Acrylic nails are a popular way to enhance the look of your natural nails. However, they can sometimes lead to issues, such as nail discoloration. Among these problems, the appearance of a green color under the nails is quite common. This can be quite alarming and even embarrassing. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of green nails that occur beneath acrylic.
Causes of Green Nails under Acrylic
There are various reasons why your nails may develop a green hue under acrylic. Let’s take a look at the most frequent causes:
Bacterial Infection
Green discoloration of the nail bed can be caused by bacterial infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in particular, is a prevalent bacterium known to cause this problem. It thrives in moist environments and can infect the nail bed through breaks in the skin. The bacteria produce a green pigment that stains the nail bed, resulting in a green appearance.
Fungal Infection
Fungal infections can also lead to green nails under acrylic. Fungi tend to thrive in warm and moist environments, making acrylic nails an ideal breeding ground. These infections can cause the nails to become thick, discolored, and brittle. They may also contribute to the development of a greenish-black shade beneath the nail bed.
It is crucial to seek treatment from a healthcare professional at the first sign of a fungal infection. Treating fungal infections can be challenging and often requires prescription medication.
Stay tuned for the following two sections: Symptoms of Green Nails and Prevention of Green Nails!
Symptoms of Green Nails
Green nails under acrylic are usually accompanied by other symptoms. Here are the most common signs to watch out for:
Green or Yellow Color
The primary symptom of green nails under acrylic is the appearance of a green or yellow discoloration on the nail bed. The color usually starts at the base of the nail and gradually spreads toward the tip. In some cases, the discoloration may appear patchy and uneven.
Unpleasant Odor
Green nails may emit a foul odor. This unpleasant smell is caused by bacteria and fungi thriving in the moist environment created by acrylic nails. The odor can be strong and make it challenging to conceal the issue.
Swelling and Pain
In severe cases, green nails may cause swelling and pain. These symptoms typically indicate an infection that has spread beyond the nail bed. If you experience swelling and pain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Prevention of Green Nails
With proper nail care, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of green nails under acrylic. Here are some tips to help you prevent this problem:
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi beneath acrylic nails. Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands before and after applying acrylic nails. Additionally, avoid sharing nail tools and equipment with others.
Use High-Quality Products
Using high-quality acrylic nails and nail products can significantly reduce the risk of green nails. Cheap products may contain harmful chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions or bacterial and fungal infections.
Regular maintenance of acrylic nails is vital to keeping green nails at bay. Schedule regular nail fillings and touch-ups every two to three weeks. These maintenance sessions will ensure that moisture doesn’t get trapped beneath the nails, which can lead to infection.
By following these tips, you can effectively prevent green nails under acrylic, keeping your nails healthy and beautiful. In the next section, we will explore the available treatment options for green nails.
