Noah Sinclair
Gel nails are a popular choice for those wanting a long-lasting manicure, but they can sometimes turn yellow. There are several reasons why this might happen, from excessive sun exposure to chemical reactions, and from fungal infections to the use of low-quality nail polishes. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and treat discoloured nails, from natural remedies like lemon juice and vitamin E to professional treatments. So if you're experiencing yellow nails, don't panic – there are solutions to help you get your nails looking their best again.
Do gel nails go yellow?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Causes of yellow nails | Excessive sun exposure, chlorinated swimming pools, hair dyes, some makeup products, household cleaning products, turmeric and other cooking spices, hand sanitizers, smoking, bacterial or fungal infections, thyroid, liver and lung diseases, diabetes, nail polish staining, application errors, and more |
| Prevention methods | Use a base coat, allow nails to breathe, choose high-quality nail polish, avoid shaking the nail polish bottle, use vitamin E, use water-permeable nail polish, and more |
| Remedies | Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, buff nails gently, soak nails in lemon juice or a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda, apply rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover, use tea tree oil, oregano oil, or hairspray |
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What You'll Learn
Excessive sun exposure
Gel nails can turn yellow due to excessive sun exposure. Nails that are exposed to sunlight for too long can turn a dark yellow-orange colour, but they usually return to their normal colour when kept out of the sun.
The sun is a significant source of UV rays, which can cause gel nails to turn yellow. The effects of UV exposure can be subtle or drastic, depending on the duration and intensity of the exposure. To prevent this, you can apply a clear dual sealer or a clear base coat to your nails, which will provide protection against UV damage. Additionally, covering your nails with a towel or sunscreen products can also protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays.
If you plan on spending a lot of time in the sun, it is recommended to cover your nails or wear gloves to prevent discolouration. This is especially important if you are handling dyes or other chemicals, as they can also contribute to nail discolouration.
In some cases, the cause of yellow nails may be related to the use of certain products, such as termite spray, which can react with sunlight to cause discolouration. If you suspect that a specific product is causing your nails to turn yellow, you can test this by soaking a piece of white paper or paper towel with the product, letting it dry, and then exposing it to sunlight to observe any colour changes.
While yellowing of the nails due to excessive sun exposure can be unsightly, it is usually not a cause for serious concern. Proper nail care, protection from the sun, and avoiding exposure to certain chemicals can help prevent and reverse nail discolouration.
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Chlorinated swimming pools
Swimming in chlorinated pools can cause gel nails to lift, soften, or discolour. However, the impact of chlorine on gel nails is not consistent and depends on various factors. Some people report that their gel nails remain intact after swimming, while others experience lifting or softening of the gel. It is recommended to apply a topcoat before swimming and to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward to minimize potential damage.
The varying experiences may be attributed to the type of gel used, as some brands are better formulated to withstand water. For example, Calgel and Iz Gel are mentioned as suitable options for those frequently in the water. Additionally, proper preparation and aftercare, such as ensuring fat-free nail beds and following brand instructions, can also influence the durability of gel nails during swimming.
It is worth noting that while chlorine can be harsh on gel nails, it does not weaken the glue or polish, according to some sources. Casual swimmers or vacationers are likely to find that their gel manicures remain unaffected, even lasting beyond their return to regular life. However, those who swim more frequently, such as swim instructors, may experience more noticeable effects from prolonged chlorine exposure.
To minimize the potential damage to gel nails, it is advisable to take precautionary measures. Applying a topcoat before swimming can provide an extra layer of protection. Additionally, washing hands with soap and water immediately after swimming can help remove any chlorine residue. Choosing gel nail products that are designed for durability in water and following proper preparation and aftercare instructions are also essential steps to ensure the best outcome.
In summary, while swimming in chlorinated pools may cause issues with gel nails for some individuals, it is not a universal experience. The impact depends on factors such as the type of gel used, proper preparation and aftercare, and the frequency of swimming. By taking precautionary measures and choosing suitable products, it is possible to minimize potential damage and maintain the integrity of gel nails even when swimming in chlorinated pools.
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Using a base coat
Gel nails can turn yellow due to various reasons, including excessive sun exposure, chlorinated swimming pools, hair dyes, some makeup products, household cleaning products, and even some hand sanitizers. However, using a base coat is an effective way to prevent gel nails from turning yellow.
A base coat acts as a barrier between the nail and the polish, preventing direct contact with the pigments and chemicals in the polish that can cause discoloration. It is essential to choose a high-quality base coat, as cheaper alternatives may not provide the same level of protection. Additionally, allowing the base coat to dry completely before applying the gel polish is crucial for optimal results.
