What is the term for an ingrown nail?

The term for an ingrown nail is onychorcryptosis. This condition occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, redness, and infection. Understanding this term is essential, especially in a professional setting, since ingrown nails can impact a client's comfort and overall nail health.

Leukonchia refers to white spots or discolorations on the nails, often resulting from trauma or underlying health issues, but it does not pertain to the growth pattern of the nail itself. Onychororrhexis describes the splitting or brittle nature of the nails, which is a different condition entirely. Pterygium refers to a condition in which the skin grows over the nail bed, often seen in cases of certain skin diseases or conditions but unrelated to the phenomenon of ingrowth. Knowing the correct terminology helps in diagnosing and providing appropriate care for nail-related issues in esthetics.