtHL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 11 Foot Finish Foot Repair Cream for Athletes Foot Treatment - 4oz Foot Cream for Dry Cracked Feet - Tea Tree Toenail Treatment - Powerful, Natural Anti Itch Cream with Tea Tree, Rose & Lavender Essential Oils](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51P7UGoT+-L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 12 Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak with Epsom Salt - Made in USA - for Toenail Athletes Foot, Stubborn Foot Odor Scent, Softens Calluses & Soothes Sore Tired Feet - 16 Ounces](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41GzkmTLQyL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 13 Naturenics Tea Tree Essential Oil | 100% USDA Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia Therapeutic Grade | Natures Solution for Acne, Lice, Toenail Fungus, Hair, Face,Skin Problems | Roll On & eBook - 1 Fl Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51yRfkwuSiL._SL160_.jpg)
Recommended foot fungus products:
- It is also vital to fix your foot fungus.
- Athlete’s feet can be beneficial to remove from the foot because if left unchecked, they can quickly spread back to the toenails even if they are fixed.
- Even if you cure your toenail fungus, keep your toenails trimmed in healthy: your foot fungus can spread back into toenails.
- So make sure you treat your foot fungus, as well as your toenail fungus.
![White Patches On Toenails 19 3 in 1 Professional Foot Spa Kit-with Tea Tree Foot & Body Soak-Tea Tree Body Wash & Nail Blend-Soothes Dry, Burning & Itchy Skin-Refreshes Unwanted Foot Odor-Restores Unhealthy Nails-Purely Northwest](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dcdMGZ5dL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 20 Lotrimin Athlete's Foot Deodorant Antifungal Powder Spray, Miconazole Nitrate 2%, Clinically Proven Effective Antifungal Treatment of Most AF, Jock Itch & Ringworm, 4.6 Ounce (Pack of 3)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516aClq0EgL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 21 Purely Northwest-Natural Tea Tree & Peppermint Scalp & Body Wash-Men & Women-Soothes & Refreshes: Odor, Acne, Jock Itch, Irritated Itchy Scalp-(Can be used with a Silicone Body Scrubber) 9oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Xqq+gRbKL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 22 PURELY NORTHWEST-Tea Tree Oil & Peppermint Foot Soak with Epsom Salt-for Stubborn Foot Odor, Athletes Foot Burning & Itching, Damaged Discolored Nails-A Natural Callus Remover 16 Ounces](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41wlCxXbacL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 23 Foot Soaking Bath Basin - Large Size for Soaking Feet, Best Pedicure at Home Spa Treatment - Callus, Fungus and Dead Skin Remover, Enjoy Hot Water Foot Massager, Scrubbing in This Tub/Bucket - Gray](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qrW7kzc6L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 19 3 in 1 Professional Foot Spa Kit-with Tea Tree Foot & Body Soak-Tea Tree Body Wash & Nail Blend-Soothes Dry, Burning & Itchy Skin-Refreshes Unwanted Foot Odor-Restores Unhealthy Nails-Purely Northwest](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dcdMGZ5dL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 20 Lotrimin Athlete's Foot Deodorant Antifungal Powder Spray, Miconazole Nitrate 2%, Clinically Proven Effective Antifungal Treatment of Most AF, Jock Itch & Ringworm, 4.6 Ounce (Pack of 3)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516aClq0EgL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 21 Purely Northwest-Natural Tea Tree & Peppermint Scalp & Body Wash-Men & Women-Soothes & Refreshes: Odor, Acne, Jock Itch, Irritated Itchy Scalp-(Can be used with a Silicone Body Scrubber) 9oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Xqq+gRbKL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 22 PURELY NORTHWEST-Tea Tree Oil & Peppermint Foot Soak with Epsom Salt-for Stubborn Foot Odor, Athletes Foot Burning & Itching, Damaged Discolored Nails-A Natural Callus Remover 16 Ounces](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41wlCxXbacL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 23 Foot Soaking Bath Basin - Large Size for Soaking Feet, Best Pedicure at Home Spa Treatment - Callus, Fungus and Dead Skin Remover, Enjoy Hot Water Foot Massager, Scrubbing in This Tub/Bucket - Gray](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qrW7kzc6L._SL160_.jpg)
Best Toenail Fungus Clippers & Files:
- You have to be careful using at home, and definitely be safe and don’t use these if you have dangerous health conditions.
- It is important to see a podiatrist for foot evaluation and care if you have continued health care issues or problems with your feet.
- These are some great value heavy-duty clippers and sets.
- The key is to cut straight across and file the nail down from the top to keep it from impinging in the corners.
- It is also important to make sure all dead, dry skin is removed surrounding the foot.
- This is where you should really see your podiatrist if you have any concerns or are worried about cutting or hurting yourself.
- This is something covered, so don’t take chances with your health!
![White Patches On Toenails 29 Nail Clippers Sets High Precisio Stainless Steel Nail Cutter Pedicure Kit Nail File Sharp Nail Scissors and Clipper Manicure Pedicure Kit Fingernails & Toenails with Portable stylish case (Black)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51VRH8CVprL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 30 Norchan Large Nail Clippers Set, 5 Pcs Sharp Toenail and Fingernail Clippers for Men and Women (Premium, Big Size, Heavy-Duty Design)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EgN2j5AsL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 31 KOHM Nail Clippers for Thick Nails - Heavy Duty, Wide Mouth Professional Fingernail and Toenail Clippers for Men, Women & Seniors, Silver](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41YBggTC9gL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 29 Nail Clippers Sets High Precisio Stainless Steel Nail Cutter Pedicure Kit Nail File Sharp Nail Scissors and Clipper Manicure Pedicure Kit Fingernails & Toenails with Portable stylish case (Black)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51VRH8CVprL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 30 Norchan Large Nail Clippers Set, 5 Pcs Sharp Toenail and Fingernail Clippers for Men and Women (Premium, Big Size, Heavy-Duty Design)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EgN2j5AsL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 31 KOHM Nail Clippers for Thick Nails - Heavy Duty, Wide Mouth Professional Fingernail and Toenail Clippers for Men, Women & Seniors, Silver](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41YBggTC9gL._SL160_.jpg)
Best Toenail Fungus Polish and Remover:
- There is some great toenail fungus polish options and polish removal options.
