Signs of Psoriasis in Nails

Small pits may give the surface a thimble-like texture. Nails can turn yellow, white, or brown, develop reddish-brown marks beneath them, or become thick and uneven. The nail may loosen from the skin underneath, collect debris, or split at the edge. Changes can affect fingernails, toenails, or both, and may occur with plaques on the skin or without an obvious rash. Fungal infection, injury, and other nail conditions can look similar, so a clinician may examine the nail and test clippings before confirming the cause.

Keep nails trimmed without cutting the surrounding skin, wear gloves for wet or irritating tasks, and avoid biting, picking, artificial nails, and aggressive cuticle work. Keep feet dry and choose shoes with enough room for the toes. Note new pits, colour changes, pain, or separation with photographs. Book a medical review when changes persist, spread, or interfere with hand use or walking. Treating the underlying Psoriasis may help, but nail growth is gradual and improvement is not immediate.

Arrange prompt care for a painful, swollen, warm nail fold, pus, rapidly spreading redness, or a dark mark that changes or extends onto surrounding skin. Seek advice when a nail lifts after an injury, becomes very tender, or makes walking difficult. Urgent assessment is appropriate for severe pain, fever, or rapidly worsening inflammation. A new or isolated nail change still deserves review if it does not grow out normally.

Could this be nail psoriasis, a fungal infection, or an injury? Should the nail be tested? Do I have signs of Psoriasis elsewhere, and which nail-care or treatment options suit my hands and feet?