Sophia Delgado
Stained nails are discoloured nails that may have yellow, green, or black patches on the surface. This can be caused by frequent use of nail polish, particularly dark-coloured nail polishes, or by fungal infections, which affect up to 14% of the adult population. While there are several over-the-counter treatments for discoloured nails, such as nail colour correctors, creams for athlete's foot, and treated patches, there are also many DIY methods to remove stains and brighten nails, including the use of lemon oil and lemon juice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lemon oil's effectiveness in removing dark stains from toenails | Lemon juice is naturally acidic and can help brighten discolored nails. It is rich in vitamin C, which nourishes the nails. |
| Other remedies for nail discolouration | Tea tree oil, Vicks VapoRub, sea salt treatment, olive oil, egg yolk, beer, milk, and hydrogen peroxide. |
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What You'll Learn
Lemon juice can be used to soak nails
To make a lemon juice soak, combine one tablespoon of lemon juice with two tablespoons of baking soda to make a paste. Then, gently scrub your nails with a toothbrush and rinse with water after 10 minutes. You can also add other ingredients to the lemon juice, such as olive oil or coconut oil, to create a hydrating agent.
It is important to note that while lemon juice can be effective in treating nail discolouration, it can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Citrus juices like lemon can remain on your skin and, if exposed to sunlight, can cause an unpleasant skin reaction called phytophotodermatitis, resulting in redness, streaks, rashes, or painful blisters. Therefore, it is recommended to rinse thoroughly and moisturise after using a lemon juice soak and avoid sun exposure immediately afterward.
In addition to lemon juice, there are other home remedies for nail discolouration, such as olive oil, egg yolk, beer, and milk. For example, you can mix two teaspoons of fine sea salt with two drops each of lemon juice or oil, myrrh oil, and wheat germ oil. Put this mixture in lukewarm water and soak your hands for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process twice a week. Alternatively, you can use nail colour correctors, nail polish brighteners, or hydrogen peroxide to help conceal and treat nail discolouration.
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A paste of lemon juice and baking soda can be used to scrub nails
Lemon juice and baking soda can be used to scrub nails and reduce discolouration. This method is particularly useful for stained and flaky toenails. To make the paste, combine one tablespoon (15ml) of lemon juice with two tablespoons (30ml) of baking soda. Apply the paste to the top of your nails and underneath the tips using a cotton swab. Leave the paste on your nails for 10 minutes, then wash your hands with soap and warm water.
Lemon juice can sting, so it's important to keep it away from any cuts, tears, or hangnails. If you don't have lemon juice, you can replace it with hydrogen peroxide. Mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to form a paste, then let it sit on your nails for 10 minutes.
Another variation of this remedy includes sea salt. Mix two teaspoons of fine sea salt with two drops each of lemon juice or lemon oil, myrrh oil, and wheat germ oil. Put this mixture in lukewarm water and soak your hands for 10-15 minutes.
Nail discolouration can be caused by certain polishes, fungal infections, and lifestyle factors. While completely curing fungal infections is difficult, treatments can discourage the problem from spreading and improve the appearance of your nails.
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Tea tree oil can be used to treat toenail fungus
While there is no direct evidence that lemon oil removes dark stains from toenails, lemon juice is a popular home remedy for treating discoloured nails. To use lemon juice to brighten your nails, combine one tablespoon of lemon juice with two tablespoons of baking soda to make a paste. Then, gently scrub your nails with a toothbrush and rinse with water after 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can mix lemon juice or lemon oil with sea salt, myrrh oil, and wheat germ oil, and soak your hands in the mixture for 10-15 minutes.
The effectiveness of tea tree oil in treating nail fungus has been supported by some scientific studies. A 1994 study found that pure tea tree oil was equally effective as the antifungal clotrimazole in treating fungal toenail infections. Additionally, a 2013 study showed that tea tree oil reduced the growth of the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, which can cause nail fungus and athlete's foot. However, more large-scale human studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the most effective treatment methods.
In addition to tea tree oil, there are other natural remedies that can be used to treat mild toenail fungus. Apple cider vinegar creates an acidic environment that may prevent the fungus from spreading, and garlic contains allicin, a compound with potent antifungal properties. Baking soda can also help absorb moisture, reducing fungal growth. For more severe or persistent fungal infections, it is recommended to seek medical attention from a podiatrist or specialist.
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A treated patch containing urea can be used overnight
While there is no direct evidence that lemon oil can remove dark stains from toenails, there are several other options to treat discoloured toenails.
One popular option is Vicks VapoRub, which contains thymol and other essential oils that may fight fungus. You can also use tea tree oil, which has the best evidence for treating toenail discolouration. Various creams sold to treat athlete's foot can also be used on your toenails.
If you're looking for an overnight solution, a treated patch containing urea can be used. Urea is an acidic substance that improves the look of your nails by making them less brittle and discoloured. It is often used to treat thick, dystrophic fungal (onychomycosis) nails, softening the diseased nail while leaving healthy nails intact. Urea is also thought to improve the efficacy of topical and oral antifungal agents.
Urea nail gel can be applied generously to the nail and allowed to dry. You may cover the nail with a bandage or gauze if your doctor advises. The treated nail should be easily removed after several days. It is important to note that urea nail gel is only for use on the skin and should not be ingested. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying this medicine, unless you are treating the skin on your hands.
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Applying a rubberized base coat before nail polish helps prevent staining
While there is no direct evidence that lemon oil removes dark stains from toenails, lemon juice is a popular home remedy for nail discolouration. Mixing lemon juice with baking soda creates a paste that can be scrubbed onto the nails with a toothbrush. Other home remedies include olive oil, sea salt treatments, and tea tree oil.
> A base coat helps the polish stick to the nail more easily; creates a barrier that protects nails from the damaging effects of the polish; prevents staining and peeling; and gives nails a more even texture. A base coat ultimately extends the life of your manicure.
Applying a rubberized base coat before nail polish can help prevent staining. The base coat acts as a barrier between the nail and the coloured polish, protecting the nail plate from damage and discolouration. It also helps the polish adhere better to the nail, extending the life of your manicure. Base coats are fortified with substances such as protein, vitamin E, or calcium, which improve nail health and prevent breaking, splitting, and peeling.
A good base coat is essential as it sets the foundation for the manicure. It should be applied smoothly and evenly to freshly cleaned nails. After the base coat dries, which usually takes about two minutes, you can proceed with your nail polish. It's recommended to apply two thin coats of coloured nail polish to give your nails a richer look.
ORLY offers a highly-rated rubberized gripping base coat called ORLY Bond, which is inexpensive and dries quickly. It bonds easily to the nail, protecting it from the trauma of polish and nail polish removers.
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Frequently asked questions
Mix two parts baking soda with one part olive oil and one part lemon oil. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the mixture onto your nails in a circular motion.
You can soak your toenails in lemon juice for five minutes before washing it off with warm water. Repeat this process daily until the stains disappear. Alternatively, you can use tea tree oil, Vicks VapoRub, or patches containing urea.
Toenail discolouration can be caused by fungal infections, which are highly contagious and can spread to other nails if left untreated. It can also be caused by using dark-coloured nail polishes.
Before applying nail polish, use a rubberized base coat to reduce the risk of staining. Consuming foods rich in vitamin E or purchasing vitamin E supplements can also help prevent discolouration.