- There are no acetone-based toenail polish removers, they don’t dry as quickly, but they are less like a dehydrator toenail.
- This also applies to your fingernails and hands.
- The benefits of using these non-toxic toenail polishes are that they are filled with non-fungal options such as tea tree oil, preventing toenail fungus.
- These can also work well for the fingernails.
- So great combo is to use one of these healthier toenail paint options, as well as a non-acetone-based toenail polish remover.
![White Patches On Toenails 35 Karma Organic Nail Polish Remover with Soybean Oil and Lavender Oil- Non Toxic, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Acetone Free – Nails Strengthener for Fingernails – 4 fl. Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31GowlwCohL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 36 Dr.'s Remedy Total Two-In-One Base And Top Coat Nail Polish Clear Glaze Organic Nail Polishes Quick Dry, Clear Combination Base & Top Coats, 0.5 Fl Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31+LVFdemSL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 37 Teenitor Gel Nail Polish Remover Tools Kit, Nail Clips For Polish Removal, Nail Remover Pads Cuticle Peeler Nail File Buffer Nail Brushes, Nail Soak Off Clips For Hands and Toes Purple](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/5158JWKUWjL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 35 Karma Organic Nail Polish Remover with Soybean Oil and Lavender Oil- Non Toxic, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Acetone Free – Nails Strengthener for Fingernails – 4 fl. Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31GowlwCohL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 36 Dr.'s Remedy Total Two-In-One Base And Top Coat Nail Polish Clear Glaze Organic Nail Polishes Quick Dry, Clear Combination Base & Top Coats, 0.5 Fl Oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31+LVFdemSL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 37 Teenitor Gel Nail Polish Remover Tools Kit, Nail Clips For Polish Removal, Nail Remover Pads Cuticle Peeler Nail File Buffer Nail Brushes, Nail Soak Off Clips For Hands and Toes Purple](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/5158JWKUWjL._SL160_.jpg)
Best Shoes For Toenail Injuries:
- The key to prevent toenail ripping and lifting is to have good supportive shoes.
- If you have a good supportive shoe that keeps pressure off your toes in your toenails, there will be no lifting and cracking to allow bacteria and fungus to get in.
- This almost seems counter-intuitive, but when people make a switch to perfect supportive shoes that fit properly, their toenail problems almost always get better over the next few months or a year.
- Your current nail is already likely destroyed, especially with joggers toe, but let the new nail growing healthy without new damage.
- Click the following link for our most recommended shoes. Try to focus on shoes with mesh and room around the big toe and also the smaller toes.
Best Antifungal Moisture Wicking Socks:
- These are some great options for moisture-wicking sucks.
- The more you can wick moisture from your foot, the less chance there is that toenail fungus, and athlete’s foot can survive.
- We tried to focus on budget value stocks that are not too expensive.
- Sure there are better stocks out there, but these are great socks for a great price for most people.
- If you have diabetes, focus on getting yourself some diabetic socks.
Best woman’s antifungal socks:
![White Patches On Toenails 42 Saucony Women's 8/16 Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks, Grey Assorted (8 Pairs), Medium](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dTjy4ukXL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 43 Carhartt womens Plus Force Performance Work Crew 3 Pair Pack Casual Sock, Black, Medium US](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31jjjZ8hUtL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 44 CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men (8 Pairs) 15-20 mmHg Graduated Copper Support Socks are Best for Pregnant, Nurses - Boost Performance, Circulation, Knee High & Wide Calf (S/M, Multi 06)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51aOBLuCh4L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 45 SERISIMPLE Women Viscose Bamboo Ankle Socks Low Cut Thin Sock Lightweight Pastal Color Soft Sock 5 Pairs(Assorted, Medium)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416c1P0A9FL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 42 Saucony Women's 8/16 Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks, Grey Assorted (8 Pairs), Medium](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dTjy4ukXL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 43 Carhartt womens Plus Force Performance Work Crew 3 Pair Pack Casual Sock, Black, Medium US](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31jjjZ8hUtL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 44 CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men (8 Pairs) 15-20 mmHg Graduated Copper Support Socks are Best for Pregnant, Nurses - Boost Performance, Circulation, Knee High & Wide Calf (S/M, Multi 06)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51aOBLuCh4L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 45 SERISIMPLE Women Viscose Bamboo Ankle Socks Low Cut Thin Sock Lightweight Pastal Color Soft Sock 5 Pairs(Assorted, Medium)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416c1P0A9FL._SL160_.jpg)
Best men’s antifungal socks:
![White Patches On Toenails 50 Dickies Men's Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Socks Multipack](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41XK+vPvsUL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 51 Saucony Men's Multi-pack Mesh Ventilating Comfort Fit Performance No-Show Socks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41HTk3Mv-4L._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 50 Dickies Men's Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Socks Multipack](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41XK+vPvsUL._SL160_.jpg)
![White Patches On Toenails 51 Saucony Men's Multi-pack Mesh Ventilating Comfort Fit Performance No-Show Socks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41HTk3Mv-4L._SL160_.jpg)
Toenail Pain [Toenail Fungus, Ingrown Toenails, Discolored Toenails]