ARTICLE/NEWS

Everything about nail problems and how to solve it ! 2010-02-02

Damaged nails

Just as poor health and dietary deficiencies can inhibit the growth of a nail, so can illness and diet influence the condition of otherwise sound nails. Resulting damage can be of short- term duration and requires immediate attention. Internal causes should be referred to a qualified doctor or dermatologist for treatment.

Internal causes

In general, any circulatory condition that reduces the supply of blood to the matrix of the nail prevents it from receiving proper nourishment and developing normally. Other health problems that can affect the nails include glandular disorders, poor metabolism, allergies, anemia, and deficiencies of calcium, certain amino acids and other essential nutrients.

External causes

A healthy nail can be damaged in many ways to include:

• Direct contact with solvents, strong detergents and other cleaning products.

• Over-exposure to sunlight or dry atmospheric conditions, heavy pressure or a strong blow against a hard object.

• Application of nail lacquer directly to the nail plate, without protection of a preliminary base coat.

Most externally caused nail problems, however - as well as many of those systemic in nature - can be alleviated through the use of specially formulated ORLY treatment products.

 

Common Nail Disorders

Nail disorders comprise about 10 percent of all skin conditions. Most of us, at one time or another has closed fingers in doors, suffered from ingrown toenails, or endured minor nail infections. Most minor nail injuries heal on their own, but more serious injuries or disorders may require professional treatment. Symptoms that could signal nail problems include color or shape changes, swelling of the skin around the nails, and pain.

 

Onchomycosis (Fungus)

 

Fungi are one type of tiny, plant-like organisms that live on your body or inside it. To survive, fungi absorb nutrients from other living or dead things. They thrive in warm, moist places, like underneath your toenails.

It is estimated that around 36 million people in the United States have Onychomycosis, a fungal nail infection. Fungal nail infections are more common in toenails, but they also occur in fingernails. They are more likely in adults and often follow a fungal foot infection, like athlete's foot. When the nail is infected with fungi, it becomes yellowish, dry and brittle. The nail also becomes thicker, as layers of fungi grow and bloom. The nail may even separate from the skin, slightly rising off the toe causing Onycholysis.

Locker rooms, public pools, gym showers and nail salon foot baths can all be sources of fungal infections. Fungi love these hot, damp environments. If the foot bath is not properly cleaned and disinfected after a pedicure, fungi can live there, infecting the next person that puts their feet in the bath.

Although they may not hurt, it is best to treat fungal infections early. Untreated fungal infections can become very painful, making it difficult to walk and uncomfortable to wear shoes. ORLY’s FungusMD is an FDA registered anti-fungal treatment formulated to eliminate fungus on both hands and feet. FungusMD features a dropper application system as a hygienic alternative to brush-on applicators.

 

Beau's Lines (Corrugations)

 

This condition is often indicated by furrows or wavy horizontal lines across the nails and may result from an internal disorder. Very mild cases may be treated carefully by gently buffing to help smooth out furrows, and applying 1-2 coats of ORLY Ridgefiller. This provides a smooth, even foundation for applying the client’s favorite shade of ORLY lacquer. Refer more severe cases to a physician.

 

White Spots

 

White spots are very common and usually recur. These small, semi-circular spots result from injury to the base (matrix) of the nail, where nail cells are produced. They are not usually a cause for concern, and will eventually grow out.

 

Hemorrhage (bruised nails)

 

Bruised nails are those with spots of blood or bruises under the nail plate caused by injury. New nail growth will depend on the extent of the damage. Refer to a physician if the nail is badly bruised. Very mild cases may be treated by taking special care to avoid further pain or damage. Do not buff the nail. Apply a coat of Nail Armor, two coats of ORLY lacquer, and favorite topcoat. Suggest weekly manicures until the bruise grows out.

 

Onychophagy (nail biting)

 

Chronic nail biting deforms the nail plate and damages tissue surrounding the nail. The result is often unattractive nails and the introduction of bacteria that may cause illness and minor but permanent nail deformities. Regular manicures are a must! Suggest the use of ORLY’s No-Bite Nail Biting Deterrent to help break the habit.

 

Hangnails

 

Hangnails are small tears or splits in the nail plate or surrounding tissue. Usually the result of nail biting, they may also be caused by dry skin or injury. If untreated they may tear and become raw, painful, and subject to infection. Mild cases may be treated. Recommend weekly manicures and the use of ORLY’s Cuticle Care Complex during the day and Cuticle Therapy Crème nightly. Badly damaged areas should be treated by a physician.

Always report any nail irregularities to a doctor. Nail changes, swelling, and pain could signal a serious problem. 

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