Nails and Health: What Your Nail Health Says About Your Well-being
By: Shahara Lum
Our nails are not only a part of our body that we use to enhance our appearance through manicures and nail art, but they can also give us a glimpse into our overall health. The color, texture, and shape of our nails can reveal underlying health problems that we may not be aware of otherwise. Therefore, paying attention to our nails and observing any changes in their appearance can provide us with valuable insights into our health. With that being said, let’s look at what the color and texture of your nails say about your overall health.
Pale or white nails
Nails that appear pale or white might indicate an underlying health condition — liver disease might show up as pale nails, indicating liver problems needing a doctor’s check-up. “If the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this can indicate liver problems, such as hepatitis. In this image, you can see the fingers are also jaundiced, another sign of liver trouble.” [1]
Apart from anemia and liver disease, there are other possible causes of pale nails. Some of these causes include nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin B12 or iron, and conditions like Raynaud’s disease, which causes blood vessels in the fingers and toes to narrow, leading to pale or bluish nails. In some cases, pale nails may not be a cause for concern and could simply be due to aging or genetics. However, if you notice a sudden change in the color of your nails, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.
Yellow nails
Yellow nails are often associated with fungal infections. When a fungus attacks the nails, it can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling. In rare cases, yellow nails may indicate more serious health concerns, such as thyroid disorders, psoriasis, or diabetes.
However, yellow nails can also be caused by other factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions like jaundice, and the use of certain medications. In some cases, frequent use of nail polish and exposure to chemicals can also discolor the nails. Furthermore, nails can yellow as a part of the natural aging process.
You can fix this by using natural remedies like tea tree oil or vitamin E that can assist in managing infections. Taking a multivitamin may also be beneficial. However, if there’s no improvement after several weeks, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. [2]
Brittle or Ridged Nails
Brittle or ridged nails can be a sign of various health issues. For example, psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, can also impact the nails, causing them to become brittle or develop ridges. Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can also contribute to changes in nail texture.
Also, as people age, nails may naturally become more brittle and develop ridges due to decreased moisture and changes in nail growth. Frequent water exposure can weaken nails, making them more prone to brittleness and ridging — not consuming enough water can lead to dehydration, affecting nail health and causing them to become brittle and ridged.
In addition to psoriasis and thyroid disorders, other health conditions that can affect nail health include anemia, diabetes, and kidney disease. Nutritional deficiencies, such as low levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and biotin, can also contribute to brittle or ridged nails. Monitoring changes in nail health can prompt early detection of these conditions and facilitate timely intervention.
Tips for Healthy Nails
Here are some tips to help improve the health of your nails:
1. Balanced Diet: Nails are made of protein, so ensure your diet includes plenty of protein-rich foods. Vitamins and minerals like biotin, vitamin E, and fish oil can also promote nail health.
2. Hydration: Drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your nails hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle.
3. Protective Measures: Wear gloves while doing household chores or working with harsh chemicals to prevent damage to your nails.
4. Proper Nail Care: Trim nails regularly, keep them clean, dry, and moisturize the cuticles to maintain overall nail health. This prevents bacteria, fungi, and other organisms from growing under the nail.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Nail polish removers with acetone can dry out your nails. Opt for acetone-free versions.
6. Minimize Nail Polish Use: Constant use of nail polish can weaken the nail. It’s healthy to let your nails breathe by taking breaks between polish applications.
7. Don’t Bite Your Nails: Biting your nails can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut alongside your nail can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause an infection.
8. Be Gentle: Avoid using your nails as tools to pick, poke, or pry things, which can lead to breakage.
9. Observe Changes: Pay attention to changes in your nails as they can often signal health issues. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice changes in nail color, texture, or if you experience pain.
Best products for healthier nails
- Orly Nailtrition
- OPI Nail Envy Original Nail Strengthener
- Olive & June Nail Strengthener
- Sundays B.03 Nail Strengthening Base
- Tenoverten The Foundation Strengthening Base Coat
- Isdin Si-Nails Nail Serum Strengthener
- CND RescueRxx
- Dermelect’s Cosmeceuticals Nail Recovery System
- Orly Breathable Calcium Boost
- Nails.Inc Get Hard Nail Hardener
- Essie Hard to Resist Advanced Nail Strengthener
- Sally Hansen Hard as Nails
- Gitti Strengthening Nail Hardener
- Agent Nateur Holi(mane) Hair, Skin, Nails, 2 Daily Combined
Consulting a professional
If you notice significant changes in your nail health, such as persistent discoloration, unusual growth patterns, or pain, it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider. They can conduct a thorough examination, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Nails are often considered a fashion accessory, but they actually play an essential role in our overall health. Changes in nail color, texture, and shape can indicate underlying health issues, making them a valuable diagnostic tool. By taking care of our nails and being mindful of any changes, we can potentially detect health problems early on. This not only improves the appearance of our nails but also contributes to our well-being. It’s important to remember that healthy nails are not only a cosmetic concern but a reflection of our internal health.
References:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-nails-and-health
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/healthy-nails
[3] https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6820-can-your-nails-show-signs-of-an-illness
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