An ongoing myth survives that the white spots occasionally found on fingernails are indicators of calcium deficiency. This can be traced back to the incessant promotion of calcium enriched nail strengtheners claimed to eradicate these mysterious discolorations.
However, these white spots are usually not a sign of deficiency rather an indicator of past injury to the fingernail. This is also referred to as “leukonychia”.
These typically form from injury to the base of the nail and due to the time it takes nails to grow shows up weeks after the initial incident; causing enough time in between that you probably forgot about hitting your finger in the first place.
White spots can also be caused by nail biting, manicures, and minor reactions to nail polishes. These are all temporary and will grow out as your nail does.
Rarely discoloration in your nails indicates a basal disease, but these would be accompanied by additional symptoms or increased severity. Darker colored spots are more alarming, and are the ones that should be granted more attention.
Ultimately, the white spots you occasionally notice appearing on your fingernails are benign and will grow out with time.
