If you wear acrylic or gel nails, you may have noticed a strange green spot appearing under your manicure. If this has happened to you, you’re probably wondering, “Why is my nail green under acrylic?”
Don’t worry: You’re not alone. Many people experience this. And, luckily, it’s usually not serious.
This article explains why nails sometimes turn green under acrylics, clears up some common misconceptions, and provides tips for prevention and treatment.
Usually, a green nail is caused by a bacterial infection, not mold. It’s often caused by moisture getting trapped between your natural nail and the artificial nail on top.
What is Green Nail Syndrome (Chloronychia)?
If you have a green spot on your nail, you may have what’s known as Green Nail Syndrome, or Chloronychia. It’s a bacterial infection of the nail that causes the nail plate to turn green.
The green color comes from a pigment made by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria.
Common misconceptions
Many people think that green nails are caused by mold or a fungus, but that’s not accurate. Green Nail Syndrome is not a fungal infection.
Also, Green Nail Syndrome is not highly contagious. It’s an opportunistic infection that usually needs specific conditions to develop.
The culprit: Pseudomonas aeruginosa
If you see a green spot under your acrylic nails, the most likely cause is a bacterial infection from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacteria is everywhere — it’s in the soil, it’s in the water, it’s all around us.
It’s also an opportunistic pathogen. It doesn’t usually cause problems, but if it finds the right conditions, it can cause an infection.
And what are the right conditions for Pseudomonas to thrive? Moist, dark, airless environments. In other words, the perfect spot between your natural nail and your acrylic nail. The bacteria then produce pigments called pyocyanin and pyoverdine, which cause that telltale green color.
Why do green nails develop under acrylics and gels?
If you wear artificial nails, you’ll want to be on the lookout for green spots. Here’s why you might see them.
Moisture and trapped environments
The main culprit for green nails is moisture that gets trapped between your natural nail and the acrylic or gel. That small amount of moisture can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Acrylic and gel nails can lift if your natural nails are thin or if you don’t remove artificial nails frequently enough. Once lifting happens, moisture can get trapped, and bacteria can grow.
Risk factors
Some things that increase your risk of developing green nails include:
- Improper nail preparation before applying acrylic or gel
- Damage to your natural nail during application or removal of artificial nails
- Infrequent fills or replacement of artificial nails
- DIY gel removal
Onycholysis (when your nail separates from the nail bed) creates space where bacteria can grow.
Nail salon hygiene
It’s important to choose a nail salon with good hygiene practices. Nail professionals should use dedicated tools to remove gels and acrylics, and they should disinfect their tools between clients.
Treatment and what to do if you have green nails
So, you’ve got a green nail? Here’s what to do next.
Initial steps
First, you’ll want to remove the acrylic or gel nail right away. That’s because the space between your real nail and the artificial nail is the perfect place for moisture to get trapped.
But don’t think that just taking off the artificial nail will make the infection go away. You’ll probably need to do a little more.
Home treatment
You can try cleaning the green nail with isopropyl alcohol or another antiseptic product. This may help to kill the bacteria, but it won’t necessarily remove the stain right away.
When to seek professional help
If your green nail doesn’t improve with home treatment, it may be time to visit a doctor or dermatologist.
You should also see a doctor if you have a weakened immune system, another illness, or any other health concerns.
Nail care and salon practices
Taking good care of your nails and choosing a reputable salon can go a long way toward preventing green nail syndrome.
At-home nail care
It’s important to keep your nails clean and dry. Bacteria and fungus love moisture, so avoid getting your nails wet for long periods of time. Dry your hands thoroughly after washing, and try to avoid activities that involve prolonged water exposure, such as washing dishes without gloves.
Cuticle oil can help keep your nails healthy and prevent lifting, which is when the acrylic separates from your natural nail.
It can be tempting to pick or peel off your nail polish, but resist the urge. Peeling off polish can damage your nail and create a perfect entry point for bacteria.
Choosing a reputable nail salon
When you get your nails done, make sure to choose a salon that has strict hygiene standards. The tools and equipment should be properly sterilized to prevent the spread of bacteria and fungus.
When you have gel or acrylic nails, get fills and replacements regularly to avoid lifting. It’s also important to have gel or acrylic nails removed professionally. When you try to remove them yourself, you can damage your nails and create openings for bacteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a greenie the nail tech’s fault?
A “greenie,” or bacterial infection, can be caused by improper nail prep or application techniques. If moisture gets trapped between the acrylic and your natural nail, bacteria like Pseudomonas can thrive. While the tech may have contributed, your aftercare also plays a role.
Will my green nail go away on its own?
Unfortunately, a Pseudomonas infection won’t typically resolve without treatment. The green discoloration is a sign of active bacteria. Covering it up with more acrylic will only worsen the problem and could potentially spread the infection.
How do you get rid of a greenie fast?
The key is to remove the acrylic and allow the nail to air out. Over-the-counter antiseptic solutions, like tea tree oil or diluted bleach soaks, can help kill the bacteria. However, severe infections may require a visit to a doctor for prescription antibiotics or antifungals.
What kills green nail?
Antiseptic solutions such as tea tree oil, rubbing alcohol, or diluted bleach are effective at killing Pseudomonas bacteria. Prescription topical or oral antibiotics may be necessary for stubborn or severe infections. It’s best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist for the best treatment plan.
What happens if you don’t drain blood under your nail?
This question is relevant for a subungual hematoma (blood under the nail), not a greenie. If you suspect a bruised toenail, understanding the differences is key. If you don’t drain the blood, the pressure can cause significant pain. The blood will eventually dry and the nail may detach. Draining it can relieve the pressure and potentially save the nail, but it’s best done by a professional to avoid infection.
Conclusion
If your nail turns green under acrylics or gels, don’t panic! It’s most likely a Pseudomonas bacterial infection and not mold. The best way to avoid this is to take good care of your nails, choose reputable salons, and avoid trapping moisture between your natural nail and the artificial nail.
If you see a green discoloration, don’t ignore it! Get treatment right away. If you’re not sure what to do, talk to a professional to keep your nails healthy.