While many people like to maintain a great manicure, no one likes to see fingernails that are tinged yellow. According to dermatologists, there are several causes that can lead to yellow nails, and they can all be combated.
Dark Nail Polish Can Give Nails a Yellow Coloration
Wearing a lot of dark nail polish could have a bad effect on the nails because they are quite porous and can absorb the pigment of the darker shades of nail polish. The iron oxides used in those polishes will become oxidized quickly and give a temporary yellow, rust-like color to the nails. Fortunately, this is not permanent and will eventually disappear once the nail polish is no longer being applied. To avoid that, people can apply a clear base coat before using heavily pigmented polishes. Going without nail polish from time to time can also have a therapeutic effect on the nails.
Fungus Can Cause Yellow Nails
One can catch fungus using public showers like those at the gym or some other facility. Not wearing shower shoes also increases the chance of getting a fungal infection at those places. In addition to being unpleasant, nail and toe fungus can cause the nails to go yellow or even green. So, what can be done? The most effective course of action in such cases is to go speak to a dermatologist who can recommend proper treatment depending on the source of the discoloration.
Vitamin Deficiency Can Give Nails the Yellow Color
It isn’t clear how chronic lung disease and poor liver function lead to yellow nails, but they do. The fact is that people who suffer from these conditions have a greater chance of experiencing yellow nails. Other common reasons include vitamin deficiencies for B-12. Vitamin deficiency can lead to nail discoloration over time.
Naturally, there are other causes for yellow nails, and those include the very rare yellow-nail syndrome. It is a hereditary condition that starts in middle age and is associated with yellow nails on the feet and hands. It also causes swelling in the legs and chronic difficulty breathing. People with such symptoms should look for medical help because treating underlying lung issues and leg swelling is of crucial importance. Because yellow nails can be caused due to major problems and minor lifestyle choices, people should be careful how they treat their nails and bodies. Local dermatologists will surely have some great advice to give to anyone who is looking.