Nails
Nails are solid structures composed of keratin that cover the tips of the fingers and toes. They are often subject to various issues, with yellowing being a common concern. This issue can cause distress for both men and women. It is crucial to understand that yellowing nails typically result from a range of poor daily habits. Fortunately, there are several simple home remedies available to permanently address this condition.
Causes of Nail Yellowing
There are several factors that contribute to the yellowing of nails, including:
- **Fungal Infections**: These are among the most significant causes of nail discoloration, leading to brown or yellow hues. Fungal infections can also produce an unpleasant odor due to their activity between the nail and the surrounding skin. If such symptoms are observed, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate antifungal treatments.
- **Health Conditions**: Yellowing nails can often indicate underlying health issues, such as respiratory diseases, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, deficiencies in essential nutrients such as zinc and iron or poor dietary habits may contribute to the problem. Therefore, individuals experiencing yellow nails should seek necessary medical tests to identify the underlying cause.
- **Smoking**: This habit is a primary contributor to yellowing of both nails and the surrounding skin, with the optimal solution being to quit smoking.
- **Excessive Use of Nail Polish**: Frequent application of nail polish can hinder the nails from receiving adequate oxygen, resulting in the loss of their natural color. Reducing nail polish use and opting for high-quality products can help mitigate this issue.
- **Prolonged Exposure to Water and Moisturizers**: Excessive contact with these substances, as well as exposure to harsh chemicals and dry heat, can significantly impact the health of nails.
Treating Yellowing Nails
- **Lemon**: Lemon is effective in whitening yellow nails due to its natural bleaching properties. The method for using lemon is as follows:
- Squeeze a sufficient amount of fresh lemon juice into a wide bowl.
- Soak the nails in the juice for 15 minutes.
- Gently scrub the nails with a soft toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Apply a suitable moisturizer. This procedure should be repeated daily until the yellowing is completely resolved.
- **Apple Cider Vinegar**: Rich in acetic and malic acids, apple cider vinegar acts as a remedy against factors that alter nail color. Here’s how to use it:
- Mix four tablespoons of vinegar with half a liter of lukewarm water.
- Soak the nails in the solution for 30 minutes, then dry them with a soft towel.
- This treatment should be repeated three times a day for a month until the yellowing is completely eliminated.
Video on Causes of Blue Nails
Have you been surprised by the blue color of your nails and are unsure of the reason?