What causes nails to go green?
Understanding Green Nails: Causes and Prevention
At Fred & Ginger Hair and Beauty, we’re committed to ensuring our clients feel beautiful and confident from head to toe. Our expert beauty therapist, Kirsten, often gets asked about various beauty concerns, one of the most common being the mysterious green discoloration that sometimes appears underneath nails. If you’ve noticed a greenish hue beneath your nails, read on to understand why this happens and how you can prevent it.
What Causes Nails to Turn Green?
The green colour under your nails is often due to a bacterial infection known as “green nail syndrome” or chloronychia. This condition is typically caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Here are some common reasons why this bacterium might find its way under your nails:
Trapped Moisture
When moisture gets trapped under artificial nails, gel, or acrylics, it creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
Damaged Nail Beds
Any injury or separation between the nail and the nail bed can allow bacteria to enter and thrive.
Improper Nail Care
Not cleaning your nails properly or using unsanitized nail tools can introduce bacteria.
How to Prevent Green Nail Syndrome
Preventing green nails is largely about maintaining good nail hygiene and care practices. Here are some tips from Kirsten, our beauty therapist:
Keep Nails Dry and Clean
Ensure your nails and the surrounding areas are thoroughly dried after washing your hands or taking a shower. Moist environments can promote bacterial growth.
Sanitize Nail Tools
Always use sanitized tools for manicures and pedicures. At Fred & Ginger Hair and Beauty, we prioritize hygiene by sterilizing all our equipment after each use.
Avoid Aggressive Nail Treatments
Be gentle with your nails to avoid creating spaces between the nail and nail bed. Avoid aggressive filing or pushing back cuticles too harshly.
Limit Exposure to Water
Wear gloves when doing household chores that involve water, such as washing dishes, to minimize prolonged exposure to moisture.
Choose a Reputable Salon
Ensure your nail treatments are performed by qualified professionals. Kirsten and our team at Fred & Ginger Hair and Beauty adhere to the highest standards of nail care to prevent any infections.
What to Do if You Have Green Nails
If you notice a greenish discoloration under your nail, it’s important to take action:
Remove Artificial Nails
If you have acrylics or gels, remove them to allow the nail to breathe and the infection to clear up.
Consult a Professional
Visit a healthcare provider or a qualified beauty therapist like Kirsten for advice. In some cases, you might need an antibacterial treatment.
Maintain Good Nail Hygiene
Clean the affected area gently and keep it dry to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Conclusion
At Fred & Ginger Hair and Beauty, we aim to provide our clients with the best beauty and wellness advice. Understanding why your nails might turn green and knowing how to prevent it ensures that your nails remain healthy and beautiful. Our expert beauty therapist, Kirsten, is always here to help you with personalized advice and treatments tailored to your needs. Visit us at our salon in Hertford to experience top-notch nail care and a range of other beauty services.
Stay beautiful, stay confident!
Fred & Ginger Hair and Beauty
Where beauty meets excellence
