Isla Bennett
There are several reasons why your gel nails might be turning orange. One common cause is an excess intake of carotene-rich foods like carrots and sweet potatoes, which can lead to an orange hue on your nails. Additionally, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as low levels of vitamin D, B12, zinc, or iron, can also cause nail discolouration. Other potential factors include smoking, exposure to water, and contamination of the tools or products used during the manicure process. It's also possible that your nails are discoloured due to an underlying nail fungus, especially if they have thickened recently.
Why are my gel nails turning orange?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Excess intake of carotene-rich foods | Carrots, sweet potatoes, orange fruits and vegetables |
| Vitamin and mineral deficiencies | Vitamin D, B12, zinc, iron |
| Nail fungus | Nails have thickened |
| Smoking | |
| Water exposure | |
| Hand cream | |
| Dye from clothing or makeup | |
| Brush contamination | |
| Plastic gloves |
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What You'll Learn
Excess intake of carotene-rich foods
An excess intake of carotene-rich foods can lead to a benign medical condition known as carotenemia, which causes yellow or orange discolouration of the skin and nails. This condition is often mistaken for jaundice, a more serious condition. Carotenemia is caused by the excessive consumption of carotenoids, which are organic compounds found in various plants and food items. Beta-carotene, in particular, is the main carotenoid found in plants and is most often responsible for this condition.
Carotenemia is characterised by elevated levels of carotenoids in the blood, resulting in a yellow or orange hue to the skin and nails. This discolouration is due to the deposition of carotenoids in the stratum corneum, with the colour change most prominent in regions of increased sweating and thicker skin, such as the palms, soles, knees, and nasolabial folds. However, it is important to note that carotenoderma, the skin discolouration caused by carotenemia, is rare across the whole body.
The development of carotenemia is typically a result of a diet rich in carotene-containing foods. These include red, yellow, orange, and dark leafy green fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, papaya, cantaloupe, winter squash, broccoli, spinach, kale, red and yellow bell peppers, and tomatoes. It is worth noting that infants and toddlers are more susceptible to carotenemia due to their consumption of pureed orange and green vegetables, which contain high levels of carotene. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as anorexia nervosa, can also contribute to carotenemia due to diets that are rich in carotenoids.
The treatment for carotenemia primarily involves reducing the consumption of carotene-rich foods and supplements. However, it is important not to completely eliminate these foods from the diet, as they provide essential nutrients. A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables can help prevent carotenemia while still enjoying the health benefits of carotene-containing foods. In most cases, reducing carotene intake will lead to the resolution of skin and nail discolouration over time.
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Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
While orange nails can be caused by external factors such as smoking, hand cream, dyes from clothing, and make-up, they can also be indicative of vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Nails are often described as a mirror of internal constitution and nutritional status. Changes in the nail can be indicative of a variety of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Deficiencies in several vitamins or minerals can cause nails to become brittle. This includes a lack of iron, B vitamins like biotin or B12, zinc, protein, or magnesium in your diet.
Biotin, a B vitamin, is involved in many body functions and plays an important role in strengthening hair and nails. A deficiency in this vitamin is generally rare but may occur in certain cases. For example, consuming raw egg whites can cause biotin deficiency as they contain a protein called avidin, which binds to biotin and reduces its absorption.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with nail hyperpigmentation, and its reversal through B12 supplementation is well documented. Other vitamins and minerals that contribute to nail health include riboflavin, pyridoxine, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin D, amino acids, and gelatin.
It is important to note that changes in nail colour can be caused by various factors, and it may be difficult to determine a nutritional deficiency solely based on nail appearance. If you suspect a vitamin or mineral deficiency, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional who can order tests to check your vitamin and mineral levels.
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Nail fungus
There are several reasons why your gel nails could be turning orange. One potential cause is nail fungus, which can lead to thickened nails and discoloration. Other possible causes include dietary factors, such as an excess intake of carotene-rich foods like carrots and sweet potatoes, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including vitamins D and B12, as well as zinc and iron deficiencies. Additionally, exposure to certain chemicals or substances, such as hair dye, hand cream, or the use of plastic gloves, could be contributing factors. It is also worth considering smoking as a potential cause, as quitting can have benefits for both nail health and overall well-being.
