Nails can say a lot about our overall health. When they become discolored, it can be a sign of having contracted an infection or fungus. However, having yellow nails can have various origins.
Nails can occasionally turn yellow as a symptom of something more serious, such as chronic lung conditions, internal malignancies, lymphatic obstructions, and even rheumatoid arthritis. But to get out of doubt it is better to know the possible causes of this discoloration.
Factors that help to have yellow nails
If nails have been damaged by harsh dyes or products, new growth will tend to be light and healthy in color. Overuse of nail polish can cause toenails to become discolored. In particular, wearing red, yellow, or orange nail polish can make your toenails look yellow.
However, if the nails are still yellow, there may be something else on the body. Sometimes having yellow nails can be a sign of something more serious. Vitamin or mineral deficiencies can cause nails to look yellow, so using a multivitamin supplement could stop the problem early.
A change in nail color can also be a sign of something more serious. Diseases of the thyroid, liver, and lungs , among other conditions such as diabetes, can cause nails to turn yellow. Nails that remain yellow despite treatment can be a symptom of these conditions. In rarer cases, that nail color can indicate the presence of skin cancer.
As if smoking doesn’t have a long enough list of negative health effects, it also plays a role in having yellow nails. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes are the culprits, so the best option is to quit smoking or never start this bad habit.
Can yellow nails be prevented?
The truth is that yes. Nail discoloration can be prevented by taking care with nail hygiene . Keep in mind that nail salons and spas can transmit fungal infections and diseases to clients. A good professional will use a new or clean manicure kit on each person.
Don’t use nail polish remover more than once a week and use a less harsh nail polish remover by choosing one that doesn’t contain acetone. It is also important that we cut the uñ as frequently and we remove dirt from underneath with a special brush once or twice a week. Remember to always wear new socks and expose your feet to fresh air regularly to avoid toenail infections such as athlete’s foot.
After trying to treat yellow nails at home, your condition should start to improve. If you do not improve in less than fifteen days, it is recommended to make an appointment with a doctor. The specialist will be able to perform tests that will determine if the yellow nails are caused by fungus, yeast, bacteria or something more serious.
If new dark colored streaks appear on the nail, it is important to see a doctor immediately. We may even need to be referred to a dermatologist.
Remedies for yellow nails
Treatment of yellow nails will depend on the cause. Most likely, the nails have become discolored due to an infection, the use of tobacco or a product that we have used. These home remedies are based on the causes of the discoloration itself. However, it is important to note that these home tricks are not always effective. It is best to see a doctor if home remedies are not useful to remove yellowish spots.
Tea tree oil
If your nails are discolored due to a bacterial infection or fungus, tea tree oil is an easy treatment that you can try at home.
All you need to do is mix a drop or two of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. Then we will have to rub the mixture on the affected nail so that over the days there is an improvement in the color. Studies have shown that tea tree oil can effectively stop the growth of common strains of nail fungus.
Sodium bicarbonate
Fungi can only grow in an environment where the pH level is acidic. Soaking your feet or toes in hot water mixed with baking soda can prevent the fungus from spreading.
Baking soda creates an alkaline environment, and with use in some bathrooms, it can leave nails much lighter. However, it is also possible for the skin to dry out considerably, so it is important not to abuse this home remedy.
Oregano oil
Oil of oregano has been blessed to have antimicrobial properties. It is effective against bacteria and fungi, which makes it a great treatment if we are not sure what causes the nails to turn yellow.
It is very similar to using tea tree oil as a treatment. In this case, oregano oil should be mixed with a carrier oil before applying topically to the affected nail or nails. It is only recommended not to ingest it due to its possible side effects. Once on the nails, keep your hands away from your mouth.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is known to help teeth whiten effectively when combined with baking soda. In fact, it is common to find it as an ingredient in whitening toothpastes.
This chemical has “oxidizing” capabilities, making it a stain remover. That is, it is a great treatment for nails stained by the use of nail polish. The dye from the dark nail polish can seep into the nail polish itself, leaving them permanently stained. Hydrogen peroxide penetrates deep into the nail and lightens color, similar to the way bleach removes color from hair.
Mixing hydrogen peroxide in warm water and soaking your nails is recommended to improve the appearance of stains. Also, if we add baking soda it will make it even more effective.
Vitamin E for yellow nails
Vitamin E is known to help cells retain moisture and appear healthier. The skin, hair and nails take on a look of vitality when it has a lot of vitamin E.
This vitamin has also been clinically studied as a treatment that works for yellow nails. Yellow nail syndrome is exactly what we’re thinking of – a condition that causes nails to become discolored, wrinkled, and thick. Since vitamin E encourages healthy nail growth, it can be applied topically or orally to help nails grow quickly.
