Isla Bennett
Healthy nails are typically smooth and free of discoloration, with a moisture level of about 18%. Nails that are too dry or too moist can become brittle and prone to splitting and cracking. Nails that have absorbed too much water may appear clear, soft, and flexible, and they may tear easily. Clear nails can also be a sign of adequate hydration, as moisturized nails tend to be more translucent than dry nails. Changes in nail color, texture, or shape can sometimes indicate an underlying disease, such as lung disease or rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause yellow nails. Other nail issues, such as black lines, can be the result of trauma to the nail or, in rare cases, a more serious underlying condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of clear nails | Moisture level in the nail |
| Overexposure to water | |
| Overexposure to chemicals | |
| Poor nutritional intake | |
| Poor digestion | |
| Repeated wetting and drying of fingernails | |
| Natural nail thickness | |
| Genetics | |
| Health | |
| Solutions | Apply lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin |
| Wear gloves while washing dishes or performing other water-heavy tasks | |
| Avoid chemicals around nails | |
| Rehydrate nails with jojoba wax ester-based nail and cuticle oil |
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What You'll Learn
Clear nails can be a result of overexposure to water
Healthy nails contain about 18% water. However, overexposure to water can cause your nails to absorb too much water, making them appear clear. Nails that have been soaking in water become overly soft, flexible, and prone to tearing. This is because water can pass between the keratin cells and through the flattened cells, weakening the nail plate by separating the keratin layers. This can lead to serious peeling and splitting problems.
Repeated wetting and drying of the nails can cause them to become brittle and crack easily. This condition is known as onychoschizia and may also be a sign of hypothyroidism or iron deficiency. To prevent water damage to your nails, it is recommended to wear gloves while performing water-heavy tasks such as washing dishes.
Additionally, the moisture level of your nails affects their appearance. Typically, the nail tips that have grown out become dry and appear opaque. However, well-moisturized nails will be more translucent. The white tips that we often associate with healthy nails are due to the lack of hydration from the nail bed. As such, clear nails can be a sign of proper hydration and healthy moisture levels.
To maintain healthy nails, it is important to strike a balance between keeping your nails hydrated and avoiding overexposure to water. Rehydrating your nails with a high-quality, jojoba wax ester-based nail and cuticle oil can help counteract the effects of water exposure.
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Nails that are drying out can turn white
The appearance of our nails can tell us a lot about our health. Nails that are growing clear could be a sign of well-moisturised nails, which is a good thing. However, if your nails are turning white, it could be a sign that your nails are drying out.
In some cases, white nails can indicate more serious underlying health issues. For example, whole nail whitening could be a sign of kidney problems, while thickened nail plates could indicate a fungal infection. White nails have also been associated with anemia, weak nails, heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and liver disease.
It is important to note that white spots on the nails, known as leukonychia, are usually harmless and may be caused by injuries, infections, or allergic reactions to nail products. These spots will typically grow out over time. However, if you are concerned about any changes in your nail colour or experience tenderness or pain, it is recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for further assessment.
Overall, while nails drying out and turning white may not always be a cause for concern, it is important to be aware of potential underlying health issues and seek professional advice if necessary.
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Yellow nails could indicate an infection or reaction to nail polish
Yellow nails are relatively common and usually indicate either an infection or a reaction to nail polish.
Infection
Yellow nails are often a sign of a fungal infection. Feet spend more time in warm, damp environments like shoes and often come into contact with fungi on surfaces such as public showers, pool decks, and locker room floors. In addition, people with diabetes are also more prone to getting fungal nail infections.
Reaction to Nail Polish
Yellow nails can also be a result of staining from frequent use of nail polish. Nail polish often contains pigments that can leave behind a yellow stain, especially if used frequently without a protective base coat. Nail polish remover, particularly those with strong solvents like acetone, can dry out the nails and strip away their protective layers, making them more susceptible to staining.
