These include: Melanonychia is a condition that results in discoloration of the nails. Read on to find out more about what causes yellow nails and how to get rid of this condition. Consider adding a few drops of lemon juice into this paste to give the mixture even more whitening power. However, more serious situations, like nail infections, yellow nail disease, lung syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause yellow nails. First, wet your hands and apply toothpaste to a clean toothbrush. Ultra-hydrating formula that nourishes your skin barrier, available in unscented and neroli. Zinc supplements are commonly used to help treat yellowed nails. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Nail staining can occur from wearing dark-colored nail polish and from smoking cigarettes. Andrea Jordan is a beauty and lifestyle freelance writer covering topics from hair and skincare to family and home. Do this two to three times daily for several weeks. Mix four parts of water to one part peroxide, and soak for ten minutes. Use a nail brush to layer the paste on your affected nails. Nails that are stained from nail polish may need a break from nail polish. Your doctor will be able to run tests that will determine whether your yellow nails are being caused by fungus, yeast, bacteria, or something more serious. Dont attempt this method when you have an open wound or right after using a different stain removal method. Yes, smoking often leads to tobacco-stained fingers and nails. Other things can be to blame, too. 2009 - 2023 MindBodyGreen LLC. "It is important to start treatment early while the area of nail involvement is still small," says Kosinski. Remember it can take up to a year to completely remove some causes of yellow nails, so the sooner you get started the better. When it comes to nail care, most of us don't go beyond keeping groomed cuticles and handling a hangnail once in a blue moon (maybe more, if you're prone to picking). wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. A., Ribeiro, R. F., Alves, S. H., Rolim, C. M., Beck, R. C., & da Silva, C. B., (2013, April). "This can occur as a result of trauma, chemicals, certain medications and also certain inflammatory conditions like psoriasis," Maiman says. You can repeat this process once a day for one week. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Ahrari, F., Hasanzadeh N., Rajabi O., & Forouzannejad, Z. That's why nail-strengthening antioxidants, like vitamin E, are beloved in nail care. References Experts ExplainAnd Tell Us How to Stop, Why Does My Body Itch? To get rid of yellow nails, start by buffing them to sand off the top layer and expose the clean nail underneath. Jennifer Boidy is a Registered Nurse in Maryland. The lotion can help to reduce the smell of the cigarette smoke as well. Lemon juice: Soaking your nails in lemon juice will get rid of those yellow stains. When yellowing is caused by fungus, oral prescriptions such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or itraconazole (Sporanox) can be effective. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. She also recommends applying a base coat to act as a barrier between the nail and the pigment. After attempting to treat yellow nails at home, your condition should begin to improve. Another common at-home remedy for discolored nails is mixing one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, two and a half tablespoons of baking soda in a dish. Kaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand. If your nails are damaged (and, by default, yellowing significantly), talk to your doctor about other options. However, it is important to be aware that home remedies are not always effective. Nonetheless, it's still important to tend to the discoloration, no matter the hue. The bleaching agent helps restore the natural color of your nails. But it's really bad at the moment so I thought I would Google it to see if there was anything else I can do & this wonderful piece came up! Mix the solution well and soak the nails for two minutes. Drug-induced nail disorders. Tip #1: Using Baking Soda or Toothpaste. The best way to get rid of yellowing nails is to diagnose and treat the problem before it's spiraled out of control. Nail Artist. Cut a potato in half and rub it into your skin. Then, dip your nails into the solution and soak them for about 15 minutes. A good clarifying shampoo is perfect for this purpose and in many cases it will be all you need to get the yellowing removed. Directions: In a small bowl, add half a cup of apple cider vinegar to half a cup of warm water. Be sure to consult a doctor if your yellowed nails do not improve or lessen after trying these methods. Yellow nails can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from dark nail polishes to fungal treatments. These include: 6 Tetracyclines (an antibiotic used to treat acne and other bacterial infections) Quinolones (a type of antibiotic) Clofazimine (an antibiotic used to treat leprosy) Combivir (a medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV) While sometimes the cause of yellow nails can be cosmetic, it can also be caused by serious underlying health conditions. