Green acrylic nails most often indicate a bacterial infection, specifically Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which thrives in moist environments created by lifting acrylic nails. It's essentially a form of mold or mildew occurring underneath the acrylic.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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The Culprit: Bacterial Infection: The green discoloration is usually caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that produces a green pigment.
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The Cause: Lifting Acrylics & Moisture: The infection arises when the acrylic nail lifts from the natural nail, creating a pocket. Moisture gets trapped in this pocket, providing an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
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The Appearance: The green color can range from a light, almost imperceptible green to a dark, noticeable green or even blue-green. It often appears as a spot or patch on the natural nail underneath the acrylic.
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Is it Fungus? While often confused with a fungal infection, the green discoloration under acrylic nails is most commonly bacterial.
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Can the Stain Remain?: Even after treating the infection, the green stain can linger on the nail.
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Treatment:
- Remove the Acrylic: Immediately remove the acrylic nail to expose the infected area.
- Clean and Disinfect: Thoroughly clean the affected nail with soap and water, and then disinfect it.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensuring the area is completely dry is crucial to prevent the bacteria from returning.
- Consult a Professional: If the infection is severe or doesn't improve, consult a doctor or dermatologist for appropriate treatment. They might prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic.
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Prevention:
- Proper Application: Ensure acrylic nails are applied correctly by a qualified nail technician to minimize lifting.
- Regular Maintenance: Get fills regularly to prevent lifting.
- Avoid Moisture: Keep nails dry, especially after washing hands or showering. Use gloves when doing dishes or other tasks that involve prolonged exposure to water.
- Proper Hygiene: Maintain good nail hygiene.
Essentially, green acrylic nails signal that there's moisture trapped between the acrylic and your natural nail, leading to a bacterial infection. Immediate attention to remove the acrylic, disinfect the area, and keep it dry is crucial.
