A pitted nail can signal an underlying health issue like psoriasis.

Nails are tiny telltales. When something shows up on their surface, it’s tempting to treat it as simply a cosmetic thing. But in the world of nail health, a feature like pitting can speak louder than color or shine. For anyone working with nails or studying topics that show up on the state board, understanding what pitted nails mean is useful—and it can be a sign to pause, observe, and perhaps redirect a client to medical care if needed.

Pitted nails: what they look like and why they happen

Think of the nail plate as a tiny factory—keratin is laid down in layers, building a smooth surface over time. When that process gets disrupted, you end up with pits: small dents or indentations on the nail surface. They can be shallow or a bit deeper, and they may give the nail a rough texture. The pits aren’t something you can “rub away” with abrasion or buffing; they’re a sign that something’s changed at a deeper level.

So, what causes pitting? In many cases, it’s linked to inflammatory or immune-related conditions. The most common association you’ll hear about is psoriasis—a skin condition that can involve the nails too. But pitting isn’t exclusive to psoriasis. It can appear with other skin disorders and inflammatory states, and in some cases it might reflect a broader health issue that’s worth noting for the client’s overall well-being. In short: pitting is more than a cosmetic quirk. It’s a signal to pay attention.

Why this matters for manicurists and nail professionals

Let me explain it plainly: you’re not just shaping nails when you notice pits. You’re adding a layer of care that recognizes the whole person, not just the tips. If a client has pitting, it’s a cue to approach with a bit more curiosity and caution. You don’t diagnose—that’s outside the scope of nail work—but you can observe, document what you see, and guide the client toward talking with a healthcare professional if needed.

Pitted nails often come with other clues. The surrounding skin might be dry or inflamed, or there may be changes to other nails on the same hand or on the other hand. Maybe the client reports prior skin conditions, joint stiffness, or a family history of autoimmune issues. None of this is a guarantee, but it’s useful information for you to take note of during a session. The main takeaway: treat the nails with gentleness, avoid aggressive filing or harsh chemicals, and encourage a medical consult when appropriate.

What to look for in the chair

If a client's nails show pits, you can use a simple, respectful checklist to guide your observations and conversations:

• Nail surface: Are there multiple pits across several nails, or is it limited to one? Is the surface rough, with tiny craters, or does it feel slightly sandpapery?

• Other nail signs: Are there ridges, discoloration (like white spots or dark streaks), separation from the nail bed (onycholysis), or thickening? Are the cuticles extra dry or inflamed?

• Skin signals: Is the surrounding skin dry, cracked, or irritated? Any eczema flare, psoriasis patches nearby, or joint discomfort in the hands?

• Symptoms: Has the client noticed nail fragility, pain, or slow growth? Do they have a history of autoimmune conditions, or a recent illness that involved the skin or joints?

What this information means—and what it doesn’t

Here’s the important part: spotting pits doesn’t mean the nails are ruined or that the client is unwell. It means there’s something happening somewhere in the body that can affect nail formation. The most common link you’ll see is psoriasis, a condition that can touch the skin, scalp, and nails. But keep in mind that pitting isn’t a diagnosis in itself. It’s a sign that a broader look at health could be warranted.

In practice, patients may have pitting without any noticeable symptoms elsewhere, or they may have a constellation of skin and joint signs. Some people with pitting experience minimal discomfort, while others might deal with itchiness, flares, or tenderness. The variability is exactly why you approach with care, not alarm, and why you know when to suggest medical input.

Salon care with pitted nails: practical tips

If you’re working with pitted nails, you can still deliver excellent service—just tailor your technique and products to reduce trauma and keep the nails and surrounding skin comfortable. Here are practical moves that fit most situations:

• Gentle handling: Avoid aggressive filing that could catch in pits or lift the nail surface. Use light pressure and a fine-grit file, moving steadily in one direction rather than back-and-forth rubbing.

• Moisture matters: Pitted nails can be a sign of dryness. Use a hydrating cuticle oil and a nutrient-rich hand lotion after the service. Consider a silicone-based barrier or a hydrating base coat to minimize moisture loss during the appointment.

