Isla Bennett
The stuff you put around your fingernail is called nail polish or nail varnish. It comes in a variety of colours and can be applied to the nail plate, which is the part of the nail that you can see. The nail plate sits on top of the nail bed, which is the skin underneath the nail. It's important to note that some chemicals in nail polish can irritate the skin around the nails, and nail biting can damage the tissue that makes nails grow, so it's always good to be careful when applying and removing nail polish and to avoid biting your nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| General Name | Nail |
| Technical Name | Fingernail |
| Parts | Cuticle, Hyponychium, Proximal Fold, Nail Plate, Nail Bed, Nail Matrix, Lunula, Eponychium |
| Diseases | Onycholysis, Chronic Paronychia, Melanonychia |
| Causes of Diseases | Fungal Infections, Nail Psoriasis, Iron Deficiency, Hyperthyroidism, Candida Albicans, Irritants, Allergens, Skin Cancer, Injury, Bacterial Infections, Viral Infections |
| Symptoms of Diseases | Nail Separation, Nail Discoloration, Inflammation, Redness, Tenderness, Swelling, Thick and Yellow Nails, White Spots and Streaks, Tough and Thick Nail Beds, Abnormal Border Between Pink and White Areas of Nail |
| Treatments | Topical Steroids, Antibiotics, Avoiding Irritants, Wearing Gloves, Clean Socks and Protective Shoes |
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Nail polish
Over time, the formula for nail polish has been revised to enhance its decorative properties, improve safety, and prevent cracking or peeling. Modern nail polish consists predominantly of a film-forming polymer dissolved in a volatile organic solvent, with nitrocellulose being the most common polymer. Gel nail varnish, on the other hand, typically uses an acrylate copolymer as its polymer base. To achieve the desired finish, low levels of various additives, such as plasticizers and pigments, are included in the formulation.
In addition to the wide range of colours available, nail art has emerged as a creative way to decorate and embellish nails, with social media platforms fuelling a culture of sharing nail art designs. The global nail polish market has experienced significant growth, with sales in the United States alone reaching $768 million in 2012, reflecting a 32% increase from the previous year.
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Fungal infections
I assume you are referring to cuticles, which are the proximal folds that create a seal to prevent germs and bacteria from reaching the nail matrix, where new cells are created.
Fungal nail infections are common and are caused by fungi that enter through small cracks in your nail or the nearby skin. These fungi are normally present in and on the body but can multiply and lead to infections. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so this type of environment can cause them to naturally overpopulate. The same fungi that cause jock itch, athlete's foot, and ringworm can cause nail infections.
Fungal nail infections cause the nail to become discoloured, thickened, and distorted. Distal subungual infections are the most common type of fungal nail infection and can develop in both fingernails and toenails. When infected, the outer edge of the nail has a jagged appearance with white and/or yellow streaks across the nail. The infection invades the nail bed and underside of the nail. White superficial infections usually affect toenails. A certain type of fungus attacks the top layers of the nail and creates well-defined white spots on the nail. Eventually, these white patches cover the entire nail, which becomes rough, soft, and prone to crumbling. Spots on the nail may become pitted and flaky. Proximal subungual infections are uncommon but can affect both fingernails and toenails. Yellow spots appear at the base of the nail as the infection spreads upward. This infection can commonly occur in people with compromised immune systems.
Candida is a type of fungus that affects fingernails more commonly than toenails. It often occurs in people who frequently soak their hands in water. These infections usually start at the cuticle, which becomes swollen, red, and tender to the touch. The nail itself may partially lift off the nail bed or fall off completely.
Fungal nail infections can be treated with antifungal medication, which comes in tablets or a special paint that is applied directly to the nail. Laser treatment is another option for stubborn infections, but it may need to be repeated several times for up to a year and is not available on the NHS. In some cases, a procedure to remove the affected nail completely may be recommended if the infection is severe and other treatments have not worked.
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Manicure safety
I assume you are referring to the cuticle when you say "the stuff you put around your fingernail". The cuticle is a thin layer of dead tissue that forms a seal between the nail plate and the eponychium to prevent pathogens from infecting the matrix area.
