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Our nails are not only an aesthetic feature, but also an indicator of our inner health. A quick glance at them can give us clues about our well-being, from simple deficiencies to deeper-seated illnesses. Nail discoloration is also a much-discussed topic.

Whether it's an accidental bump that leaves a bruise or a more serious nail change that indicates an underlying condition , our nails often tell us more about our health than we realize.

In this guide, we'll take you through the complex world of nail health, from the signs of healthy nails to the most common discolorations and their causes. Together, we'll explore what your nails are telling you and how you can keep them in top shape.

Healthy nails

Overview of signs of healthy fingernails

A look at your fingernails can reveal a lot about your well-being. Healthy nails are characterized by

a uniform, pink color
with a clearly visible white nail moon .

The nail bed should be firm and free of discoloration , while the cuticle should be supple and free of cracks or inflammation .

In addition, the structure of the nails should be smooth and without grooves or dents . Smooth, groove-free fingernails usually indicate a sufficient supply of necessary nutrients.

Also make sure that your nails themselves have a natural strength without being brittle . Nails that are strong and not brittle can also help prevent toenail and fingernail diseases.

Nail discoloration: The most common nail diseases & causes

Nail discoloration can be a warning sign of various nail changes and diseases . In this section, we will look at the most common causes of discolored nails to help you identify potential problems early and treat them effectively.

A few sentences in advance: Nail changes can be caused by a variety of factors , including fungal infections , which can affect both fingernails and toenails.

Various deficiencies , which can manifest themselves in the form of grooves or white spots on the nails , are not uncommon.

More serious conditions such as heart or liver disease can also cause nail discoloration. It is important to pay attention to such signs and, if necessary, to see a specialist to treat the underlying cause and to detect and treat potential fingernail diseases or toenail diseases early.

Serious diseases associated with nail discoloration

Whitening of the fingernails: How does leukonychia occur?

Leukonychia , a common nail disorder , is characterized by white spots or streaks on the nails . These discolorations can take different forms and have different causes.

Let’s take a look at the different forms of leukonychia :

Cloud- to crescent-shaped spots: This type of leukonychia appears as cloud- to crescent-shaped spots on the nails. They can be a sign of damage to the nail matrix or a reaction to certain medications. It is also possible that these spots indicate a disorder in calcium metabolism.
Single white spots or dots (leukonychia punctata): This form of leukonychia occurs when small, white spots or dots appear on the nails. These spots are often the result of microtrauma, or minor injuries to the nail bed. It is not uncommon for these spots to appear for no apparent reason. However, they are usually harmless.
White streaks (Leukonychia striata) : This type of nail discoloration appears as white streaks across the nails. It can be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as kidney disease or a thyroid disorder, which can cause white spots on the nails.

Frosted nails: What is behind the nail discoloration?

Frosted nails , also known as Terry nails , are a special form of nail discoloration in which the nails take on a milky, cloudy appearance .

This type of nail discoloration should be taken seriously because it could be a sign of a serious underlying condition.

It is important not to panic, but the cause should still be investigated medically as soon as possible . Let's look at the possible causes of this rare nail change:

Liver diseases
Kidney failure
Heart failure
Diabetes mellitus

Black fingernails: Possible reasons for the dark discoloration

Black or brown fingernails can seem worrying at first glance. They are often associated with serious underlying diseases or injuries .

If there is no obvious injury, it is advisable to consult a specialist as soon as possible to determine the exact cause.

Here are some possible reasons for black or brown fingernails:

Bruises or bleeding under the nail
Fungal infections
Melanoma (a type of skin cancer)
Side effects of medication

Dark deposits & pathological changes

Dark spots on the nails can be an indicator of health problems . They can be caused by various factors , such as exposure to certain chemicals or more serious conditions such as melanoma.

It is crucial to recognize such signs early, have them assessed by a specialist and, if necessary, take timely action.

Discoloration due to dark substances

Nails can become discolored through contact with dark substances . This can happen due to various influences, such as handling certain chemicals or applying intensely colored nail polish .

Fortunately, such discolorations are usually superficial and can be reduced or removed with proper care and treatment.

How the accumulation of melanin can lead to black nails

An increased buildup of melanin in the nails can lead to noticeable darkening. While in some cases this may be a natural process, in other situations it may be an indication of more serious diseases, such as the previously mentioned melanoma.

