What Causes Toenails to Turn White?

Healthy toenails typically exhibit a subtle pinkish luster. When toenails turn white, it may signal an underlying health issue. So, what causes toenails to become white? Below, we explain the possible reasons.

What Causes Toenails to Turn White?

1. Trauma

If white spots appear beneath the toenail, the most common initial consideration is trauma—such as compression or impact injury—to the toe. Such injury may cause partial nail plate necrosis, impairing calcium and collagen absorption, thereby resulting in white spots on the nail plate. Therefore, when white spots are observed, patients should first recall whether their toes have recently sustained any trauma.

2. Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

One presentation of onychomycosis is “leukonychia” (white discoloration of the nail), often beginning at the nail root. Small white spots appear on the nail surface and gradually enlarge, causing the nail plate to soften and sink, ultimately forming white patches. If the nail turns white and progressively becomes grayish, thickened, and brittle, onychomycosis is highly likely—and prompt evaluation and treatment at a reputable medical facility are essential.

3. Poor Circulation or Anemia

Consistently pale or whitish toenails may indicate insufficient blood supply—commonly associated with anemia, blood deficiency (“blood cold”), general qi and blood insufficiency, or hypotension. A waxy, lusterless white appearance of the toenails often suggests chronic blood loss, such as from gastric ulcers or hookworm infection. Horizontal white lines across the nail (Mees’ lines) typically reflect decreased serum albumin levels.

4. Nutritional Deficiency

Nails serve as indicators of overall nutritional status. Whitening or white spots on toenails may result from malnutrition—specifically deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements—which deprive the nails of essential nutrients. Consequently, nails may appear pale, lack luster, become uneven or ridged, and lose smoothness.

The above outlines the main causes of whitening toenails. We hope this information is helpful to you.