What should you know about nails lifting from nail bed treatment?

Onycholysis is a gap between the nail plate and nail bed. The detached part may look white, yellow, or grey because air is underneath it. Repeated wet work, manicures, trauma, irritants, skin disease, and infection can all contribute. The separated section usually does not reattach to the existing nail; improvement is seen as new nail grows from the base.

Nail fungus and nail psoriasis are possible causes, but a lifted nail does not by itself establish either diagnosis. A clinician may inspect the nail and surrounding skin and arrange testing when infection is suspected.

Keep the nail trimmed to the attached edge, avoid pulling it off, and protect it from snagging. Keep hands and feet dry after washing, use gloves for wet or chemical work, and pause gels, acrylics, harsh removers, and aggressive filing. Do not place medication under the nail unless a clinician recommends it.

Treatment may involve addressing an infection, inflammation, irritant, or mechanical trigger. If the detached nail is painful, repeatedly catching, or hiding a problem, a clinician may discuss [Nail Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/nail-surgery/).

Book an assessment when separation persists, affects several nails, keeps returning, or is accompanied by thickening, debris, pits, or skin rash. Seek prompt care for pus, warmth, spreading redness, fever, severe pain, or a dark area that was not explained by an injury.

Ask what pattern suggests trauma, fungus, or psoriasis, whether a sample is needed, and how to protect the nail while it grows. Ask how to use any prescribed treatment and what signs would mean the diagnosis or plan needs review.