8. Leukonychia Leukonychia is a nail disorder that is easily recognized by white spots or streaks on the nails. They are often caused by minor injuries or trauma to the nail matrix. Leukonychia is not contagious. It does not involve any infectious properties. Nail techs can work on clients with leukonychia without concern. However, handling the client’s nails gently to prevent further damage to the nail plate is recommended. Clients with leukonychia can receive nail services safely.
Leukonychia at a Glance Definition : White spots or lines on the nails. Causes : Minor injury, infection, allergic reactions, systemic illnesses. Symptoms : White discoloration spots or lines. Risk factors : Nail trauma, certain medical treatments. Diagnosis : Clinical examination, assessing underlying causes. Treatment : Usually not needed unless associated with an underlying condition. Prevention : Protecting nails from trauma, ensuring proper nutrition. Beau’s Lines at a Glance Definition : Transverse grooves or depressions on the nail plate. Causes : Severe illness, malnutrition, trauma, chemotherapy. Symptoms : Horizontal lines across the nails. Risk factors : Any systemic illness, severe stress. Diagnosis : Visual inspection, review of medical history. Treatment : Addressing underlying health issues; nails grow out normally over time. Prevention : Maintaining overall health, avoiding severe physical stress. Ingrown Toenails at a Glance Definition : Corner or side of a toenail grows into the area around the nail. Causes : Tight shoes, cutting toenails too short or not straight, injury, having very curved toenails, nail infections, medical conditions. Symptoms : Pain, inflamation, swelling, infection. Risk factors : Toe injury, constrictive shoes, diabetes, reduced ability to care for nails. Diagnosis : Visual inspection. Treatment : Address underlying health issues, allow nails to grow out normally over time. Prevention : Trimming nails straight across, keeping toenails at a moderate length, wearing shoes that fit properly.
9. Beau’s lines Beau’s lines are horizontal depressions or ridges that appear across the nails, often resulting from temporary disruptions in nail growth due to various factors such as illness, injury, severe stress, or zinc deficiency (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). This condition is not contagious or infectious. Nail technicians can buff the nails to smooth ridges caused by Beau’s lines (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
10. Ingrown toenails (Onychocryptosis) Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding area, causing pain, redness, and swelling. They are not contagious and typically result from improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or genetics. Nail techs can work on clients with ingrown toenails, but caution is necessary to avoid exacerbating the condition. Affected nails should be handled gently, avoiding unnecessary pressure or trauma. Maintaining proper hygiene and disinfecting tools and surfaces is crucial to infection prevention. Clients with severe cases may require medical intervention, but nail techs can provide relief through careful nail care practice.
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Book Code: NTNC0825
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