If you notice any noticeable changes, you should definitely seek medical advice.

How does a bruise form under the nail?

A bruise under the nail often has a bluish to black color and is usually caused by injuries or impacts .

Such discoloration can be painful and often takes a while to fade completely. Possible reasons for a bruise under the nail are:

Direct trauma or injury to the nail
Ingrown nail
Excessive pressure on the toenails, for example from shoes that are too tight

Causes of yellow fingernails

Yellow nails can be both an aesthetic and health concern. While some causes are harmless and easily treated , others can indicate more serious health problems.

Here are some of the most common reasons why fingernails turn yellow :

Nail fungus: One of the most common causes of yellow nails. The fungus can spread under the nail and cause discoloration.
Smoking: Nicotine can cause yellowish fingernails.
Age: As we age, nails may take on a yellowish hue.
Medications: Some medications can cause yellow nails as a side effect.
Diseases: Certain diseases, such as lymphedema, lung disease or diabetes, can lead to yellow nails.

Recognizing and understanding half-and-half nails

Half-and-half nails , also known as Lindsay nails , show a characteristic discoloration in which part of the nail is white and the other part is red or brown . This can indicate several health problems .

Here are some of the possible causes :

Kidney failure: One of the most common causes of half and half nails, which should definitely be treated by a doctor.
Malnutrition: A deficiency of certain nutrients can also lead to this type of nail discoloration.
Chemotherapy: Some patients report half-and-half nails during or after chemotherapy.

Why do nails turn green?

Green fingernails can be caused by various factors. The most common cause of green discoloration on the nails is a bacterial infection , particularly by the bacterial strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa .

Here are some reasons why fingernails may turn green :

Bacterial infection: A green toenail or an overall green spot on a nail is often caused by the Pseudomonas bacteria.
Injuries: An injury can make the nail vulnerable to infection, causing the nail to turn green.
Poor nail care: Inadequate nail care can increase the risk of infection and cause your fingernails to turn green.
Artificial nails: If a nail has turned green under the gel, it is referred to as “greenies”. These occur when an air gap has formed between the nail bed and the gel.

Bacteria and germs can easily settle and multiply in these spaces, also known as liftings. If greenies occur, the gel must be removed quickly so that the green nail can recover under the artificial nails - no new modeling should be carried out until the nail has healed.

This means red & purple discoloration

Red edges under the fingernails and purple discoloration of the nails can indicate a variety of health problems . Sometimes the nail moon (the lunula) is also discolored red.

From minor injuries to serious illnesses, there are many possible causes for this purple discoloration of the nails.

Here are some of the most common reasons :

Injuries: A bump or bruise may cause red or purple discoloration.
Heart disease: Red or purple nails can be a sign of heart problems.
Lupus: An autoimmune disease that can cause red or purple nails.
Raynaud's disease: A condition that restricts blood flow to the fingers and toes and can cause red or purple discoloration.

Treating nail discoloration: What really helps?

Treatment for nail discoloration can vary depending on the cause . In many cases , mild discoloration can be corrected with simple home remedies and improved nail care .

For fungal infections, antifungal creams or varnishes can help, while bacterial infections often require antibiotic treatment.

Patience is required for discoloration caused by injury , as nails need time to heal and grow back . In any case, it is advisable to consult a specialist if you are unsure how to treat nail discoloration.

If nail discoloration occurs that could indicate a serious medical condition, medical advice should be sought to clarify the cause and treat it.

The Nail Growth Serum from Health Routine is not just another product in your nail care routine; it is your ideal helper on the way to strong and well-groomed nails.

With a carefully selected blend of natural ingredients, this serum not only promotes the growth of your fingernails and toenails, but also gives them a healthy shine and keeps them supple.

The serum combines the power of various plant oils that together can help nourish and strengthen nails .

These oils provide deep care and protect the nails from external influences. Particularly worth mentioning is the composition of:

➽ Citrus oil

This oil makes it possible to penetrate the nail structure at a cellular level, allowing the nourishing ingredients of the serum to reach deep into the nail root and develop their full power.

➽ Almond oil

A true moisturizer that not only protects against UV damage but also provides essential nutrients to promote nail strength.

➽ Jojoba oil

As one of the most effective care oils, jojoba oil strengthens the nails, makes them more resilient and at the same time nourishes the surrounding cuticles.

