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Yellowed nails can be the result of aging or the use of certain products on the nails, however, it can also be a sign of some health problem, such as infection, nutritional deficiency or psoriasis, for example, that must be treated.
The most common causes that can be the source of yellow nails are:
1. Deficiency in vitamins and minerals
As with other body structures, certain nutritional deficiencies can make nails more fragile, brittle and discolored. Yellowed nails can be the result of a lack of antioxidants, such as vitamin A and vitamin C.
What to do: The ideal to maintain a healthy body and avoid nutritional deficiencies, is to carry out a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, you can also take a vitamin supplement for at least 3 months.
2. Nail ringworm
Nail mycosis, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection caused by fungi, which cause changes in the color, shape and texture of the nail, leaving it thicker, deformed and yellowish. Nail fungus can be transmitted in swimming pools or public bathrooms, when the person walks barefoot, or when sharing manicure materials, for example.
What to do: the treatment of ringworm of the nail can be done with antifungal enamels or oral antifungal remedies prescribed by the dermatologist. See more about the treatment of nail ringworm.
3. Aging
As the person ages, the nails may become weaker and change their color, becoming slightly yellow. This is a natural aging process and does not mean that the person has any health problems.
What to do: Apply hydrogen peroxide on your nails is a great option to make them lighter. In addition, to make them stronger, you can also apply a strengthening enamel.
4. Use of nail polish
The frequent use of nail polish, especially in strong colors, such as red or orange, for example, can turn the nails yellow after a period of use.
What to do: To prevent the nails from turning yellow with the use of nail polish, the person can take a break, without painting their nails for some time, or use a protective nail polish before applying the color.
5. Nail psoriasis
Nail psoriasis, also known as nail psoriasis, occurs when the body's defense cells attack the nails, leaving them wavy, deformed, brittle, thick and stained.
What to do: although psoriasis has no cure, the appearance of nails can be improved with the use of nail polishes and ointments with substances containing clobetasol and vitamin D. In addition, some treatments can be performed at home, such as moisturizing the nails and maintaining a diet rich in omega 3, such as flaxseed, salmon and tuna. Learn more about treatment.
Although it is more rare, yellowish nails can also be a sign that the person suffers from diabetes or thyroid problems and, in these cases, if other symptoms characteristic of these diseases appear, it is important to go to the doctor, to make a diagnosis.