Why are my nails turning brown?

Melanonychia is caused when the pigment cells, called melanocytes, deposit melanin — brown-colored pigment — into the nail. These deposits are usually grouped together. As your nail grows, it causes the stripe of brown or black to appear on your nail.

What does it mean when your nails are brown?

The brown discoloration is due to a condition called "melanonychia," which occurs when the nail has excess melanin, a dark brown or black pigment that colors the hair, skin and iris of the eye. As for the lines across the nails, which look like a manicurist painted them on, they have two causes.

What causes discoloration of nails?

Nail discoloration, in which the nails appear white, yellow, or green, can result from different infections and conditions of the skin. In about 50% of cases, discolored nails are a result of infections with common fungi that can be found in the air, dust, and soil.

Are brown nails normal?

Healthy fingernails and toenails should be white as it grows off the nail bed and the nail plate a pinkish color. Pitted brown spots in fingernails may indicate a skin and joint disorder called psoriasis.

Why are my nails brownish yellow?

Yellowing nails is commonly due to a nail infection or fungus. Nasty, we know, but it happens! Other symptoms of a fungal infection can include flaking of the nail and an unpleasant odour. If left untreated, the nail bed could retract, causing it to thicken and crumble.

Causes and treatment of brownish fingernails - Dr. Amee Daxini

Why are my white nails turning brown?

Extreme UV Light Exposure Whilst Drying

If gel nails are left under a UV light for too long, or for too short of a time, they can cause your white nail polish to turn brown. Additionally, too long under the UV light can also lead to bubbly nail polish.

What do nails look like with anemia?

Spoon nails (koilonychia) are soft nails that look scooped out. The depression usually is large enough to hold a drop of liquid. Often, spoon nails are a sign of iron deficiency anemia or a liver condition known as hemochromatosis, in which your body absorbs too much iron from the food you eat.

What vitamin deficiency causes brown lines in fingernails?

Nail color changes.

Nail plate discoloration can result from several nutritional deficiencies. Research has shown vitamin B12 deficiency to cause brown-gray nail discoloration.

What do renal failure nails look like?

Nail changes.

People who have advanced kidney disease can develop: A white color on the upper part of one or more nails and a normal to reddish brown color below, as shown here (half-and-half nails) Pale nails. White bands running across one or more nails (Muehrcke's nails)

Is melanonychia treatable?

The treatment options for melanonychia will depend on the primary cause. If the cause is benign, the individual may not need treatment. Some cases of melanonychia may fade after addressing the cause. For example, if drugs are the cause, melanonychia should fade within 6–8 weeks of stopping the treatment.

Why are my toe nails dark?

Black Toenail: Common Causes

If your toenail turns black, it's most likely a bruise under the nail, technically called a subungual hematoma. You can get it from stubbing a toe or from footwear that cram your feet into the front of the shoe.

Why are my nails stained orange?

When they become discolored, it usually means that you've picked up an infection or nail fungus. It can also mean that your nails have been stained by a product like nail polish, or that you're having an allergic reaction.

Is melanonychia serious?

Melanonychia is a very worrisome entity for most patients. It is characterized by brownish black discoloration of nail plate and is a common cause of nail plate pigmentation. The aetiology of melanonychia ranges from more common benign causes to less common invasive and in situ melanomas.

Can fingernails show signs of illness?

Did you know your nails can reveal clues to your overall health? A touch of white here, a rosy tinge there, or some rippling or bumps may be a sign of disease in the body. Problems in the liver, lungs, and heart can show up in your nails.

Why are my cuticles turning brown?

Brown lines that run into the cuticle could be a sign of melanoma. Ones that stop at or before the cuticle are likely caused by moles.

Can low vitamin D affect nails?

Vitamin D regulates calcium levels in the body which is an essential contributor to having healthy nails. If you find yourself with brittle and weak nails, it could mean a lack of Vitamin D.

Is melanonychia common?

Longitudinal melanonychia, also known as melanonychia striata, is not a rare clinical condition. It is mostly characterized by the presence of longitudinal, demarcated, and pigmented bands on the nail unit. Melanin pigment in the nail plate and/or nail bed manifests as tan, brown, or black streaks.

How do you know if your iron is low in your body?

Common symptoms include fatigue, palenes, shortness of breath, and dry or damaged hair and skin. If you think you have symptoms of iron deficiency, talk with a doctor.

How can I check my iron levels at home?

How can I raise my iron levels quickly?

Does hand sanitizer discolor nail polish?

Using alcohol-based beauty products or hand sanitizer can break down nail polish. It's not just household soaps and cleansers that can destroy your manicure — in fact, plenty of your favorite beauty products can do some damage, too.

Why did my nail turn brown after acrylics?

Treating Acrylic Nail Fungus and Infection

Improper positioning of artificial nails can allow fungus to grow. You also can develop a fungal nail infection if the manicurist uses unsanitary tools to apply the nails. The symptoms of a nail fungus infection include: Nail discoloration (often green or yellow)