Onycholysis happens when your nail separates from the nail bed underneath. It can happen to your fingernails or toenails, and in the beginning, you probably won’t feel any pain.
If you’ve noticed this happening to you, you’re likely wondering if there’s any onycholysis treatment at home that you can try. This guide will give you some answers, including information on the causes, symptoms, and how to treat it yourself.
It’s important to discover the reason your nail is separating. It’s also important to see a doctor if things don’t improve. The earlier you catch onycholysis, the more effectively you can treat it and the less damage you’ll sustain. If you don’t treat it, you could develop a secondary infection and may consider using decolorized iodine for safe application.
What causes onycholysis?
Many things can cause onycholysis. Here are a few of the most common reasons your nail might separate from the nail bed:
Mechanical injuries
Sometimes, a separated nail is the result of an injury.
- Improper nail care. Filing too aggressively, removing gel nail polish incorrectly, or using unclean tools for manicures and pedicures can cause onycholysis.
- Trauma. Stubbing your toe, wearing shoes that are too tight, or any other physical trauma to the area can lead to separation.
Medical conditions and medications
Underlying health issues or even certain medications can cause onycholysis.
- Underlying health issues. Allergies, thyroid problems, diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, and lichen planus have all been connected to onycholysis.
- Medications. Oral contraceptives, chemotherapy drugs, and retinoids can sometimes cause nails to lift.
Chemical exposure and moisture
Exposure to chemicals or too much moisture can also cause the problem.
- Irritants. Harsh chemicals like those found in nail polish remover or artificial nails can damage the nail bed.
- Excessive moisture. When nails are exposed to too much moisture over long periods, they can weaken and become more likely to separate.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of onycholysis
How can you tell if you have onycholysis? Here are some things to look for:
- Nail separation: The nail will start to pull away from the nail bed, usually beginning at the tip or the sides.
- Discoloration: The separated part of the nail can change color, turning white, yellow, green, or even gray. If you see discoloration, it could mean you have a secondary infection, so you may want to see a doctor.
- No pain: Onycholysis usually doesn’t hurt, unless there’s an infection or injury causing it.
How to treat onycholysis at home
If you and your doctor have decided that at-home treatment is the right path, here are some strategies to try:
Nail care practices
Here’s how to take care of your nails when you’re trying to treat onycholysis at home:
- Trim and file. Each week, use nail clippers to carefully clip away the part of the nail that’s detached. Then, gently file any rough edges to keep them from catching on things.
- Clean and dry. Wash the nail and the skin around it every day with a mild soap or cleanser. Be sure to dry your hands and feet well after washing to keep the nail bed dry.
Protective measures
It’s important to protect your nails while they’re healing.
- Wear gloves. When you’re doing chores around the house or when your hands are going to be in water or exposed to chemicals, wear protective gloves.
- Wear good shoes. Choose shoes that fit well to prevent bumping or otherwise traumatizing your toenails.
Topical treatments
These treatments may help to strengthen your nails and fight infection.
- Nail conditioners. Apply a quality nail repair product to your nails to help them grow strong and healthy.
- Antifungal treatments. If you think you might have a fungal infection, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using an over-the-counter antifungal treatment.
Lifestyle adjustments
Making a few changes in your habits can make a big difference.
- Avoid harsh products. Give your nails a break from artificial nails and harsh nail polish removers.
- Check regularly. Keep an eye on your nails and check them regularly for any changes or problems. This will help you monitor how well the treatment is working.
When to seek professional medical advice
While many cases of onycholysis clear up with home treatment, it’s essential to know when to seek medical attention. See a doctor if:
- You think a medical condition may be the cause
- You notice signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or pus
- Home remedies aren’t working, or the symptoms get worse
- You suspect a medication is causing your onycholysis
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re concerned about your nail health. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications.
Preventing Onycholysis
Once your nail separates, it can take months to grow back. So, taking some preventive measures can help you avoid onycholysis in the first place.
Proper Nail Care
Make sure to keep your nails trimmed and gently clean them. Also, avoid using harsh products. When you get manicures and pedicures, make sure the salon follows strict sanitation practices.
Avoiding Trauma
Wear shoes that fit well and protect your toes. Try to avoid activities that put repeated pressure on your toes.
Maintaining Overall Health
If you have an underlying medical condition, make sure you’re getting the right treatment and care. Maintain a healthy lifestyle so that your body can function at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cream is good for onycholysis nails?
There’s no single “magic” cream for onycholysis. However, antifungal creams (if a fungal infection is present) and moisturizers can be helpful. Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial. Consult your doctor or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and potential prescription-strength treatments.
What vitamin deficiency causes onycholysis?
While not always the cause, certain vitamin deficiencies, like iron, zinc, and biotin, have been linked to nail problems, including onycholysis. Ensuring a balanced diet or considering supplements (after consulting your doctor) might be beneficial, but it’s not a guaranteed cure.
How do you treat onycholysis yourself?
At-home treatment focuses on preventing infection and promoting healing. This includes trimming the detached nail portion, keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding harsh chemicals, and protecting the nail from further trauma. If it doesn’t improve or worsens, see a doctor.
How to fix a lifted nail bed?
“Fixing” a lifted nail bed involves allowing the nail to regrow and reattach. This requires patience and consistent care: trimming the detached part, preventing infection, and avoiding further damage. Full regrowth can take several months. If it’s not improving, seek professional help.
Does Vicks help onychomycosis?
While some people report success using Vicks VapoRub for onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), there’s limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. It might offer some relief from symptoms, but it’s unlikely to eradicate the infection completely. Prescription antifungals are generally more effective for treating onychomycosis.
Key Takeaways
Onycholysis, or nail separation, is a common problem that you can often treat at home. The most important things you can do are to figure out what’s causing the problem, take good care of your nails, and protect them from injury.
If you think your onycholysis is caused by an underlying medical condition, if you see signs of an infection, or if your nails don’t seem to be getting better, you should talk to a doctor.
With the right care, you can help your nails grow back healthy and keep onycholysis from happening again.