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Lemon Juice Is Not Only A refreshing Drink! Especially if you're using traditional polishes that contain formaldehyde, camphor, and toluene, as these harsher ingredients can weaken the nail plate. Here are some easy at-home treatments to get your nail game back on track. Soaking your thick yellow toenails in baking soda and water can combat fungal infections. Another way to get rid of smokers lines is to use laser skin resurfacing. You only want to remove the very top, stained layer of your nail. Research even shows vitamin E can helpsupport a healthy, fresh nail color4. Keep in mind that this method will sting if you have any small cuts on your fingers. In order to fully treat yellowed nails, the nails themselves have to be bare, with no layers of polish or varnish. Just be sure to soak in your fingers in lemon juicefor at least 10 minutes. Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. Hydrogen peroxide has some whitening properties that can remove nicotine stains from your fingernails. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Let's break down a few of the most common reasons for yellow nails: If you're a fan of deep, vampy red or nearly black navy tips, Maiman says the dye in these types of polishes can actually cause yellow discoloration. A more serious issue (perhaps an infection or other illness) could be the cause of your yellow nails. Add one teaspoon of crushed juniper berries to a bowl of warm water. Apply a gentle moisturizer to your hands and nails. In severe cases, the infection can even lead to nail loss. Let your nails soak for 10 minutes, then remove and rinse! You can use Bael Wellness Tea Tree Oil to prevent yellowing of your nails. Other metal pipes simply have you place the cigarette at one end of the pipe while you hold the metal tube and inhale from the free end. Soak your nails for 10 to 15 minutes each day until you are happy with the results. Other causes of yellow nails include; fungal infection, allergic reaction, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, thyroid disorder, liver disease, smoking . Keep reading to see what they had to say about getting rid of yellow nails. If you have a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, consult with a doctor before trying any of these remedies. If your nails have been damaged by dyes or harsh products, new nail growth should be a healthy, clear color. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/onycholysis, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534878/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279547/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16918641/. Fungal infection. However, for tougher stains, you may need to use toothpaste. For more tips, including how to prevent your fingers from getting stained by nicotine, read on! 2. A study has shown that tea tree oil can effectively stop common strains of nail fungus from growing. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. The best way to get rid of yellowing nails is to diagnose and treat the problem before it's spiraled out of control. Let them dissolve completely. Mix baking soda and warm water to form a paste (or just use toothpaste) and scrub your toenails gently with a toothbrush for about 5 minutes to help lighten or completely remove the stain. Read our. Healthy nail growth will gradually replace the yellowed appearance of your nails. Yellow nails are a bona fide beauty concern. Yes, one way to free your fingers from yellow stain from nicotine is by using a dilute solution of water and bleach. Then, pour 3-4 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide into cup of water, mix them well. Casey Gallagher, MD, is board-certified in dermatology. Avoid these remedies if you have open wounds. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Oregano Oil 8. In the past I tried a pumice stone, which worked within seconds, and also the nail file/emery board, which works, too, just not as fast. Smoking causes a wide range of negative health effects, but it also has some obvious physical effects, such as yellow nicotine stains on your nails and fingers. This article received 18 testimonials and 94% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 142,540 times. When they become discolored, it usually means that youve picked up an infection or nail fungus. Consult a doctor or dermatologist for more serious skin conditions. 2013;3(11):e003304. Splichal says her typical regimen for patients involves "both topical and oral as a combination," but every patient is different and could require different interventions. Its effective against bacteria and fungi, which makes it a great treatment if youre not sure whats causing your nails to become yellow. If you develop new darkly colored streaks in the nail, you should see your doctor right away. You just have to take a drop or two along with a carrier oil and use a cotton swab to apply it to your nails. No More Yellow Toenails: Your Guide to Healthy Nails and Feet, Cracked Skin Around Nails: At-Home Remedies & Solutions. We rub them and let them act for five minutes every day. Expert Interview. Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve. You can also add a few drops of water to a single aspirin tablet to form a paste and use the paste to scrub your nails. Yellow nails are a condition that a healthcare provider should check out. And if the medication causes your yellow nails, you should talk with a healthcare provider about alternatives that don't have that side effect. One of the most common causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. You can soak your nails in this solution a couple times a month, but be sure you soak then when your nails are bare, and free from nail polish. Then, use a toothbrush to scrub the stains on your hands until they're all gone. "I recommend patients use nontoxic nail polishes, such as Dr.'s Remedy, and to take nail polish 'holidays.'" Scrub your nails using hydrogen peroxide mixed with baking soda for 2-3 minutes to quickly lighten them. In fact, it might be as simple as spacing out your manicure appointmentsbut more on that later. He is a clinical professor at the University of Colorado in Denver, and co-founder and practicing dermatologist at the Boulder Valley Center for Dermatology in Colorado. The lemon juice can lighten your nails much in the same way it can lighten hair when it is sprayed on and exposed to the sun. Macura, A. It's available by prescription only, though, so seeing a medical professional is necessary. Toothpaste Toothpaste can help to eliminate the yellow stains on your nails and whiten them gradually. Nail fungus: Prevention, Mayo Clinic Staff. I've always known about the toothpaste theory & lemon juice. Read on to see if its right for you. Biotin Supplements - Biotin is a B-complex vitamin, also known as vitamin B7, coenzyme R and vitamin H. It promotes healthy cell growth and aids . By Kathi Valeii As a result, they become discolored, brittle, and weak. You could blend some tepid water with apple juice vinegar. If your nails are yellow from melanonychia, treatment may involve stopping medication or treating the underlying disease or trauma. Baking soda can also be used to bleach yellow nails and help restore their natural color. Yellow nails are common. Seek medical attention if any of these methods cause significant skin irritation, pain, discomfort, or make your condition worse in anyway. "If it is a fungus, there are many options for treatment, including laser therapy, topical medication, and pills," says Kosinski. Soak your nails for 20 minutes before drying them with a towel or air-drying. If there's no medical condition causing your yellowed nails, you may simply have to wait for your nails to grow out before they return to their normal color. Scrub your nails with whitening toothpaste to immediately get rid of colorful stains from wearing colored nail polish. Mix a drop or two of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as olive oil,. This information can often direct the next steps, if any. % of people told us that this article helped them. That's why nail-strengthening antioxidants, like vitamin E, are beloved in nail care. In rare situations, yellow nails can indicate the presence of skin cancer. (2014). Yellow isn't a frightening color until the hue invades your toenails. Moisten a cotton ball with nail polish remover and rub it over the yellow stains until they are no longer visible 2. In addition, smoking can sometimes stain nails yellow. (2007). For more tips, including how to prevent your fingers from getting stained by nicotine, read on! Your skin, hair, and nails all take on an appearance of vitality when you have plenty of vitamin E. Vitamin E has also been clinically studied as a successful treatment for yellow nail syndrome. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda, a half-teaspoon of olive oil and one teaspoon of lemon juice into a thick paste. I use a nail file every day; this does help keep it at bay but sometimes, "I'm a pack-a-day smoker, and I was beginning to get nicotine stains on my pointer and middle fingers. Pour 3-4 tablespoons (15 ml per tablespoon) of 3% hydrogen peroxide into half a cup (118.5 ml) of water and stir well. You can also rub the cut side of a lemon on your nails, then let it sit for 10 minutes to lighten them. Of course, if nail discoloration is caused by aging, it won't be possible to get rid of the yellow nails. If your nails are discolored because of a bacterial infection or fungus, tea tree oil is any easy treatment you can try. In fact, once you've landed on the root cause, you can usually tend to the discoloration at home or with the help of a professional. Fungal infections may require antifungals. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. But there are things you can try yourself to help repair and, Learn all about dark circles under your eyes. People Are Using Listerine as a Foot SoakSo Does It Work? Orange Peel 9. Yellow nails can range from slightly discolored to a distinctly dark yellowish tint. In some individuals, nail polish or nail polish remover can also chemically damage the nail plate.". "I have had yellow finger stains for years. "When your nails become weaker and thinner, you might experience discoloration with your nails, where they turn slightly yellow," adds Amy Lin, the founder ofsundaysa nail care brand focused on wellness. (2017, March 1). Only buff each nail for about 10 seconds. Some causes are harmless, like staining from dark-colored nail polish. If your yellow nails are caused by a yeast or bacteria, try some of the treatments above to help clear it up. If you dont already have a doctor, our Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area. This article broke down different solutions that were helpful.". Fungal nail infections. Toenail Discoloration, Fungus & Treatments, Causes of Toenail Pain and Treatment Options, How Psoriatic Arthritis Affects the Hands, 12 nail changes a