But that’s not all:

Coconut oil , known for its moisturizing properties, can strengthen the skin's natural protective layer and thus contribute to a healthy nail bed.
Olive oil , rich in antioxidant and nourishing properties, promotes the elasticity and softness of the cuticles, which in turn ensures a well-groomed appearance.

This powerful mixture is complemented by tocopherol (vitamin E) and biotin (vitamin B7) . Both vitamins are essential for the appearance of nails. They help to support the nail structure and give the nails a natural shine.

For optimal results, it is also important to maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support nail growth from the inside out.

The application is extremely simple: apply the serum directly to the nail 2 to 3 times a day and massage it in, a task that is made easier by the practical brush applicator.

Before applying the serum , it is important to carefully prepare your nails :

Remove cracked and splintered nails and carefully file the corners with a microfine glass file .
After washing your hands and degreasing your nails, you can apply the serum and leave it on for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Expert tip: If you are one of those people who bite their nails, it could affect nail growth and damage the nail bed, so it is advisable to break this habit to reap the full benefits of the serum.

5 tips for everyday nail discoloration

The following tips can help to make nails shine again and reduce unwanted discoloration or, in the best case, get rid of it completely.

Baking soda: Dissolve a packet of baking soda in warm water and soak your nails in it for five minutes to naturally remove stains. Add a few drops of olive oil to avoid drying out your nails.

Apple cider vinegar: Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with some lukewarm water and soak your nails in it for about five minutes to remove discoloration quickly and without harmful chemicals. After soaking, you can easily smooth the nail surface with a polishing file.

Lemon juice: Use the juice of half a lemon mixed with half a liter of water to naturally whiten nails. Massage the mixture into the nail surface or rub half a lemon directly over the fingernails. After the treatment, you should wash your hands and moisturize them with a moisturizing cream.

Braces cleaner: Use braces cleaning tabs that can be used with a little baking soda to make a whitening hand or foot bath. Dissolve a cleaning tab and a packet of baking soda in water and soak your nails in it. While the bath is in, you can lightly clean the nail surface with an old toothbrush. You can also finish off with a polishing file.

Special nail polishes: Use special nail polishes with lemon extract and a slightly purple color that make the nail appear optically brighter, combat yellow nails and can eliminate discoloration in the long term.

Note that many of these home remedies can cause irritation or allergic reactions on sensitive skin , so it is advisable to do a small skin test before using them for the first time and not to use the products excessively or too frequently.

If discoloration or reactions persist, you should consult a dermatologist or nail specialist. It is always better to be safe than sorry and not put the health of your nails at risk.

When should you see a doctor? If you notice that the nail discoloration does not go away despite your efforts, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or swelling, you should see a doctor.

If there are signs of infection or if the discoloration spreads, it is advisable to seek medical advice to rule out possible serious illnesses or to treat them early.

Conclusion

Our nails are not just an aesthetic accessory, they also provide information about our general health. From simple discoloration to more serious signs of illness, they can tell us a lot about our well-being.

It is important to take care of them, to care for them properly and if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.

With the right tools and products combined with sound knowledge and a pinch of mindfulness, we can ensure that our nails not only look their best but also promote nail health.

Each of us deserves to feel completely comfortable from head to toe, including our fingertips.

FAQ

How can I effectively prevent nail fungus?

Nail fungus can be prevented by several measures, including good foot hygiene, wearing breathable shoes and avoiding walking barefoot in public showers or changing rooms.

My nails are discolored due to nail fungus – what can I do about it?

For supporting cosmetic care for nail fungus and nail discoloration, you can use the Nail Care Pen from Health Routine . This contains lemon juice, tea tree oil and vitamin E , which can regulate the nail microflora, cosmetically relieve discoloration and promote nail growth.

The practical pen is cruelty-free, 100% vegan and can help make your nails look radiant and well-groomed again.

Can dietary changes help prevent nail discoloration?

Yes, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can promote nail health and thus reduce the risk of nail discoloration. Certain nutrients such as biotin or zinc are considered particularly beneficial.

How often should I care for my nails to avoid discoloration?

Regular nail care, ideally weekly, can help prevent discoloration and promote the overall health of your nails. This includes gently removing any nail polish residue.

Can the Nail Growth Serum also be used on discolored toenails?

Yes, Nail Growth Serum can be used on both fingernails and toenails to promote nail growth and improve nail quality. It is specially formulated to help both nail types.

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