Now, on to manicure safety.
Prevent Infections
Infections can be transferred in salons, so it is important to be vigilant. If you notice any redness, swelling, or an abscess in your nail bed after a manicure or pedicure, seek immediate medical attention. If you have an open wound, rash, or eczema outbreak on your feet or legs, do not get a pedicure. Shaving your legs can also increase the risk of bacteria exposure, as microtraumas develop on the skin.
Choose a Clean Salon
While most nail salons follow strict cleanliness and disinfection guidelines, it is important to check that the salon appears clean and that the staff are experienced and qualified. Ask how they clean their tools and whether they have a license, if required.
Take Precautions with Your Cuticles
Do not cut or forcefully push back your cuticles, as this can cause infection. If you must push them back, do so gently after a shower or bath. Be wary of nail technicians who cut the cuticle with nippers, as this can be dangerous. Instead, they should use a spoon-shaped remover or curette to gently scrape the cuticle.
Moisturise Your Nails
Apply a moisturising cream to your nails, especially after removing nail polish, as most removers contain chemicals that dry the nails.
Be Careful with Products
Avoid products that can irritate your nails or the skin around them, such as nail polish, nail gloss, nail hardener, nail polish remover, and fake nails. If you choose to wear nail polish, apply an extra layer of base coat underneath bright colours to prevent discolouration.
Protect Your Nails
Wear gloves when doing activities that may damage your nails, such as washing dishes, playing sports, or working outside.
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Nail biting
There are several strategies to stop biting your nails. Firstly, identify your triggers. Are there specific situations, thoughts, or movements that make you bite your nails? Once you know your triggers, you can develop a plan to avoid or manage them. For example, if you bite your nails when anxious, you could try squeezing a stress ball or playing with a fidget toy instead. You could also try chewing gum or sucking on hard candy to keep your mouth occupied.
Another strategy is to make your nails less tempting to bite. Keep your nails trimmed short, and consider applying bitter-tasting nail polish, available over-the-counter. Alternatively, dip your nails in water and then salt, leaving a gross taste in your mouth when you bite them. Painting your nails or getting a manicure can also deter you from biting them, as you don't want to ruin your nice-looking nails.
Gradual approaches can also be effective. Try stopping biting one set of nails, such as your thumbnails, first. When successful, move on to another set, with the goal of eventually stopping nail biting altogether.
If you are unable to break the habit on your own, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can help address the underlying psychological aspects of nail biting. Therapy can be combined with habit-reversal training if needed.
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Nail abnormalities
Healthy nails are smooth and have consistent colouring. However, as you age, your nails may develop vertical ridges and become more brittle. This is harmless. Nail abnormalities can result from injuries to the fingers and hands, viral warts, infections, and some medications.
Leukonychia
Non-uniform white streaks or spots on the nails, often due to drugs or disease. This condition is common in children and active adults and is usually harmless.
Pitting
Common in people with psoriasis, pitting is the presence of small depressions on the nail surface. The nail can become loose and may even fall off.
Koilonychia
Also known as "spooning", this disorder is associated with iron deficiency and/or anemia. The nail has raised ridges and is thin and curved inward.
Yellow Nail Syndrome
Yellow nail syndrome is characterised by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached. It is most commonly associated with lung disorders and lymphedema.
Onycholysis
Onycholysis is when the nail plate separates from the nail bed, causing a white discolouration. This can be due to infection, trauma, or products used on the nails, such as nail polish, nail gloss, nail hardener, nail polish remover, and fake nails. It can also be caused by fungal infections, certain medications, and nail psoriasis.
Nail Care
To prevent nail abnormalities, it is important to take good care of your nails. Avoid biting or tearing at your nails, and always use nail clippers. Keep your nails dry and clean, and trim them straight across, gently rounding the tips.
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Frequently asked questions
The stuff you put around your fingernail is called nail polish or nail varnish.
Nail polish is used to colour fingernails and toenails with a decorative lacquer.
The skin around your fingernail is called the cuticle.
The white half-moon shape on your fingernail is called the lunula.