To address the issue of nail fungus, it is recommended to seek medical advice from a certified physician or dermatologist. They may suggest antifungal treatments, such as oral or topical medications, to eradicate the fungal infection and restore nail health.
In terms of dietary modifications, reducing the consumption of carotene-rich foods can help alleviate the orange hue. Incorporating a variety of vitamin-rich foods into your diet can also aid in addressing potential deficiencies. Taking a multivitamin supplement that includes vitamins D, B12, zinc, and iron can help correct any nutritional imbalances contributing to nail discoloration.
Proper nail care and maintenance are also important. Opting for professional nail services and regular manicures by qualified technicians can help maintain nail health and color. Additionally, removing gel or acrylic nails safely and effectively can prevent damage and discoloration. Taking breaks between nail polish applications allows your nails to breathe and return to their natural color.
If you suspect that exposure to certain chemicals or substances is the culprit, try identifying any new products or routines that coincide with the onset of nail discoloration. Discontinuing the use of these products or practices can help determine the cause and prevent further orange discoloration.
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Smoking
If you are a smoker, you may want to consider opting for darker or more vibrant shades for your nails, such as deep reds, purples, or blues, which are less likely to show stains. You can also utilize glitter polishes or gradient techniques to distract from any yellowing or stains, effectively masking discolouration and adding a stylish look. Additionally, using extra top coats can help create a stronger barrier against stains, and you can buff off any discolouration and reapply the topcoat to renew the shine.
To minimize staining, it is recommended to avoid direct smoke exposure to the nails and practice regular at-home nail care. You can also try soaking your nails in a mixture of lemon juice, baking soda, and water to naturally bleach out yellow stains. For minor stains, lightly dab the affected area with isopropyl alcohol, being cautious not to overdo it to avoid drying out your nails. Educate yourself on smokeless alternatives like nicotine pouches or vaporizers, which are less likely to cause nail discolouration.
Consider quitting smoking not only for your nail health but for the numerous other beauty and health benefits.
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Contamination
Additionally, the use of certain tools and techniques during the application process can contribute to contamination. For example, brush contamination may occur if the brush used for application is not properly cleaned and maintained. In one instance, a nail technician mentioned using acetone to clean their brushes, which led to concerns about potential contamination. It is recommended to test your brush by dipping it in monomer and wiping it on a clean white tissue; if the tissue turns yellow, it's an indication to discard the brush.
Another potential source of contamination is the use of plastic gloves, which can cause nails to turn yellow or brown. This discolouration may be due to the interaction between the plastic gloves and certain products used on the nails. It is important to note that not all plastic gloves are created equal, and some may contain tanning ingredients or other chemicals that can react with the nails.
To prevent contamination and discolouration, it is essential to maintain proper nail care and hygiene practices. This includes regularly cleaning and sanitizing tools, using high-quality products, and being mindful of any external factors that may interact with your gel nails.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several reasons why gel nails may be turning orange. One reason could be an excess intake of carotene-rich foods, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, which can lead to an orange hue on your nails. Another reason could be vitamin deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin D, B12, zinc, or iron. Additionally, exposure to certain chemicals or dyes, such as from hair dye or clothing, could be causing the discoloration.
To prevent your gel nails from turning orange, ensure you maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables. Avoid overconsuming carotene-rich foods while still enjoying them in moderation. If you suspect vitamin deficiencies, consider taking a multivitamin supplement that includes vitamin D, B12, zinc, and iron.
If your gel nails have already turned orange, there are a few solutions you can try. Firstly, consider giving your nails a break from polish to allow them to breathe and return to their natural color. You can also try a nail detox by using natural stain removers like lemon juice and baking soda. Additionally, regular manicures by a qualified nail technician can help maintain nail health and color.
