Toenails might not be something you think about every day, but they should be. These small but mighty parts of your body can actually reveal a lot about your overall health.

At Callen Olive, our expert podiatrists in Amersham and Berkhamsted help patients across the UK identify what’s going on beneath the surface, starting with their toenails.

If you’ve noticed changes in colour, shape, thickness or texture, don’t ignore them. Let’s take a closer look at what your toenails could be trying to tell you.

1. Yellow, Thickened Toenails?

Could indicate: Fungal infection, psoriasis or diabetes

If your toenails have become yellow, thick, or crumbly, you might be dealing with a fungal nail infection (medically known as onychomycosis). This is a common condition we treat regularly in our podiatry clinics, especially among active adults and older clients.

But discoloured or distorted nails can also be linked to psoriasis, or even poor circulation caused by type 2 diabetes, a growing concern in the UK.

Callen Olive Tip:  . We recommend avoiding oils or balms on the affected nail, as they may trap moisture and worsen the condition. Instead, keep the area clean and dry, and if discolouration persists, book in with one of our HCPC-registered podiatrists.

2. Soft, Peeling or Brittle Nails?

Could indicate: Nutritional deficiencies or prolonged moisture exposure

If your toenails feel weak, bend easily, or flake at the tips, your body may be lacking in iron, zinc, or biotin. These deficiencies are especially common during menopause or periods of stress.

Excess moisture, from daily showers, sweat, or soaking your feet, can also compromise the keratin structure of your nails, leading to peeling.

Callen Olive Tip: Keep feet dry between washes, and massage in a nutrient-rich cuticle oil to restore nail health from the base.

3. Dark Lines or Spots Under the Nail?

Could indicate: Bruising or rare cases of melanoma

A black or dark purple spot is often just a bruise from pressure, especially if you wear tight shoes or have stubbed your toe.

However, if you notice a dark vertical stripe that doesn't grow out with the nail, it could be a sign of subungual melanoma, a rare but serious form of skin cancer.

Callen Olive Caution: If in doubt, get it checked by a GP or podiatrist. Early diagnosis is crucial.

4. White, Pale or Spoon-Shaped Nails?

Could indicate: Iron-deficiency anaemia or liver issues

White or spoon-shaped toenails that curve upwards can signal anaemia, a common condition in women across the UK. It’s caused by a lack of iron and may be accompanied by fatigue or breathlessness.

These changes could also be linked to liver disease, so it's always wise to follow up with your GP.

Callen Olive Tip: Your nails are one of the first places nutritional stress shows up, don’t ignore the subtle signs.

5. Ridges or Grooves?

Could indicate: Ageing, illness or thyroid conditions

Vertical ridges are usually harmless and part of natural ageing, but deep horizontal grooves (Beau’s Lines) might appear after serious illness, trauma, or thyroid imbalance.

If your nail texture has changed recently or across multiple nails, it’s worth getting a full health review.

Callen Olive Tip: Gently buff ridges and use cuticle oil to boost blood flow to the nail matrix.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Here in the UK, podiatry is often overlooked until something becomes painful, but prevention is key. If your nails show persistent or unusual changes, it could be a sign that something bigger is going on with your health.

At Callen Olive, our HCPC-registered podiatrists provide expert nail care, fungal nail treatment, and preventative foot care in Amersham and Berkhamsted. We blend clinical excellence with luxury product care, because you deserve both.

Ready to Put Your Best Foot Forward?

Don’t let hidden issues linger. Your toenails are a vital part of your body’s communication system, when they change, it’s time to listen. Explore our podiatrist-formulated foot and nail care range.