Isla Bennett
Green nails, also known as greenies or Green Nail Syndrome, are unsightly but common after gel nails are removed. The greenish discolouration is caused by a bacterial infection called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is found in water and soil. It thrives in damp, humid, and warm environments with little fresh air circulation, which is why it can grow under gel nails. To prevent this, it's important to keep your nails clean and dry, and ensure proper nail prep and removal techniques are used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Fungus and bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
| Colour | Dark green or black |
| Location | Between the nail plate and the nail bed, or between the acrylics and the nail plate |
| Treatment | Remove the gel nail, disinfect the natural nail, use antifungal treatments, keep hands and nails clean and dry |
| Prevention | Keep nails clean and dry, avoid long exposure to water, disinfect tools, ensure nails are fitted correctly |
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What You'll Learn
Green nail syndrome
The syndrome is caused by exposure to the bacterial organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is found in water sources, humans, animals, and soil. This bacteria flourishes in moist environments, such as around swimming pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, and showers, and can accumulate under gel or acrylic nails if they are starting to lift, or if there are gaps, cracks, or chips. It can also be transferred among clients in nail salons if proper hygiene standards are not maintained.
To prevent green nail syndrome, it is important to keep nails clean, dry, and trimmed. Waterproof gloves or rubber boots can be worn to avoid prolonged exposure to water. Proper removal of nail polish is also important, as picking and peeling off polish can damage the nail. Cuticle oil can be applied to moisturise and protect the nail.
If green nail syndrome occurs, treatment options are available. Removal of the nail may be necessary, and antifungal and antibiotic agents may be prescribed. Soaking the nails in vinegar or a diluted chlorine bleach solution can also help to kill the bacteria. In some cases, surgical removal of the infected nail may be required.
Overall, green nail syndrome is a rare but unsightly condition that can be prevented by maintaining proper nail hygiene and keeping nails dry. Treatment options are available but can be challenging, and often the green stain will remain even after the bacteria has been eliminated.
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Pseudomonas bacteria
The bacteria cause a greenish-yellow, greenish-brown, or greenish-black discolouration of the nail plate, and it is more common in those whose hands are constantly exposed to water, soaps, and detergents, or who work in wet environments. It is also more likely to occur if your natural nails are thin, as this can lead to lifting, creating gaps, cracks, or chips for the bacteria to enter.
Pseudomonas infections of the nails are treated with fluoroquinolones or oral quinolones (ciprofloxacin), especially in elderly patients. Home remedies include vinegar (acetic acid) soaks or diluted chlorine bleach solutions, although the effectiveness of these treatments is unclear. Topical antibiotics can also be applied to the nail bed, and oral antibiotics are used for more severe infections.
To prevent Pseudomonas infections, it is important to keep your nails clean, dry, and trimmed. When getting gel or acrylic nails, ensure they are applied and removed professionally to avoid damage to the natural nail.
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Preventing the spread
Green nail syndrome, or chloronychia, is caused by a bacterial infection known as pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacteria is commonly found in the environment, including in water and soil, and can lead to discolouration of the nails, turning them a dark green or black shade. While this condition does not cause any health issues, it can be unsightly and may indicate an opportunistic infection.
To prevent the spread and occurrence of green nails, it is important to maintain proper nail care and hygiene practices:
- Keep your nails clean and dry: Pseudomonas bacteria thrive in moist environments, so it is crucial to keep your nails dry. Wash your hands frequently and use an alcohol-based sanitizer to prevent bacterial growth. Ensure that you thoroughly dry your hands and nails after cleansing.
- Avoid prolonged water exposure: Minimize direct contact with water, especially during the first few hours after applying artificial nails. If your hands will be submerged in water for an extended period, wear gloves, and take extra care to dry your hands and nails thoroughly afterward.
- Proper nail preparation: Before applying artificial nails, ensure that your natural nails are clean, dry, and free of any bacteria. Disinfect your nail tools and work area to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Seal edges and avoid air bubbles: When applying artificial nails, ensure that the edges are properly sealed to prevent moisture retention, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Regular nail maintenance: Trim your nails regularly to prevent bacteria from becoming trapped. Disinfect the filed area with an antifungal treatment, such as tea tree oil, to inhibit fungal growth.
- Moisturize and nourish: Apply cuticle oil to moisturize your nails and cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth. Consider using a nail oil or serum that repels moisture and nourishes your cuticles.