Other Causes
Yellow nails can also be caused by:
- Smoking
- Vitamin or mineral deficiencies
- Thyroid conditions
- Psoriasis
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Liver disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Lung disease
- Certain medications
Treatment
Treatment for yellow nails typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause. If the yellowing is due to an infection, tea tree oil is an easy treatment to try. If it is caused by a reaction to nail polish, allowing new nail growth to come in without polish can help. In addition, vitamin E supplements or a nail cream containing vitamin E can help tackle infections and improve nail health.
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Brittle nails may be caused by repeated wetting and drying
Brittle nails, also known as onychoschizia, are usually caused by repeated wetting and drying of the fingernails. This can be due to frequent hand washing, washing dishes, or other activities that expose the nails to water. The moisture from these activities can strip the nails of their natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness.
To prevent this, it is recommended to wear gloves when doing water-heavy tasks such as washing dishes or cleaning. This creates a barrier between the nails and water, reducing the risk of moisture loss. Additionally, moisturizing the hands and nails with lotions or creams that contain lanolin or alpha-hydroxy acids can help replenish moisture and prevent dryness. It is also suggested to moisturize after washing hands or at night before bed to maximize the absorption of moisture.
In addition to external factors, internal factors such as iron deficiency or hypothyroidism can also contribute to brittle nails. Ensuring proper nutrition, including sufficient protein and iron-rich foods, can help strengthen nails and prevent brittleness.
It is important to note that nails can also become brittle due to overexposure to moisture. This is often caused by the use of harsh chemicals such as detergents, household cleaners, or nail polish remover. In these cases, reducing exposure to such chemicals and opting for natural alternatives can help restore nail health.
If home remedies and proper nail care do not improve brittle nails, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine any underlying causes and receive appropriate treatment.
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Changes in nail colour, texture, or shape can indicate disease
Changes in nail colour, texture, or shape can indicate an underlying disease. While nail abnormalities are often harmless, it is important to see a dermatologist if you notice any changes.
Nails that are pale or white in colour could indicate anaemia or liver disease. However, scattered white spots on the nails can signify a zinc deficiency, which is common in middle-school-aged children. Nails that are mostly white with darker rims can indicate liver problems such as hepatitis, and jaundice.
Yellow nails are relatively common and are usually caused by a fungal infection. In rare cases, yellow nails may indicate a more serious condition, such as severe thyroid disease, lung disease, diabetes, or psoriasis. Yellow nails that thicken and stop growing could be a sign of Yellow Nail Syndrome, which is associated with serious lung disease and lymphatic issues.
Nails with a bluish tint may indicate that the body isn't getting enough oxygen, possibly pointing to a lung problem such as emphysema or heart disease. Nails with a purplish undertone could indicate 'azure lunula', medically known as cyanosis. Bluish nails may also be a sign of argyria (silver poisoning) or Raynaud's disease.
If the surface of your nails is rippled or pitted, this may be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. Pitted nails can also indicate alopecia areata.
Brittle nails are usually caused by repeated wetting and drying of the fingernails, but they can sometimes indicate hypothyroidism or iron deficiency.
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Frequently asked questions
Healthy nails are considered to be smooth with no discoloration. Nails that are growing clear might be a sign that they have absorbed too much water. Healthy nails have about 18% water, but too much moisture can weaken the nail plate, leading to serious peeling and splitting problems.
Nails that are growing clear might be a sign of overexposure to moisture or chemicals such as detergent, cleaning fluids, nail treatments, nail polish, or polish remover.
According to Dr. Mark Benor, a clinical assistant professor of family medicine, "nail issues usually don't bespeak a serious underlying illness." However, according to Dr. Sara Norris, a naturopathic doctor, "nail health is most often an indicator of poor nutritional intake or poor digestion."
To combat the effects of water on your nails, rehydrate them with a high-quality, jojoba wax ester-based nail and cuticle oil. You can also try wearing gloves while washing dishes or doing other water-heavy tasks.
It could be due to moisture levels. Typically, nail tips that have grown out get dry, so they appear opaque. However, a well-moisturized nail will be more translucent.