By creating this protective layer, the base coat prevents staining and discoloration caused by the strong dyes and pigments in nail polishes, especially darker shades. This is because the base coat prevents direct contact between the dye and the nail bed, reducing the likelihood of chemical reactions that can lead to yellowing. A good-quality base coat will also allow the nail polish to adhere better, resulting in a longer-lasting manicure.
Furthermore, using a base coat can help protect your nails from the sun's UV rays, which can cause yellowing over time. While a base coat alone may not be enough to prevent excessive sun exposure, when combined with other protective measures, it can help reduce the chances of yellowing. This includes covering your nails when spending time in the sun or wearing gloves when handling dyes, chemicals, or swimming in chlorinated pools.
In summary, using a base coat is a simple yet effective way to prevent gel nails from turning yellow. By creating a protective barrier, allowing the nails to breathe, and reducing direct contact with pigments and chemicals, a high-quality base coat can keep your nails looking healthy and vibrant.
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Nail polish staining
Gel nails can go yellow, but it's usually due to external factors rather than the gel polish itself. In fact, several people have reported that gel polish stains less than normal polish. Dark-coloured normal nail polishes, in particular, can leave behind a yellow stain if applied directly to a naked nail.
There are several ways to prevent gel nails from going yellow. Firstly, it's important to cover your nails if you're spending a lot of time in the sun or using sunbeds, as UV rays can cause discolouration. Similarly, spending a lot of time in a chlorinated swimming pool can cause yellowing, so it's best to keep your nails covered or wear gloves. Hair dyes, some makeup products, household cleaning products, and even some hand sanitisers can also cause discolouration, so it's a good idea to wear gloves when handling these substances.
If your gel nails do happen to go yellow, there are several ways to remove the stains. One method is to fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add 3-4 drops of tea tree oil. Soak the affected nail for at least 5 minutes, then remove it from the water and wash your hands. You can repeat this process daily until the stains are gone. Another method is to use a cotton ball or swab moistened with nail polish remover or isopropyl alcohol to gently dab the affected area until the stain fades away. Be careful not to scrub too hard, and avoid using this method on large areas of skin, as these products can be drying and irritating.
If the above methods don't work, you can try spraying the stained nail with hairspray and then quickly wiping it off with a cotton swab. Finally, if all else fails, you can add a new layer of colour to the affected nail, or redo the entire set.
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Vitamin E treatments
Gel nails can turn yellow due to excessive sun exposure, spending time in chlorinated swimming pools, and exposure to dyes and other chemicals. However, vitamin E treatments can help address this issue and improve overall nail health. Vitamin E oil can be applied to the nail bed and cuticle to reverse damage caused by nail polish remover and nail polish, including yellowing of the nails. It is also intensely moisturising, providing hydration to dry and brittle nails. To use vitamin E oil for nail health, it can be applied lightly to the cuticles and nails or all over the hands and nails in the form of a hand cream. This can be done twice a day, morning and night, and it is recommended to allow the oil to absorb for a few minutes or to wear cotton gloves to lock in the moisture.
Vitamin E is a common ingredient in many nail oils and hand creams due to its benefits for the nails and skin. In addition to reducing nail discolouration, vitamin E oil can help protect the nails from damage caused by free radicals. This is because vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, creating a protective barrier for the nails. As such, it can be particularly useful for those who are constantly switching between nail polish colours to prevent yellowing of the nails.
It is important to note that excessively yellow nails may be a symptom of a fungal infection, and vitamin E is not a treatment for this condition. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor if your nails are severely yellow before deciding on a treatment method. Additionally, those who are undergoing treatments with blood thinners, statins, or certain chemotherapy drugs should consult their doctor before using vitamin E oil, as oral ingestion of vitamin E can lead to an increased risk of bleeding when combined with these medications.
While vitamin E oil is a popular treatment for nail health, there are also other methods to address nail discolouration. For mild and recent yellowing, washing the hands thoroughly with soap and water may be effective. For dip powder nails, gentle buffing can be used to remove the top coat and assess if the yellowing can be removed. Soaking the nails in a mixture of lemon juice, baking soda, and water for 10 to 15 minutes can help correct discolouration, and applying rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover with a Q-tip can also be effective. In some cases, hairspray has been found to remove yellowing from nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails can turn yellow due to a reaction between the polish and the natural oils on your nails, or from prolonged exposure to the chemicals in the polish. Excessive sun exposure can also cause discolouration.
To prevent your gel nails from turning yellow, you should let your nails breathe by taking breaks from nail polish. You can also use a base coat to create a barrier between your nails and the polish, preventing discolouration.
If your gel nails have turned yellow, you can try washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You can also try soaking your nails in lemon juice, which is a natural bleaching agent, for 10-15 minutes.