dermatologist should examine, Melanonychia: Etiology, diagnosis, and treatment, Tobacco-stained fingers: a clue for smoking-related disease or harmful alcohol use? You should use this solution which is just 3% hydrogen peroxide. With the use of a toothbrush, gently brush the toothpaste and baking soda mixture over your nails. "In fact, vitamin B12 more commonly causes blue nails, not yellow." That's because DHA penetrates the naturally occurring dead skin cells on your epidermis and darkens them, mimicking a tanif it finds its way to the skin on your fingertips, it might give your nails a sunless tan, too. Baking soda creates an alkaline environment and, over the course of a few soaks, may leave your nails much clearer. Smoking. ", toothpaste and the lemon juice when done consecutively did the trick. Certain medications may also cause nails to turn yellow. How to Cure Toenail Fungus: Can Vinegar Help? Yellow nails may look alarming, but don't fretthey can happen for a variety of reasons, and in most cases, the fix isn't as challenging as you'd think. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. You may need to be referred to a dermatologist. One study noted an 84% frequency of tobacco-related diseases among people with tobacco-stained fingers. Although, those stains are more than a mere cosmetic concern: "This can also cause the nail plates to become brittle," says Maiman. "Certain nail polishes contain triphenyl phosphate, toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate," says Splichal, who adds that those are all ingredients that "can weaken and leech the nutrients from the nails." Published 2013 Nov 7. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003304. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment. Antifungal activity of nanocapsule suspensions containing tea tree oil on the growth of Trichophyton rubrum [Abstract]. Tobacco-stained fingers may be more than a cosmetic issue. 2020;11(1):1-11. doi:10.4103/idoj.IDOJ_167_19. Scrub your toenails with baking soda or toothpaste. You may want to wear a mask when doing this method. Rinse with lukewarm water and apply some moisturizer. You can mix it with olive oil and water to achieve a moisturizing effect as well. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may. She currently resides in New Jersey with her husband and cat, Silas. Our online classes and training programs allow you to learn from experts from anywhere in the world. This cause of yellow nails can easily be prevented by using a clear base coat before applying nail polishes of darker shades. Soak a cotton ball into the mixture and apply it to your nails on hands and feet Rinse it off after 5 minutes with warm water Apply this remedy twice a day to remove yellow nails. "Next gently scrub the surface of the nails with a soft toothbrush and rinse with water," Maiman says. Treatment is geared toward the underlying cause. You can repeat this process three times a day for up to a month. Along with the causes of dark. The Best 8 Home Remedies for Cysts: Do They Work? Dip your nails into hydrogen peroxide. 12+ Tips for Easy Care & Prevention for Dry, Peeling Cuticle Skin, How to Treat a Black Toenail from Injury, Fungus, & More, How to Care for a Broken Toenail (Plus When to See a Doctor), Guide to Removing, Cleaning, and Caring for Dead Toenails. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply to the yellowing toenails. You can also add two tablespoons (30 ml) of dried orange peel powder to water to create a paste. I would smoke, and try to cover the stain on my finger with the cigarette butt. How long does it take yellowed nails to go back to their natural color? A base coat also serves as an anchor for the colored polish to hold onto. Once you pinpoint the cause of your yellow hue, you can create an easy solution to fix it at home or visit a doctor who can get to the root of the issue. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Chaftar, N., Girardot, M., Labanowski, J., Ghrairi, T., Hani, K., Frre, J., & Imbert, C. (2015, November 14). You need to allow the juice to set for bit loner, about 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing. However, its easy to file your nails incorrectly, which can lead to jagged. The condition is benign2, which means no cause for concern, but you might still want to get it checked out by a doctor to make sure there are no other underlying issues. Vitamin or mineral deficiencies can cause nails to appear yellow, and introducing a multivitamin supplement to your regiment may stop the problem. Mix well and place your fingertips in the bowl. Are There Tests to Diagnose Yellow Nails? National Organization for Rare Disorders. Many things can cause yellow nails, including staining from substances like nail polish or a serious underlying health condition. This article explains the symptoms, causes, and treatment of yellow nails. Treatment for yellow nails depends on the cause. Corn Meal 11. A condition called yellow nail syndrome (YNS) is indicated by continually yellow nails and respiratory or lymphatic problems. In addition, fungal nail infections are notoriously stubborn to treat, so the sooner you receive a diagnosis and treatment plan, the more likely it will be that your infection will clear promptly. Why Do We Pick at Our Nails? Her work also appears in BuzzFeed, StyleCaster, and Yahoo. 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