Why Do Nails Turn Yellow?

Fungal infection is one of the common causes of nail discoloration, especially of toenails. In this condition, the nail may turn yellow or white, its thickness may increase, it may become brittle, or its edges may crumble.

Ambassador Arjan- Yellowing of nails is not always a sign of a disease. Sometimes, frequent use of dark nail polishes, contact with colored substances, or smoking causes the nail color to change; But in some cases, fungal infection, separation of the nail from the bed or some underlying diseases can also play a role in this change.

Knowing the cause of yellow nails helps to choose the right method to fix it. If the color change occurs for no apparent reason, persists, or is accompanied by thickening, pain, and deformity of the nail, it is better to be examined by a dermatologist.

1. Frequent use of dark varnishes

The pigments in the nail polish, especially dark nail polish, may penetrate the surface layer of the nail and eventually cause it to turn yellow. This color change is usually resolved gradually with the growth of the nail and the replacement of the discolored part.

Using a base coat before nail polish, spacing between nail polish applications and avoiding rough cleaning of the nail surface can help reduce this problem. Acetone-based cleaners may also dry out the nail and make it brittle, although the main cause of yellowing in many cases is the same polish pigments.

Fungal infection is one of the common causes of nail discoloration, especially toenails. In this condition, the nail may turn yellow or white, increase in thickness, become brittle, or have chipped edges.

The possibility of infection is higher in people whose feet stay in a humid environment for a long time or who have a history of fungal foot infection.

Diagnosis of nail fungus sometimes requires sampling and testing; Because not all yellow nails have a fungal infection. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include topical or oral medication. It takes time for a new nail to fully grow, and a toenail may take 12 to 18 months to fully replace.

3. Pressure, impact and separation of the nail from the bed

Sometimes the nail is separated from its underlying bed; A condition called onycholysis. In this case, the space created under the nail may appear white, yellow or cloudy.

Frequent blows, long work with hands, too much contact with water and detergents, inappropriate manicure, psoriasis and some medications can contribute to this problem.

The separated nail usually does not reattach to its bed and its recovery depends on the growth of the new part of the nail. Keeping nails short, dry and wearing gloves when working with water and chemicals can prevent further damage. Manipulation and deep cleaning of the space under the nails is also not recommended.

Improper nutrition and lack of certain nutrients can affect nail growth and quality. However, yellowing of the nails alone is not a reliable indicator of a vitamin or mineral deficiency.

Lack of iron, zinc and some other nutrients may be associated with changes such as fragility or impaired nail growth. If, in addition to nail changes, there are symptoms such as constant fatigue, paleness or hair loss, the doctor can request the necessary tests based on the history and examination.

It is not necessary to take supplements without proof of deficiency, and taking too much of some vitamins and minerals can also be harmful.

Substances in tobacco smoke can cause yellow spots on the nails and skin of the fingers. This discoloration is more common in people who smoke regularly.

Of course, yellow nails alone cannot show that a person is a smoker; Because other factors may also cause the same appearance.

If, in addition to the color change, the nails are thickened, have an unusual shape, or their appearance changes gradually, it is better to investigate other causes.

6. Contact with skin tanning products

Some sunless tanning products contain a substance called dihydroxyacetone or DHA. This substance reacts with the compounds in the surface layer of the skin and creates a tan.

If the product comes into contact with the nails and the skin around them, yellow or orange spots may occur. This color change is usually superficial and decreases with the growth of the nail or gradual removal of the color.

Using gloves when using these products and washing hands after use can reduce the possibility of staining.

Yellow nail syndrome is a rare disorder in which the nails gradually become yellow, thick, and stunted. In some patients, breathing problems, accumulation of fluid around the lungs or swelling of the legs are also seen.

This syndrome is mostly diagnosed in adults and its exact cause is not known. Most cases occur sporadically and it cannot be considered a hereditary disease in all people.

A medical evaluation is important if the yellowing and thickening of multiple nails is accompanied by very slow nail growth, swelling of the feet, or breathing problems.

Some diseases may be accompanied by changes in the appearance of nails. For example, thyroid disorders can affect nail growth and quality. Diabetes may also be indirectly related to yellow nails due to the increased possibility of certain infections, including fungal nail infection.

However, yellow nails alone are not a sign of diabetes or thyroid disease. If there are other symptoms or relevant medical history, the doctor will decide on the necessary tests.

When does yellowing of the nails need a medical examination?

If the yellowing of the nail occurs without a clear cause or does not go away, involves several nails or is accompanied by thickening, crushing, separation from the bed and pain, it is better to visit a dermatologist for examination.

Also, yellowing of the nails along with yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, especially if accompanied by dark urine or significant weakness, requires prompt medical evaluation. Swollen feet and new breathing problems should not be attributed solely to nail discoloration.

To diagnose the cause of jaundice, the doctor examines the condition of the nails, the medications taken, the history of contact with chemicals, and accompanying symptoms, and if necessary, requests a fungal test or a blood test. Avoid arbitrarily treating with antifungal drugs and taking supplements without diagnosing the cause.