Koilonychia, or spoon nails, is a condition where the nail bed is flat or concave and dips or waves are visible on the surface of the nail. In the most severe cases of  koilonychia, the nail actually looks like a shallow shaped spoon with the edges of the nail flaring out. Often the nail is split in the middle of the nail bed. The causes of spoon nails vary. Sometimes it can be hereditary and in this case multiple nails will be spooned shaped. Sometimes clients continually pick, bite or rub a nail which causes the nail bed to take on the spoon shape. Severe trauma to the matrix of the nail can also cause this condition. Rarely, koilonychia is the result of a systemic problem, such as lung or heart problems or even cancer.

Doctors will evaluate the nail and get a patient’s history to determine the cause of the disorder. The doctor may opt for no treatment, knowing the deformed nail will grow out; she may recommend an iron supplement, or she may order more tests. Once a doctor has determined there is no risk, nail techs can apply an overlay to even out and correct the concave nail.

Beware that when koilonychias is in the advanced stages, it is possible for bacteria to get lodged in the split nail.  Sometimes trapped bacteria or fungus will turn the area yellow or green. Do not apply product over any crack in the nail if the skin is exposed since water can be trapped and bacteria can grow, even with careful preparation. Be careful when your nails look odd and check with your nail tech or with your doctor. (Info for this article is from Nails Magazine.)  

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