Common causes of fingernail or toenail changes include trauma, aging, infection, and skin diseases. Diet is generally not responsible for abnormal nail changes, unless the person is suffering from severe malnutrition. Causes of toenail problems include trauma, ill-fitting shoes, poor circulation, poor nerve supply and infection. Some nail conditions need professional treatment from either a doctor or a dermatologist, while others respond to simple self-help techniques and minor lifestyle changes. Here are the top solutions to common nail problems:
BRITTLE NAILS
Everyone strives to have beautiful nails, but brittle nails can spoil the beauty. Weak and brittle nails that can easily become cracked or chipped are a common problem affecting both men and women.
Solution: Coconut oil is very nourishing for weak and brittle nails. The saturated fat in coconut oil works as a great moisturizer. It will also prevent many kinds of nail infections. Slightly warm some coconut oil and apply it on each nail. Massage gently and thoroughly for five minutes. This will improve blood circulation and keep the nails moisturized. Follow this remedy two to three times daily.
TOENAIL FUNGUS
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a very common problem. Symptoms include inflammation, swelling, yellowing, thickening or crumbling of the nail. It is usually not painful, unless the infection spreads.
Solution: White vinegar is one of the best ingredients for treating toenail fungus because it fights the infection and helps restore the skin’s pH. Mix one part of white vinegar with two parts of warm water. Soak the affected toenail in this solution for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse it off and dry the affected area thoroughly. Repeat twice daily until the fungus is gone.
NAIL PSORIASIS
Psoriasis along with skin and scalp can also affect the fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, thickening, and irregular contour of the nail. If psoriasis of the nails is severe and is not treated, it can lead to functional and social problems.
Solution: There are no home remedies to completely cure nail psoriasis. Though, home remedies can certainly help control the situation. In areas where the nail has loosened, gently trim the nail back to the skin where it is connected. This will allow medications to work better. Also, moisturise nails with olive oil and coconut oil regularly.
DRY NAILS
Dry nails are pre disposing to brittle nails! If dry nails are taken care of, brittle nail problem can be definitely prevented.
Solution: For dry nails, soak them in extra virgin olive oil 10-15 minutes a day for a month, then twice a week thereafter. This inexpensive home beauty treatment will help fortify damaged, weak or dry peeling nails.
NAIL INFECTION
Infection in the nail can be caused by both fungus and bacteria. It may lead to inflammation and pus formation along with occasional pain.
Solution: Known for its innumerable benefits for the body, neem oil is a great way to beat a nail infection. Packed with potent anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, a little neem oil goes a long way in beating infection of the nails. Apply a few drops of neem oil on the infected nail. Do this three times a day for immediate results.
NAIL DISCOLOURATION
Many of us suffer from the problem of yellow/discoloured nails. It occurs among both men and women, and can be a source of embarrassment.
Solution: Lemon is a natural bleaching agent and can effectively treat discoloured nails. Plus, lemon juice also works as an astringent. Fill a bowl halfway with fresh lemon juice. Soak your stained nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes. Then use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the yellow discoloration off your nails. Finally, rinse your hands with lukewarm water and then apply moisturizing lotion to replenish valuable moisture. Do this twice daily until you are happy with the results.
INGROWN TOENAIL
Onychocryptosis, or what we commonly known as ingrown toenail, is a painful nail condition in which, the nail grows cutting one or both sides of the nail bed. This nail disease is generally found in those people, who wear shoes for a long time on the daily basis. In this condition, a sharp or pointed nail digs inside the nail bed, causing pain and inflammation.
Solution: Home remedies for ingrown toenail >>