Nail Conditions We Treat
Your nails can reveal more than you might expect about your health. Many nail conditions start as small cosmetic concerns, such as discoloration or brittleness, but may signal underlying infections, inflammatory disorders, or even systemic issues. If your nail changes aren’t improving or are becoming more uncomfortable, it’s time to consult a skin and nail expert.
At Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI), we treat a wide range of nail problems across all ages. Our board-certified dermatologists offer in-depth evaluations and tailored nail disease treatment from our offices in Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, and throughout Palm Beach County.
Medical Nail Care: When to See a Dermatologist
While many people attempt to treat nail issues at home or in salons, certain symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. According to the Mayo Clinic, warning signs like thickening, ridging, lifting, or chronic discoloration may point to deeper concerns. Some conditions mimic one another, and only a qualified dermatologist for nails can make a definitive diagnosis.
If you’re seeking nail treatment in Palm Beach Gardens or Wellington, our practice offers expert evaluation, lab testing, and advanced treatment options that go far beyond what drugstore remedies can provide.
Common Nail Conditions We Diagnose and Treat
We regularly treat both common and complex nail concerns. Below are some of the most frequent conditions we address.
Brittle and Splitting Nails
Nails that peel, crack, or split may be the result of repeated water exposure, nutrient deficiencies, or underlying endocrine conditions. If your nails never seem to grow or frequently break, a clinical evaluation is the best next step.
Explore brittle and splitting nail care
Green Nail Syndrome
Caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, green nail syndrome produces a green or dark hue along the nail plate. It’s often seen in people who wear artificial nails or work in wet environments. Left untreated, it may worsen or spread.
Learn about green nail syndrome treatment in South Florida
Ingrown Toenails
Painful pressure and swelling at the nail border are signs of an ingrown toenail. This condition can become chronic if not properly managed. Our team performs in-office procedures to remove the impacted nail edge and help prevent future episodes.
See our ingrown toenail treatment approach
Nail Discoloration
From yellow or brown staining to white spots or black lines, nail discoloration can result from fungus, trauma, psoriasis, or medication side effects. It may also indicate internal health conditions that need further evaluation. A medical provider should check if there is any persistent color change.
Nail Thickening
Nail thickening is often caused by fungal infection, injury, or skin disorders like eczema or psoriasis. When nails become hard to trim, change shape, or cause discomfort, it’s important to identify the cause early and begin treatment that targets the underlying problem.
Nail Ridging
Vertical ridges may occur naturally with age, but horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) can reflect illness, stress, or metabolic disruption. Severe nail ridging can also be linked to chronic inflammatory skin conditions. Our providers can distinguish between harmless patterns and those that require further attention.
Why Expertise Matters in Nail Disease Treatment
According to a 2022 review published in Clinical Dermatology, nail symptoms often appear similar across different conditions, making accurate diagnosis crucial.¹ At DCSI, we take the time to determine what’s driving your nail disorders and build a plan that addresses both symptoms and root causes. Our methods may include cultures, microscopy, antifungal therapy, or corticosteroid options when inflammation is present.²
We serve patients looking for a trusted nail care dermatologist throughout Palm Beach County. Whether you’re dealing with subtle nail changes or ongoing discomfort, our team is here to help.
Care Across South Florida
With a board-certified dermatologist in Wellington and additional offices in Palm Beach Gardens and surrounding communities, our practice is committed to providing accessible care throughout the region. Whether you’ve been managing a chronic nail infection or recently noticed a change, we encourage you to take the next step toward healthier nails.
If you’re concerned about persistent nail conditions, contact Dr. Mounir M. Wassef and the team at Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI) today. We’re here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care for all types of nail problems, from cosmetic changes to complex medical conditions, right here in South Florida.
Want to stay up to date on the latest in dermatology? Visit our dermatitis blog for expert insights and skincare tips curated by our local providers.
Sources
- Piraccini BM, Alessandrini A. Nail diseases: a practical approach to diagnosis and management. Clin Dermatol. 2022;40(1):90–99. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2021.07.005. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35238267/. Accessed July 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. 7 fingernail problems not to ignore. Mayo Clinic. Published September 14, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/7-fingernail-problems-not-to-ignore/art-20546860#:~:text=Sometimes%20detached%20nails%20are%20due%20to%20an,%E2%80%94%20also%20can%20lead%20to%20nail%20separation. Accessed July 2025.