You hate looking your toenails yellow and ugly right? It can be annoying and it’s certainly not something you want to live with forever. Why do your toenails look thick and yellowish? This is because you have an infection called onychomycosis which is usually caused by a fungus and yeast. And once it gets a start it can spread rather rapidly this is one of the most common causes of yellow toenails.
Yellow Toenails: Causes & Treatments
If you already have yellow nails, here in this article, we will look at how to get rid of those yellow toenails, the most common causes of yellow toenails, what causes them, and what other symptoms may be associated with it. Read on.
What are the Causes of Yellow Toenails?
There is a set of different causes for this. Here’s a list of some common causes of yellow, discolored fingernails and toenails;
Aging
Aging can be one of the most common causes of yellow toenails. So, when people grow older, the color, thickness, and shape of their nails change, and these changes are normal because of aging and it doesn’t require any treatment.
Manicure & Pedicure Habits
Sometimes, your yellow toenails are caused by nail polish or pedicure habits. To get rid of these, all you have to do is stop using such kinds of habits for a while to see the yellow go away.
Disease Conditions
Disease conditions can also cause yellow toenails such as psoriasis, jaundice, paronychia, lymphedema, bronchiectasis, and tuberculosis.
Walking Barefoot In Public
Try to avoid walking barefoot when at a public swimming pool or in a public shower because this can also cause Yellow Toenails.
Injury To The Nail
Injury can be either acute or blunt trauma which can cause fungal infection, and this infection can occur again and again when you wear tight fitted shoes.
Medical Conditions
Some of the common medical conditions that cause to grow thick, slow, curved nails with a yellowish, such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease.
Tight Fit Footwear
Tight or ill-fitting shoes can put pressure on the foot and can cause damage to the toenails. If you don’t let your feet breathe or place repetitive pressure on the toes can cause yellow, discolored fingernails and toenails. So, make sure your footwear has a thumbs width distance between the end of the longest toe and the front of the shoe.
Vitamin or Nutritional Deficiencies
Vitamin or nutritional deficiencies can cause nails to appear yellow, the most common reason for this are Biotin and Vitamin E.
Smoking
Smoking can cause some serious yellowing of your hands and nails and it can even cause a pretty unpleasant odor.
Treatment For Yellow Toenails
Don’t ignore yellow toenails the treatment should be started as promptly as possible. Here are some easy at-home treatments to get rid of your Yellow Toenails. Let’s find out!
Biotin Supplements
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin which is also known as vitamin B7 that promotes healthy cell growth. Also, it helps to aid the metabolism of protein-building amino acids that is essential for nail growth. And the foods that are rich in Biotin may help strengthen your brittle fingernails.
Medicated Nail Cream
Medicated nail creams are potent and help to eliminate the problem fast, but make sure to have a prescription. This is because most nails won’t require this kind of treatment if caught early.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is another effective treatment that works best for fungal infections. It is a natural source, and it is generally safe to use the oil. While using this oil, make sure to dilute the oil in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil. It has antiseptic, antibiotic, and antifungal properties that help to fight against ailments such as burns, skin infections, and skin disorders such as eczema.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can kill the fungus that grows on toenails as it goes deep into the nail and lightens the coloring. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on the nails and this may improve the appearance of stains. All you have to do is take ⅛ cup of hydrogen peroxide, four cups of cool water, and mix it well. Then soak your feet for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse your feet with warm water and pat dry.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another effective home remedy to treat toenail fungus. This ingredient includes an antifungal property and the acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection. Take two parts vinegar to one part warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily.
Conclusion
Are you worried about getting yellow toenails or want to get rid of your yellow toenails? Then, make sure to follow the tips that help to maintain healthy nails and prevent it. And if you’re not sure if you have a fungus infection then make sure to have a trustworthy professional treatment. So don’t delay to find the cause of your yellow toenails since the fungus can spread rather rapidly.