Discolored toenails are a widespread problem. For some, they are simply a cosmetic issue. For others, they can point to an underlying health condition or cause discomfort.
If you’ve noticed changes in the color of your toenails, you might be wondering what’s going on and what you can do about it. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding discolored toenails, including their causes, how to identify them, what treatment options are available, and how to prevent them from happening in the first place. While we’ll discuss some common causes and show you some discolored toenails pictures, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Often, people assume that any change in toenail color is the result of a fungal infection. However, many other conditions can mimic toenail fungus. That’s why getting a professional diagnosis is so important. Self-treating based on assumptions can delay proper treatment and potentially worsen the underlying condition.
What causes discolored toenails? Common culprits
Toenail discoloration is more than just a cosmetic issue. It often signals an underlying problem. Here are some of the most common reasons why your toenails might change color:
Onychomycosis (toenail fungus)
Toenail fungus is probably the most frequent cause of discoloration. Onychomycosis, as it’s technically known, affects a surprising number of people—up to 14 percent of us, according to some estimates.
The usual suspects in these infections are fungi called Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
Trauma and injury
Ever stub your toe really hard? Trauma to the toenail can cause bleeding under the nail. This is called a subungual hematoma, and it leads to a dark discoloration that can be alarming at first glance.
Other medical conditions
Sometimes, discolored toenails are a sign of something else going on in your body. For instance, psoriasis can cause changes to your nails, including discoloration. There’s also a rare condition called yellow nail syndrome, which, as the name suggests, leads to yellow, thickened nails. Other systemic diseases can also affect how your nails look.
What do different types of toenail fungus look like?
If you’ve noticed changes in your toenails, you may be wondering if you have toenail fungus. Here’s a breakdown of what different types of toenail fungus can look like:
Subungual Onychomycosis
This is the most common type of toenail fungus. It often starts as a white or yellowish spot under the nail. “Subungual” means it’s occurring under the nail. As the infection progresses, the toenail may:
- Thicken
- Crumble
- Separate from the nail bed
White Superficial Onychomycosis
This type of toenail fungus shows up as white spots or patches on the surface of the nail. The nail itself may become:
- Soft
- Dry
- Powdery
It’s caused by different fungi compared to subungual onychomycosis.
Candida Onychomycosis
Candida onychomycosis is less common and is often linked to chronic paronychia (inflammation of the skin around the nail). With this type, the nail may be:
- Thickened
- Discolored (yellowish-brown)
The surrounding skin can also become inflamed. It’s often connected to yeast infections, weakened immune systems, and environments that are frequently wet.
Other potential causes of toenail discoloration
While toenail fungus is the most common reason for toenails to change color, there are other potential causes to consider.
Nail polish and chemicals
If you love painting your toenails, you may have noticed that dark colors can sometimes stain the nail plate. Using dark nail polish frequently, especially without a base coat, can cause yellowing or other discoloration. Certain chemicals in nail polish removers can also contribute to this issue.
Melanonychia
Melanonychia is a condition characterized by brown or black bands in the nail. This discoloration is often caused by increased melanin production, the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanonychia can result from injury, medications, or systemic diseases. In rare cases, it can be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer, and requires careful evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections can also lead to toenail discoloration. For example, Pseudomonas bacteria can cause a greenish discoloration of the nail. This type of infection often occurs in moist environments, such as inside shoes or socks that don’t breathe well.
Risk Factors for Toenail Discoloration
Some people are more prone to developing discolored toenails than others. The biggest risk factors include:
- Age: Our toenails change as we get older.
- Nail trauma or deformities: If you’ve ever stubbed a toe or have an oddly shaped toenail, you’re more likely to develop discoloration.
- Diabetes: This condition affects circulation, which can lead to nail problems.
- Poor circulation: Lack of blood flow to the feet can cause problems.
- Weakened immune system: A compromised immune system can make you more susceptible to infections.
- Wearing occlusive footwear: Shoes that don’t breathe can create a breeding ground for problems.
- Excessive sweating: Sweaty feet can also contribute to nail discoloration.
- Exposure to moist environments: Think public pools and locker rooms.
It’s also possible to have both a bacterial and fungal infection in the nail at the same time, which can make diagnosis more complex.
Treatment Options for Discolored Toenails
If your toenails are discolored, you’re probably wondering what you can do about it.
Home Remedies
There are lots of home remedies for toenail discoloration, but keep in mind that they are unlikely to cure a toenail fungus.
Some people try tea tree oil, vinegar soaks, or baking soda paste, while others explore natural remedies like argan oil. These may give you some temporary relief, but they’re not a long-term solution. It’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor before you try any home remedy.
You can also practice good nail hygiene. Keep your nails trimmed, clean, and dry to help prevent the spread of infection. If you have white marks on your nails, file them off.
Topical Medications
Topical antifungal medications are applied directly to the nail and the skin around it. Some examples are ciclopirox, amorolfine, efinaconazole, and tavaborole.
These treatments work best for mild to moderate infections. Your doctor can tell you if a topical medication is right for you.
Oral Medications
Oral antifungal medications are pills that you take by mouth. They’re usually more effective than topical treatments for severe infections.
Some common oral medications are terbinafine, fluconazole, and itraconazole. However, these medications can have side effects, so your doctor will need to monitor you while you’re taking them.
Other Treatments
There are also other treatment options available. Laser therapy is a newer treatment that uses laser energy to kill the fungus, similar to at-home light therapy options. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the nail altogether.
Other Conditions That Look Like Toenail Fungus
Okay, so you’ve looked at the discolored toenail pictures above, and you’re pretty sure you have toenail fungus, right? Well, before you start self-treating, it’s important to know that several other conditions can look a lot like toenail fungus.
Here are a few examples:
- Psoriasis
- Nail trauma (like stubbing your toe)
- Lichen planus
- Yellow nail syndrome
- Subungual melanoma (a type of skin cancer)
Because of this, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis. Your doctor can rule out these other possibilities and make sure you’re treating the actual problem, and not something else.
Is toenail fungus contagious?
Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. It can spread from one toenail to another, to the skin on your foot, and even to other people. This happens through direct contact with surfaces that carry the fungus, like nail clippers, shared shoes, or even shower floors.
How to prevent toenail fungus
Here’s the thing about toenail fungus: it’s easier to prevent than it is to treat. So, try to get in the habit of doing the following:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- To help prevent toenail fungus, it is important to wear breathable shoes and socks.
- Avoid walking around barefoot in public places.
- Trim your toenails on a regular basis — and cut them straight across.
- Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
- Don’t share nail clippers, shoes, or socks with other people.
- If you get athlete’s foot, be sure to treat it right away.
- Change your socks and shoes on a regular basis.
Also, keep in mind that toenails are more prone to fungal infections than fingernails, mostly because they’re confined to the warm, moist environment of your shoes. This creates a breeding ground for fungus.
When to see a healthcare provider
If you think you might have toenail fungus, or if you notice any other weird changes in your toenails, it’s time to talk to your doctor. You should also seek medical help if your at-home treatments aren’t working, or if the infection gets worse or starts to spread.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, discolored toenails can be caused by a variety of things, from fungal infections to injuries to other medical problems. Getting the right diagnosis is important so you can get the right treatment.
You can prevent many types of toenail discoloration by practicing good foot hygiene and by seeking medical care as soon as you notice a problem.
If you notice changes in the color of your toenails, make an appointment with your doctor to get personalized advice and treatment.