Are your nails stained or turning yellow? Whether it’s from nail polish, smoking, or daily wear and tear, discolored nails can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are effective and natural ways to restore your nails’ brightness from the comfort of your home.
The main problem with nails is that they readily become stained or discolored. This discoloration might be caused by overuse of nail polish or a lack of vitamins and minerals. You’ve probably been wondering how to whiten your nails. After all, dark nails may be both offensive and humiliating.
Clean, attractive nails are also an indication of beauty and hygiene. It’s no surprise that a lot of people spend money on manicures and pedicures to get glossy nails. Fortunately, there are some low-cost and simple at-home techniques that can help you whiten your nails quickly.
Why Do Nails Turn Yellow?
Nail discoloration can result from:
- Frequent use of dark nail polishes without a base coat
- Smoking or nicotine exposure
- Fungal infections
- Vitamin deficiency or dehydration
- Health conditions like psoriasis or diabetes
If discoloration persists, consult a dermatologist.
5 Proven Ways to Whiten Nails Naturally
Nail discoloration is both common and unavoidable when using nail polish on a regular basis. It is especially common when using dark colors such as reds, purples, blues, and black. If you can’t break up with your polish, then you should follow nail care. Always begin your nail care routine by applying a base coat to your nails before painting them. A solid base coat forms a stain-resistant barrier between your nails and your polish.
But, if the deed is done and you rushed through the preparation, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The following are the most efficient nail-whitening methods.
1. Whitening Toothpaste
How it works: Contains mild abrasives and hydrogen peroxide that break down stains.
Steps:
- Begin by polishing your nails until they are shiny.
- Allow a thin layer of toothpaste to rest on your nails for 10 minutes.
- Gently scrub your nails with an old toothbrush.
- Using cotton balls soaked in water, remove the toothpaste.
Do this 2–3 times per week.
2. Denture Cleaner
Soaking your nails in a denture cleaner also works well for removing stains. Denture cleaners contain a mild bleaching ingredient, dilute sodium hypochlorite.
Things You Need:
- Denture cleaner tablet
- ½ cup warm water
- Bowl
We suggest Dental Duty Denture Cleaning Tablets
Steps:
- In a bowl of warm water, dissolve one denture cleanser tablet.
- Soak your hands in the solution for around 10 minutes after the tablet dissolves in the water.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Finish with a moisturizer and you’re done!
3. Lemon Juice And Baking Soda
According to nail experts, combining lemon juice with baking soda generates a potent nail-cleaning paste. It immediately whitens and brightens dull, discolored nails.
Things You Need:
- Half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- Old toothbrush
- A bowl
Steps:
- In a bowl, squeeze half of a lemon.
- Stir in the baking soda until it becomes gritty and paste-like.
- Apply the paste to your nails and wait 10 minutes.
- Scrub your nails with the paste with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse your hands with mild soap and warm water.
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4. White Vinegar
Another weak acid that can remove stains from hard surfaces is vinegar. However, always use white vinegar because other types of vinegar will stain your nails.
Things You Need:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
- Bowl
Steps:
- Add a cup of warm water to a bowl.
- Add one tablespoon of white vinegar to the water.
- Soak your nails for 10 min in the solution.
- Rinse your nails thoroughly with warm water and wipe them dry with a towel.
- To keep your skin from drying out, apply lotion to your hands.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide & Baking Soda Soak
How it helps: Oxidizes stains and cleanses deeply.
Steps:
- Combine 1 tbsp of hydrogen peroxide (3%) with 2.5 tbsp of baking soda.
- Apply the paste, leave for 5 minutes, and rinse.
Follow up with cuticle oil to avoid dryness.
Prevent Future Nail Discoloration
- Always apply a clear base coat before nail polish.
- Let nails “breathe” between manicures.
- Wear gloves when cleaning or doing dishes.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
When to See a Doctor
If your nails are:
- Persistently yellow or brown
- Thick, brittle, or have ridges
- Accompanied by pain or odor
Seek medical advice to rule out infections or systemic issues.
Conclusion
Appropriate nail care is crucial as it shows your style. If you’re looking for professional nail treatment alternatives, this article got you covered. These home remedies can whiten the nails and reduce the yellowness, allowing you to show off your nails with confidence. Further, if these methods do not work, it is advised to see a doctor to find out what is causing the yellow nails.
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