• Shield the nail plate: A nourishing base coat helps protect the nail as you add polish. Choose formulas that are free from harsh solvents and fragrances if the client has sensitive skin.

• Skin-friendly products: Go with acetone-free removers if possible, or at least ventilate well and minimize exposure time. For polish, pick a formula known for gentle wear and easy removal without harsh scraping.

• Temperature and time: Keep the client comfortable; long soaking or soaking with hot water can worsen dryness and irritate the surrounding skin, especially if pits are accompanied by dry skin.

• Avoid irritants: If the client reports allergies or sensitivities, tailor the product lineup carefully. Some people react to certain dyes, fragrances, or preservatives—so listen closely to what has bothered them in the past.

A note on safety and cleanliness

Salons are spaces of trust. When you see pits, you might wonder about possible infections or deeper problems. While no one service in a nail salon should substitute medical care, you can help by ensuring clean tools, avoiding shared files on tools, and keeping the area dry and clean. If there’s redness, swelling beyond the cuticle line, warmth, or pain, those are flags that deserve medical attention.

Conversation and care: how to talk with clients

Communication matters as much as technique. A thoughtful, non-alarming approach makes a big difference. You can say something like:

• “I notice some shallow pits on your nails. That can happen with certain skin conditions—nail changes don’t always mean trouble, but sometimes they’re a signal worth checking out with a clinician.”

• “Would you like me to note this in your file and suggest a follow-up with your doctor or a dermatologist if you have other symptoms?”

• “Let's keep your nails comfortable and moisturized while we work. If anything feels tender, tell me right away.”

It’s okay to acknowledge uncertainty. You don’t have to have all the answers. The goal is to care for the nails you see, respect the client’s health, and guide them toward appropriate next steps when necessary.

Common myths to keep in mind

• Pitting equals poor health or a poor condition of nails: Not necessarily. It’s a sign that deserves attention, but it’s not a verdict on overall health.

• Only psoriasis causes pits: While psoriasis is a well-known cause, other conditions and inflammatory processes can feature pitted nails.

• If you don’t see other symptoms, there’s nothing to worry about: Sometimes pitting is the first clue that prompts someone to seek medical advice later on.

A broader perspective: nails as health indicators

Nails aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re like tiny barometers for the body’s systems—hydration, nutrition, circulation, and inflammation all leave signals in the nails. Pitted nails are one such signal. You don’t have to become a clinician, but appreciating that nails can reflect health helps you serve clients with more empathy and effectiveness. In many ways, your role is to observe, inform, and guide.

Real-world scenarios worth knowing

Consider these common situations you might encounter in a salon:

• Scenario A: A client has several pit marks on multiple nails, mild dryness around the cuticles, and reports occasional joint stiffness in the morning. You note the signs, keep the service gentle, and suggest a medical follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen.

• Scenario B: A client has pits but no other nail changes or skin symptoms. You still approach with care, use gentle products, and perhaps recommend a routine for nail hydration at home, with caution about any sensitivities.

• Scenario C: A client with a known psoriasis history arrives for a color service. You tailor the experience to minimize trauma—carefully file, protect the nail bed, and discuss the possibility of continuing treatment in consultation with their dermatologist.

Connecting back to the question: what does pitting imply?

The core takeaway for students and professionals is clear. When a nail shows pits, it often points to an underlying health condition, with psoriasis being a well-recognized example. It’s less about cosmetic fuss and more about holistic care: observe, document, and respond with gentleness in the salon, and encourage medical evaluation when the signs align with other symptoms.

A final thought: listening is part of the service

Nails tell stories—but you don’t have to have all the chapters figured out. Your job is to listen, observe, and respond with practical care. Even a simple note about pitting can open a conversation that helps someone catch a health issue early or simply ensure they’re getting the right kind of support. That’s the real win: nails that look good and, more importantly, nails that support well-being.

If you’re studying topic areas that come up in nail health discussions, keep this framework in mind: identify pits, assess for related signs, apply gentle care, and steer toward professional medical input when warranted. It’s a balanced approach that respects both the art of nail work and the science of health. And at the end of the day, that balance helps you serve every client—confidently, compassionately, and with solid professional judgment.