- Disinfect and sanitize: Regularly disinfect your nail tools and sanitize your hands to prevent the spread of bacteria. Dispose of any disposable tools, such as nail files and buffers, that may have been contaminated.
- Professional removal: Always remove artificial nails professionally to avoid damage to your natural nails. They have the proper tools and techniques to safely remove gel or acrylic nails.
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Treatment options
If you notice green nails after removing gel or acrylic nails, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
- Remove any remaining nail material: Use nail clippers or a nail file to gently remove any leftover gel or acrylic nail material. Be careful not to scrub too hard to avoid damaging your natural nail bed.
- Buff away the discolouration: Gently buff the surface of your nails to remove the visible green discolouration. If the discolouration is too deep to buff out, it's best to let your nails grow out and reveal new, healthy nails.
- Soak in warm water and tea tree oil: Soak your hands in warm water for about 10 minutes, adding a few drops of tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties to help kill the fungus responsible for the green nails.
- Use cuticle remover: Apply a cuticle remover to soften any hardened skin that could trap bacteria. Be careful not to cut your cuticles too closely to avoid causing an infection.
- Disinfect with rubbing alcohol: Disinfect your nails and the affected area with rubbing alcohol, which is effective in killing the bacteria causing the green discolouration.
- Apply antifungal treatments: Use over-the-counter antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole, on your hands and around the nail bed for about a week. This should stop further fungal growth and eliminate the greenish discolouration.
- Moisturise: Complete the treatment by applying a moisturising hand cream to keep your skin hydrated. This additional step helps prevent future fungal infections.
It is important to maintain proper nail hygiene and care to prevent green nails from reoccurring. Ensure your nails are clean and dry before applying any nail products, and avoid long exposure to water. Regularly disinfect your nail tools, and practice proper removal techniques to avoid damage to your natural nails.
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Nail care tips
If you've noticed that your nails have turned green after getting gel nails, it's likely that you have what's called "green nail syndrome" or "chloronychia". This condition is caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is commonly found in fresh and salt water, as well as in soil. It thrives in damp, moist environments with no fresh air circulation, which is why it often accumulates under gel nails or acrylics, especially if they are starting to lift, creating gaps for the bacteria to enter.
- Keep your nails clean and dry. Bacteria and fungi thrive in moist environments, so maintaining clean and dry nails can help prevent their growth.
- When getting gel or acrylic nails, ensure your natural nails are also clean and dry beforehand.
- Trim your nails regularly to prevent bacteria from getting trapped.
- Disinfect the filed area with an antifungal treatment, such as tea tree oil, to kill any bacteria or fungi.
- Avoid long exposure to water, especially after getting gel or acrylic nails. Bacteria that cause green nails are commonly found in water, and soaking your nails can increase the chances of fungal growth.
- If you're going swimming or participating in activities where your hands will be submerged in water, wear gloves and dry your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Do not pick or peel off your polish. Always have it removed properly at a salon, as they have the proper tools and experience for safe removal.
- Practice proper daily nail care and get regular nail treatments to promote nail health and prevent issues like green nails.
- If you already have green nails, remove the gel or acrylic nails to allow your natural nails to breathe. Soak your hands in warm water with a few drops of tea tree oil to help kill the fungus.
- Use an antifungal cream, such as clotrimazole, on your hands and around the nail bed for a week after removing the gel or acrylic nails.
- Keep your nails shaped and free of snags by filing them with an emery board. Always file in one direction to prevent damage.
- Do not bite your nails or remove the cuticle, as this can damage the nail.
- Apply cuticle oil to moisturize your nails and cuticles, keeping them healthy.
- If your nails change, swell, or cause pain, consult a dermatologist, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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Frequently asked questions
If your nail has turned green, it is most likely due to a bacterial infection. This can happen when the nail bed is damaged during the gel nail application or removal process, allowing bacteria to enter and colonize the area.
Soak the affected nail in warm water and mild soap to gently clean the area and remove any visible debris. You can also apply over-the-counter antibacterial creams or ointments to help clear the infection.
In most cases, a bacterial nail infection is relatively mild and can be treated at home. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread and cause more serious issues, including permanent nail damage, and in rare cases, bone infection.
Ensure your nail technician is properly trained and licensed, and that they practice good hygiene during the gel nail application and removal process. You can also ask about the products being used and choose a salon that uses sterile, disposable tools for each client.
Yes, you can try soaking your nails in a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar, which has natural antibacterial properties. Applying tea tree oil to the affected area may also help due to its antimicrobial properties. However, if the infection persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.
