The discoloration can be brought on by using low-quality nail polishes, wearing dark or vivid nail paint for an extended period, or both. A fungal infection can also be the reason for orange nails. Many people suffer from onychomycosis, sometimes known as nail fungus.
Why are my nails orange? 10 Possible Reasons
A person’s health and lifestyle choices may hint at their nail color. Nail discolorations can range from harmless to dangerous, but orange nails stand out as a cause for concern.
The following is a comprehensive list of reasons for my orange nails:
1. Nail Polish and Pigments
The oils in your nails can react with some nail paint colors, especially those with solid pigments like reds and yellows. This reaction might cause the nail surface to become orange over time. This discoloration may be caused, in part, by the regular use of such nail polishes, especially if they are of poor quality or include chemicals that might be dangerous.
2. Fungal Infection (Onychomycosis)
Nail fungus is an ongoing condition that can discolor the nails, typically to an orange hue. Fungi cause infected nails, the plural of “fungus,” which are tiny, microscopic creatures. It is common for people to get fungal infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm through direct skin contact with someone who already has the condition.
Nail fungus may cause the nail to thicken, become brittle, and change color from orange to yellow.
3. Psoriasis
According to the research, an issue with the immune system is the root cause of psoriasis, making it an autoimmune illness. In the dermis, the innermost layer of skin, your body generates new skin cells.
At that point, psoriasis can also affect the nails. Nails may thicken, become pitted, and turn an orange hue as a result. The orange color results from an overgrowth of cells under the nail plate.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Your nail health and beauty may suffer from nutrient deficiencies, especially in vitamins A, B12, and zinc. Nails can become weak, brittle, and discolored (even turning orange) if the body isn’t getting enough of these nutrients.
5. Smoking and Nicotine Stains
Nail discoloration is one side effect of smoking, exposing the body to nicotine and other toxins. Heavy smokers are more likely to notice the yellowish or orangeish stains caused by nicotine. These marks can be challenging to remove and may take a long time to vanish after you quit smoking.
6. Tinea Unguium (Ringworm of the Nails)
Nails may become yellow or orange due to a fungal illness called tinea unguium, caused by dermatophytes. Nails might become brittle and fragile from this illness as well. The only way to fix this is with a correct diagnosis and antifungal medication.
7. Yellow Nail Syndrome
Nails affected by this unusual disorder grow more slowly than usual, become thicker, and take on a yellow-to-orange tint. There is still a lot of mystery behind yellow nail disease. However, it has been linked to issues in the respiratory and lymphatic systems.
8. Medications and Chemical Exposure
Certain medications and exposure to chemicals can cause changes in nail color. This may be caused by zidovudine, psoralens (PUVA), hydroxyurea, and other chemotherapy medications that stimulate melanocytes. Tetracycline use has been linked to the development of yellow transverse pigmentation.
Nail discoloration, particularly orange tones, may happen from prolonged exposure to these substances, which can also be present in cleaning products or dyes.
9. Underlying Health Conditions
Discoloration of the nails is a symptom of poor nail health, which can be caused by systemic diseases such as liver disease. Nails may take on a yellowish-orange tint from an excess of the bile pigment bilirubin in situations of liver failure.
10. Excessive Use of Self-Tanners or Staining Agents:
Self-tanning creams, especially those containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), have been linked to permanent nail discoloration and an orange hue if used excessively. Similar to how turmeric or dyes can temporarily change the color of your nails, so can exposure to these staining chemicals.
Home Remedies To Treat Orange Nails?
The right action can be performed after the root cause has been identified. Here are solutions for Orange Nails-
Change Your Nail Polish
If you suspect your orange nail paint is to blame, try switching to one of several natural, high-quality alternatives. Choose a company that cares about your nails while giving you options for fun colors.
Treat Fungal Infection
Antifungal lotions and ointments are available without a prescription and may be useful if a fungal infection is to blame for the discoloration. In extreme situations, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics that will work specifically on the illness.
Manage Psoriasis
Psoriasis-related discoloration requires managing the underlying condition. Dermatologist-prescribed topical creams, oral medications, and light therapy can help alleviate symptoms and restore nail color.
Quit Smoking
Psoriasis treatment should include measures to reduce the discoloration. Symptoms can be alleviated and natural nail color restored using a dermatologist-prescribed treatment plan that may include topical lotions, oral medications, and/or light therapy.
Improve Your Diet
Eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to combat malnutrition. Nails must be nourished, so eat a diet rich in colorful produce, complete grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
How to whiten nails instantly: Home Remedies
Whitening your nails quickly at home is possible with some methods. This includes:
Lemon Juice Soak
The natural bleaching capabilities of lemon juice can lighten the nails’ discoloration. Soak your nails in a solution of equal parts lemon juice and warm water for 10 to 15 minutes daily. After you’re done, don’t forget to moisturize.
Baking Soda Scrub
Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Clean your nails with the paste using a gentle toothbrush to remove discoloration from pigments or smoking.
Tea Tree Oil Application
The antifungal qualities of tea tree oil make it useful for treating yeast infections. Daily use of a cotton swab dipped in diluted tea tree oil can help keep nails healthy.
Vitamin E Oil Application
Nail health and beauty can both benefit from using vitamin E oil. Before you turn in for the night, massage some vitamin E oil into your cuticles and nails.
Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
There is evidence that apple cider vinegar can help with fungal infections and stains. Soak your nails in a solution of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a week.
Coconut Oil Massage
Coconut oil has moisturizing and nourishing properties, so massaging it into your nails and cuticles can boost their health and look.
FAQs
What color indicates healthy nails?
Pink nails are a sign of good health. Anemia, heart failure, and liver disease are just some conditions that abnormally pale fingernails might indicate. Inadequate diet may also play a role.
What do healthy nails look like?
Nails in good condition will be flat and devoid of ridges, lumps, or dents. Ridges on your fingernails might not affect the health of your nails in general, but you still might not want them there. White patches or lines may appear on damaged nails due to nail injury.
Final Verdict
The first step in effectively treating orange nails is pinpointing its underlying cause. Home treatments can help reduce discoloration and support healthy nails, while medical intervention may be necessary in some circumstances. However, caution is necessary and medical specialists should be consulted, especially if the root cause cannot be pinpointed or the problem persists.
