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Scalp, Hair and Nails (Onycholysis)
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Picture of Onycholysis
Onycholysis: Loosening of the nail from the nail bed, usually starting at the border of the nail. The nail tends to turn whitish or yellowish, reflecting the presence of air under it. The treatment is to trim the nail short, do not clean under the nail, and be patient. It generally takes 2 to 3 months to clear up.
Image Source: Color Atlas of Pediatric Dermatology
Samuel Weinberg, Neil S. Prose, Leonard Kristal
Copyright 2008, 1998, 1990, 1975, by the McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary by MedicineNet, Inc.