Caleb Foster
Nail discolouration can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, nail polish, and underlying health conditions. While some cases of nail discolouration may resolve on their own or with simple home remedies, others may require medical attention and treatment. In this article, we will explore the various causes of nail discolouration and provide guidance on how to address and prevent this issue. From proper hygiene practices to medical treatments, we will offer comprehensive advice on restoring the healthy appearance of your nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of nail discoloration | Fungal infection, bacterial infection, medication, smoking, nail polish, nail injury, melanoma, poor hygiene, humid environment, age |
| Treatment | Soak nails in diluted vinegar, lemon juice, or a mixture of water, baking soda, and lemon juice; spot treat with nail polish remover; buff with a nail file; use vitamin E oil, antifungal cream, or oral antifungal medication; apply a base coat before nail polish |
| Prevention | Wash feet regularly, moisturize, wear breathable shoes, trim nails, use clean and moisture-wicking socks, avoid tight shoes, wear shoes in public areas, avoid walking barefoot, spray shoes with antifungal spray |
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What You'll Learn
Soak nails in a mixture of water, baking soda and lemon juice or vinegar
Discoloured nails can be caused by a variety of conditions, including bacterial infections, fungal infections, nail injuries, and reactions to medications. To combat this, you can soak your nails in a mixture of water, baking soda, and lemon juice or vinegar.
Firstly, prepare a bowl of warm water and add one tablespoon of white vinegar. Soak your nails in this mixture for about 10 minutes, and then wash your hands with warm water. This method is particularly effective for removing stains on nails.
Alternatively, you can squeeze the juice from half a fresh lemon and mix it with two tablespoons of baking soda. Once the mixture is combined, immediately dip your nails into the mixture and let it sit for about 10 minutes. After this, use a brush to gently scrub your nails to remove the stains, and then wash your hands with water.
You can also add some hydrogen peroxide to the mixture to create a homemade nail hardener treatment. Simply mix one teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide and one tablespoon of baking soda into a bowl of warm water. Soak your nails for about 10 minutes, and then use a brush to gently scrub the nail to remove any remaining stains. Be sure to moisturize your hands afterward, as hydrogen peroxide can dry out the skin.
This soaking method is a simple and effective way to help your nails become healthy and naturally shiny.
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Spot treat stains with nail polish remover
If you have isolated stains or marks on your nails, you can try spot-treating them with nail polish remover. Soaking your nails in a mixture of water, baking soda, and lemon juice is another effective method to remove stains from your nails.
Firstly, wet a cotton ball or swab with a small amount of nail polish remover. Gently pat the areas of discoloration with the nail polish remover, focusing on one stain at a time. Avoid rubbing too hard so that the gel color remains as intact as possible.
It is important to note that nail polish is one of the most common causes of nail discoloration. Nail polishes contain a variety of pigments and chemicals that can penetrate the nail and alter its color. Red and orange-colored nail polishes are more likely to cause discoloration.
To prevent nail discoloration caused by nail polish, you can apply a clear base coat before applying colored nail polish. This helps create a protective layer between your nails and the colored polish, preventing stains.
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Apply vitamin E oil to nails and nail beds
Vitamin E oil is a highly moisturising natural ingredient that can be beneficial in treating nail discolouration. Vitamin E oil is a necessary supplement that promotes nail growth and improves nail health by adding strength and hydration when applied to the nails and cuticles. It also has excellent moisturising properties that treat and prevent cracked cuticles and dry skin around the nail bed.
Vitamin E oil can be applied to any part of the skin. It is a group of fat-soluble vitamins with antioxidant properties. The high antioxidant content of Vitamin E oil aids the body's elimination of free radicals. Vitamin E oil can also protect your nails from free radical damage. When you apply vitamin E oil to your nails, it creates a protective barrier between your nails and cuticles, protecting your nails from any type of harmful outside damage.
To incorporate vitamin E oil into your nail care routine, you can make your own vitamin E oil at home. Here is a simple recipe:
- Combine two tablespoons of castor oil with 1/4 teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
- Thoroughly mix it, then add the essential oils of rosemary and frankincense.
- Once again, combine all of the oils.
- Once finished, transfer the oil to a glass container.
It is important to begin with a low concentration of vitamin E oil and apply a thin layer over the affected area. Over several days, gradually increase the amount until reaching the levels recommended on the package. It is also important to read the label carefully and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage.
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Soak nails in a foot bath with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda
Toenail discoloration can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, nail injuries, and certain medications. While prescription medications are available to address these issues, some people prefer natural remedies, such as foot baths containing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
Before attempting any foot soak, it is important to understand that they are not always recommended by healthcare providers. According to chiropodist Megan Grantham, "if you routinely shower and clean your feet, there are very few medical reasons to add a foot soak." Additionally, in the case of fungal infections, Grantham notes that "fungus loves a dark, moist environment, so soaking the nail and allowing it to absorb moisture isn't helpful."
However, for those who still wish to try a foot bath with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, here is a general guide:
- Clean and dry your feet before starting the treatment. This is important to prevent the fungus from spreading and to promote healing.
- Prepare the foot bath by mixing equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water in a basin large enough for your feet. You can also add baking soda to this mixture, as it helps to raise the pH level, making it harder for the fungus to survive.
- Soak your affected foot in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes.
- After soaking, rinse your foot thoroughly with warm water and pat it dry.
- You can repeat this process once daily. However, be cautious not to overuse hydrogen peroxide, as it can lead to skin irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
While this method may help with mild toenail fungus, it is important to note that hydrogen peroxide cannot reach all areas of the nail, making it ineffective for more severe cases. If your nail discoloration persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for alternative treatment options.
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Treat nail fungus with antifungal cream or oral medication
Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common cause of nail discolouration. It occurs when dermatophytes move under your nails. Toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails, and older adults are more prone to nail fungus.
If you have nail fungus, your nail colour might be yellow, white, brown, or green-black. The nail may become thicker and change shape, and the nail may also separate from the nail bed.
To treat nail fungus, you can use antifungal cream or oral medication. Topical treatments with nail polish or cream may take up to a year to work. These treatments contain antifungal ingredients such as amorolfine or ciclopirox. Amorolfine is applied one to two times a week, while ciclopirox products are applied every other day in the first month, at least twice a week in the second, and once a week in the third. With both treatments, use an alcohol swab to remove the old layer of polish before applying a new layer.
Oral medications are more effective than topical treatments but have more side effects. These medications are usually taken for several weeks or months. They can also affect the liver, so liver function tests may be necessary during treatment. If your nail fungus is severe, your doctor may recommend combining oral medication with a topical treatment.
If your nail fungus does not respond to treatment, your doctor may recommend surgically removing the infected nail to treat the nail bed. To prevent nail fungus, keep your feet clean and dry, wear shoes that fit well and are made of breathable materials, and disinfect nail clippers and home pedicure tools.
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