Sometimes our bodies react to the things we put in (or on) them, and things can get ugly. This is definitely the case when it comes to our nails. Too much polish equals discolored fingernails if you don’t give them time to breath occasionally. Plus, too much bacteria can also result in some, well, pretty disturbing colored nails.
What causes nails to turn yellow –
There are a few good reasons why your nails could be yellow — here’s what may be causing the color shift:
Colored Nail Polish: Wearing nail polish for a prolonged period of time, especially dark colors, can cause nail discoloration. This is nothing to worry about; it’s simply the dye from your polish seeping into your nail texture. It is not dangerous and can be prevented by simply applying a clear base coat beforehand.
Tar And Nicotine: If you’re a smoker, having yellow nails is unavoidable. The burning tar discolors your fingernails, and usually affects the pinky or middle finger most. The yellowing of your nails due to smoking probably doesn’t do that much damage to them. Well — at least not as much as to your lungs!
Fungal Infection: If the previous two reasons don’t apply to you, then you have may a fungal infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, this common condition begins with white or yellow spots appearing under the nail, and it may require a dermatologist’s help to treat.
Since this is nothing to be ashamed of and can actually be a pretty quick fix, we’ve rounded up some of the most quick, easy, and convenient ways to get rid of yellow nails! Check them out below –
1. Stop using so much dark nail polish.
Dark colour nail polish
Of course we all love a little black or dark navy polish from time to time, but constantly using dark colors like this may cause your nails to become discolored. Try to switch your color choices from something dark to something nice and light (or no polish at all, if you can stand it) so you can give your nails time to recuperate.
2. Always, always, always use a base coat.
Always use base coat
It sounds crazy but base coats actually were made for a reason! Of course, it’s the perfect way for nail companies to add on one more product to your order, but we actually believe that this step is pretty necessary. By using a base coat, you’re adding in a protective layer between your nails and the polish. This will help to prevent staining and can actually help keep your nails healthier.
3. Use a buffing board to remove the exposed top layer that may be stained.
Buffing board
If you’ve just recently realised that your nails are starting to get discolored, try as a first step to remove some of the top layer of the nail with a buffing board. Make sure not to scrub away too much, as you want your nails to stay as strong as possible. However, this may help to fade the discoloration when it’s not too severe.
4. Rub your nails in lemon juice or a whole lemon.
Lemon juice
Like anything else that’s super acidic, you don’t want to soak your nails or skin in it too long, but lemon juice is a great option to rub onto your nails to help remove any yellowing. You have a couple option: you can either use an actual lemon, slice it in half, and work each nail into it for 30 to 60 seconds each, or you can go ahead and use lemon juice with a cotton ball and rub each nail thoroughly. Afterwards, let your nails sit for 10 to 30 minutes before rinsing them in water.
5. Apply tea tree oil to your nails.
Tea tree oil
If it’s not the polish that’s doing the damage, you may have a nail fungus (ew, we know, but it happens) that is causing the discoloration. To try to solve the problem with a home remedy, you can put a drop of tea tree oil onto your nail beds, leave it to settle for a couple minutes, and then rinse with warm water. To see the best results, you’ll want to do this twice daily for a few months until you notice improvement.
6. Use fruit!
Oranges
If you’re the type of person that believes food can fix anything, you’ll love this one. Aside from lemons, you can also use fruits like oranges or juniper berries to whiten your nails. If you’ll be eating an orange every day, you can save your orange peel and rub your nails with it two to three times daily (make sure it’s fresh each day). Within a few weeks, you’ll start to see results. Like we said, you can also use juniper berries. Add one teaspoon of these berries all crushed up into a bowl of warm water. Repeat this once daily before you head to bed. Bonus, you’ll smell great!
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar restores nails’ pH balance, which is important in the wake of a fungal infection.The acetic and malic acids present in apple cider vinegar are responsible for reducing discolouration or yellowness of nails. Apple cider vinegar is also antifungal and hence helps keep infections at bay. If the discolouration is due to fungal infection, then apple cider is your best remedy. If you have observed white spots on nails with deep ridges, it may due to lack of calcium and digestive issues. Drinking apple cider vinegar reduces digestion problems, thereby reducing the white spots on nails too.
Yellow nails can be quite unsightly and may in some cases embarrass you. Now use these seven tips to get rid of yellow nails.