If you’ve ever had a greenish discharge from your acrylic nails, you may wonder what it is and how to get rid of it. Green fungus is an infection caused by a type of yeast called Candida. It can be challenging to treat, but with the right medical help, it usually goes away within a few weeks. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about fingernail fungus from acrylic nails, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Contents of Article
What is a green fungus on nails?
Green fungus is a type of infection that can form under your acrylic nails. It’s caused by a kind of yeast called Candida, which can be challenging. If you notice any signs of green fungi, such as a white or greenish discharge from your nails, seek medical help immediately. Treatment typically includes a combination of oral and topical antifungal medications and the removal of infected nails. The fingernail fungus from acrylic nails usually clears up within a few weeks with proper treatment.
Symptoms of fungus on fingernails from acrylic nails:
- White or greenish discharge from your nails
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails
- Nails that are lifting away from the nail bed
- Pain, redness, or swelling around your nails
Why is my nail turning green under my acrylic?
If you notice that your nail is turning green under your acrylic, it’s likely due to a bacterial infection.
How to get rid of green fungus under acrylic nail
If you notice any green fungus under your acrylic nails, seek medical help immediately. Treatment typically includes a combination of oral and topical antifungal medications and the removal of infected nails. The fingernail fungus usually clears up within a few weeks with proper treatment.
Medical treatments
1. Antifungal medications
Topical antifungal medications are applied to the affected nails and can be purchased over the counter or by prescription. Common topical treatments for green fungus include clotrimazole (Lotrimin), miconazole (Micatin), and terbinafine (Lamisil). Oral antifungal medications are taken by mouth and are only available by prescription. These drugs can have side effects, so talk to your doctor about all potential risks and benefits before starting any medication.
2. Removing infected nails
In addition to medical treatment, you’ll also need to remove the infected nails. This can be done by a podiatrist or dermatologist. After the pins are removed, you’ll need to take steps to prevent the fungus from returning, such as keeping your nails clean and dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding nail salons that don’t follow proper sanitation procedures.
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But several home remedies can help you as well:
Home remedies
1. Soak your nails in apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help kill the fungus causing your infection. To use this remedy, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl. Soak your affected nails in the mixture for 20 minutes, then rinse them with warm water. Repeat this process twice daily until your symptoms improve.
2. Try tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is another home remedy with antifungal properties. To use it, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with olive oil or coconut oil. Rub the mixture onto your affected nails and let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash it off with warm water. Repeat this process twice daily until your symptoms improve.
3. Use hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant that can help kill the fungus causing your infection. To use it, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl. Soak your affected nails in the mixture for 10 minutes, then rinse them with warm water. Repeat this process twice daily until your symptoms improve.
4. Try oregano oil
Oregano oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help treat your green nail fungus. To use it, mix a few drops of oregano oil with olive oil or coconut oil. Rub the mixture onto your affected nails and let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash it off with
Can I paint over my green nail?
If you’re looking for a way to cover up your green nails, don’t worry – you can do it! All you need to do is make sure the nail plate is clean and free of any residue before painting them. Putting on a fresh set of artificial nails is also a good idea.
Green fungus is a type of infection that can be difficult to treat, but with the right medical help, it usually goes away within a few weeks. If you think you may have green fungus under your acrylic nails, seek medical attention right away. Treatment typically includes a combination of oral and topical antifungal medications and removal of the infected nails. The green fungus usually clears up within a few weeks with proper treatment.
When to see a doctor
If you have any signs of green fungus under your acrylic nails, seek medical attention immediately. Fingernail fungus is a type of infection that can be difficult to treat, so getting started on treatment as soon as possible is essential. Treatment typically includes a combination of oral and topical antifungal medications and the removal of infected nails. The green fungus usually clears up within a few weeks with proper treatment.
Possible complications
Bacterial infection is one of the most common risks and can be caused by either fungus or bacteria. Allergic reactions to the adhesive or acylates used in acrylic nails are also possible, as is nail weakening from filing down your natural nails to make way for the artificial ones.
However, these risks can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. So if you’re looking for an easy way to have pretty nails that last, acrylic nails may be appropriate for you!
How to Prevent Green Nails After False Nails
When you get a set of false nails, it’s essential to know how to keep them looking their best. One common problem is that nails can start to turn green after a few days. This is often due to the adhesive used to attach the nails to your natural nails.
You can do a few things to help prevent this from happening. First, make sure you’re using a good-quality adhesive. Avoid cheap brands, as they often contain harmful chemicals that can cause your nails to turn green.
Also, be sure to remove your false nails properly. Don’t just pull them off – this can damage your natural nails and make them more susceptible to turning green. Instead, use an adhesive remover or acetone to dissolve the adhesive.
Here are several tips on how to avoid bacteria infection:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Rub alcohol on your nails before applying acrylic nails
- Disinfect any tools you use in and around your nails
- Ensure a good fit over your nail bed (it’s common to apply a nail that’s too large for your natural nail)
- Allow your natural nails to dry before applying artificial nails
- Do not expose your nails to water for at least two hours after using an artificial nail
- Avoid buffing the surface of your nails, as this creates micro-tears that could potentially get infected
- Only visit clean and licensed nail salons (although it’s important to understand that even the most experienced and careful techs cannot always prevent an infection)
- Keep your hands dry and avoid any long-term water exposure.
These tips can help keep your false nails looking their best for longer!
Is It Really a Fungus? Understanding Chloronychia
While commonly referred to as “green fungus,” the greenish discoloration under an acrylic nail is actually almost always a bacterial infection, not a fungal one. This condition is medically known as Green Nail Syndrome or chloronychia.
Here is what is actually happening under your nail:
- The Culprit: The infection is primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. These bacteria produce green pigments (pyocyanin and pyoverdin) that deeply stain the natural nail plate.
- Moisture Trapping: Acrylic nails create a warm, dark, and moist environment. If the acrylic lifts slightly (onycholysis) due to trauma or improper application, water from washing your hands or showering gets trapped underneath—creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
- Nail Trauma: Constant exposure to harsh detergents, soaps, or physical trauma can cause the nail to separate from the bed, allowing the Pseudomonas bacteria to enter and thrive.
Effective Home Treatments for Green Nail Syndrome
Because green nail syndrome is bacterial, the treatment approach differs from standard fungal infections. The most crucial first step is to remove the acrylic nail immediately. Exposing the bacteria to oxygen is often enough to stop its growth.
Once the acrylic is removed, follow these steps:
- Keep It Dry: Moisture is the enemy. Maintain strict hygiene and keep the affected nail bed completely clean and dry to prevent the bacteria from multiplying.
- Vinegar Soaks: A highly recommended home remedy is soaking the affected finger in a diluted white vinegar solution twice a day. The acidity creates an inhospitable environment where the bacteria cannot survive.
- Allow the Stain to Fade: The green color is often just a pigment stain left behind. Even after the bacteria are dead, the stain may remain until the nail naturally grows out, which can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks.
