HomeAnswersDermatologydiscoloured nailWhat are the white circular band seen around the tip of my nail?

Why do I have some white semicircular band on my fingernails?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Chaitra. P

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At June 25, 2016
Reviewed AtJuly 4, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have noticed something different on the tip of the nails. At the tip of all nails, a band of half-white color has formed and it is going around the circumference of the nail horizontally. They are not an exact horizontal line, but a circular band around the tip of the nail. I am also attaching a picture of my nails for your better understanding. I am not sure whether they were always there or have developed recently. But, I noticed them recently. Please tell me what is the cause of this. I also have some unusual taste in my mouth or tongue. I do not know whether they are related to the nails. But, I have not had this before. Please help.

Answered by Dr. Chaitra. P

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

From the details provided, it seems as onycholysis. It means your nail tip is loosened from your nail bed underneath. In your case, it is very mild and probably due to cutting nails too short. There is nothing much to worry about at present. It is also unlikely to be related to your taste problem. You could just observe or take multivitamin tablets for a while.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I do not think that my nails are loosened from beneath. They are very much intact. My concern is that why I have some white semicircular bands on my fingernails. I have searched on the internet and I could not find this type of nail photo. I am not questioning your diagnosis here. Also, I wanted to tell you that in the past month, I was under stress. Could it be the reason? Also, on my skin when I look with full concentration I find very small shiny particles. They are not visible at first look and are difficult to spot, but when try to look under room light or in the open they it is visible. Sometimes, I get itchy bumps for no reason. Hope to find a good reason.

Answered by Dr. Chaitra. P

Hi,

Welcome to back to icliniq.com.

It is normal in most individuals to see a slight color change in nails. This is due to nutritional deficiency or daily wear and tear or environment-related or sometimes due to medicines. In your nails only there are some mild color changes at your tips. These changes could be physiological variations. Also, I find that the taste and skin problems are not related to your nails. However, as it concerns you, I suggest you consult your dermatologist for an examination of the same with suitable tests.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chaitra. P
Dr. Chaitra. P

Cosmetology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Dermatology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy