What should you know about lifted nail bed treatment?

Nail separation, also called onycholysis, happens when part of the nail plate loses contact with the skin beneath it. The detached area may look white, yellow, or grey because air sits under the nail. A knock, repeated wet work, tight footwear, manicures, irritation from chemicals, or a skin condition can contribute. Nail fungus and nail psoriasis are two possible causes, but the appearance alone cannot confirm either one.

The separated portion cannot be glued back onto the nail bed. A healthy nail must grow forward from its base and gradually replace the lifted section. Fingernails can take several months to grow out, so improvement is assessed over time rather than by an immediate change.

Keep the nail short by trimming only the loose edge with clean clippers. Do not pull attached nail, scrape beneath it, or cover it with artificial nail products. Keep the area clean and dry, wear gloves for prolonged contact with water or cleaning products, and avoid picking at the cuticle. A clinician may examine the nail, surrounding skin, and other nails, and may take a sample if fungus is suspected. Treatment then targets the cause rather than the detached nail itself.

If injury caused the separation, cushioning the nail and preventing further knocks can help while it grows. Do not start antifungal or steroid treatment without an assessment, because different nail problems can look similar.

Arrange an appointment if the separation is spreading, affects several nails, keeps returning, or has no clear trigger. Seek prompt medical care for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, bleeding, a dark mark that does not grow out, or redness moving into the finger or toe. People with diabetes, reduced circulation, or a weakened immune system should seek advice early for any nail injury or possible infection.

Ask what cause is most likely, whether a nail sample or skin examination is needed, how long regrowth may take, and which products or activities should be avoided. You can also ask whether Nail Fungus, Nail Psoriasis, or Nail Surgery information is relevant to your situation.