Fingernail or Nail Problems? Ugly, Toe Nail Fungus?

Fingernail and Toe Nail Questions and Information

2019-08-01T16:41:00.000-04:00

We had started this blog but then didn't really add to it. We have been getting so many of the same questions that we have sent a lot of duplicate emails. We will try and post relevant information about nail care here. Please search, comment or ask any questions! If you want what we believe is the best nail conditioner on the market please visit: FlexiNail

Nail Problems that you should take a closer look at

2013-05-02T20:17:00.000-04:00

Your fingernails can give you some signs that you may need to take a closer look at or even want to get or seek medical attention. This is for information only and if you are concerned you should seek advice from your physician.

Here are some signs that you should pay attention to:

Yellow discoloration
Yellow nails could result from stains (i.e. smoking) or could result from a condition that causes the nail growth to slow down. Yellowing in your fingernails could be the result from a respiratory condition like chronic bronchitis. It might also result from lymphedema – which is the swelling of the hands. In the case of yellow nails, the nail actually thickens and new nail growth slows down and that results in the yellow colorization. Although this condition may be a sign of a respiratory disease, you can also have yellow nails without a respiratory issue. See also: Yellow Nails

Nail clubbing
Nail clubbing is when the tips of your fingers enlarge and your fingernails actually curve over and around your fingertips. This condition results from low oxygen levels in your blood and could be a sign of lung problems or disease. It could also be the result of other health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or cardiovascular disease or a liver problem.

Onycholysis - separation of your nail from the nail bed
This is when your nails become loose and can even separate from the nail bed. This condition could be the result of an injury or infection to the nail; a drug reaction or reaction to a acrylic nails; a thyroid problem or even psoriasis.

Beau’s Lines (horizontal ridges or indentations)
These lines run across your nails and unlike normally harmless vertical ridges (which run the same direction as your nail grows). The horizontal lines or indentations occur because growth in the nail matrix or under the cuticle has been interrupted by a serious sickness or disease such as malnutrition, diabetes, circulatory problem or even an illness with a high fever.

Nail Fungus
Fingernail or toe nail fungus often may start as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail. It can then spread deeper into your nail and cause it to change color (usually darker), look dull, get misshaped, get thicker or even develop “crumbly” edges and it may even have a slight odor. In addition to not looking very good it can also sometimes be pretty painful. see also: Toe Nail Fungus FlexiNail Fungus Relief

Nail pitting
Nail pits are small indents or depressions in the nail itself. They might be the result of a nail injury, but are also common to those with psoriasis (scaly skin patches). The pitting nails often accompany conditions that can damage your nails cuticle. This can include chronic dermatitis of your fingers (alopecia areata) which is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. Pitting can actually cause your nails to crumble in some cases.

Opaque or white nails (Terry’s nails)
With this condition your fingernails look opaque but up at the end of the nail near the tip is a dark band. This may only be a sign of aging but it could also be a sign of a more serious illness like a liver, heart or nutrition issue.

Koilonychias - curled nails
Curled fingernails or spoon nails is called koilonychias. The nails are soft and look scooped out or like a spoon. The “scooped out” area or depression can usually actually hold a bit of liquid. This type of nail could be an indication of iron deficiency anemia.

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Chemothery and Fingernails

2012-02-14T21:50:00.000-05:00

We know chemotherapy can take a hard toll on the finger and toe nails. If you are a professional in a cancer clinic you may be able to help some of your clients that may be in a tough financial position.

FlexiNail has a small budget available to provide free or very low cost FlexiNail to people going through or recovering from the effects of chemotherapy. If you would like to access these for your clinic or facility, please email FlexiNail directly from the website... http://www.FlexiNail.com

We also accept small donations from people in this situation - whether it is just a dollar or two or twenty... and we apply these funds to helping more people with free product. Write us if you are in a position to help distribute product to those in need. We just ask that the people receiving the free product are in real financial need.

5 Things to Grow Longer, Stronger Healthier Looking Nails.

2010-11-19T13:03:00.001-05:00

Read the article on five things you can do to help your nails at:

http://www.flexinail.com/info.php/faster-growing-fingernails

Can I use FlexiNail with Nail Polish?

2010-07-02T10:16:00.000-04:00

Hi Edith,
Couple things with nail polish as you probably know. The polish often contains ingredients that evaporate or "dry" leaving the color on your nail. The polish also covers your nail. When you take off polish you probably use a very harsh acetone type product. All of these things work to dry out your nail. Add this to daily exposure to the sun or cold or water and its tough on nails.

When you use a polish, FlexiNail can't penetrate through the dried on polish. It can however, get into the nail matrix (the part under your cuticle) and up the sides of your nails under the skin where there is no polish.

What many of our customers do is get their nails back to where they want them. They then apply nail polish, but cut down on the amount of times they change colors. When the color does come off, they take a "break" from polish for a few days and apply a thin coat of FlexiNail two or three times a day on these "breaks". If your nails stay strong - then polish and the number of changes can increase. If the nail is "drying" out again - then increase the time without polish and use FlexiNail on those days.

Hope this information helps. Derek

Steps to Help Prevent Nail Fungus

2010-04-17T15:28:00.000-04:00

Here are some steps to you can consider to help prevent nail fungus and nail infections. If you have had it before you may be more likely to contact it again. consider these things:

Try to keep your feet dry and keep your toes and feet clean.

Change your socks everyday (and don't share socks or shoes)

Try not to walk barefoot in public areas (change rooms / showers)

When you can, take a break from shoes and socks

If you do have nail fungus or fingernail fungus try to wear dish gloves when doing the dishes or other stuff around the house. When you are done the chore, turn the gloves inside out to allow them to dry out.

If we are talking about the fingernails, then avoid fake nails!!

see also: Nail Problems Fungus Relief

White Spots on the Nail or Fingernail.

2010-03-15T18:19:00.000-04:00

White spots can be known as "true" leukonychia. In children this often caused by biting or picking at the nails. It is actually a damage or injury to the nail. If this is the cause, the white spots will usually grow out in approximately three months (when the nails grows out).

If the white spots are on all or most of the nails or are there for a long period of time (many months or years) one reason could be it is the sign of a zinc deficiency.

Small white or yellow spots that start on the nail could also be the start of fungal infection.

Toe Nail Fungus

2010-02-16T19:03:00.001-05:00

Nail Fungus Infection (onychomycosis) - Brief Overview:
Both fingernails and toenails can be affected, although toenail fungus is usually more common.

Symptoms: Infected nails can start off with just a small spot that can then take over the whole nail. An infected nail can become thick, yellow or dark and can even get "crumbly".

What Causes a Fungal Infection: The fungi (sometimes the same as causes athlete's foot) will "colonize" body parts like hair, nails and skin that are made of keratin. In some cases, a yeast infection may take hold.

Some Things that Increase Risk of Nail Infections: Infections can be more common in nails that may already be in a weakened state (an injury to the nail; elderly nails that may be unable to defend against the infection). Also having nails submersed in water for long periods of time or excessive moisture or sweating in the socks or even walking around barefoot in common public areas.

If you think you may have nail fungus or a nail infection you should see a physician and they can take a sample and determine if you do.

see also: Toe Fungus Relief

Koilonychia and Subungual Hematoma

2010-02-10T18:32:00.001-05:00

Koilonychia is when the nail curves upwards and forms into a spoon shape. This is thought to be caused by iron deficiency. The nail starts to change and become brittle and then changes to the cupped spoon-shape.

Subungual hematoma is when blood pools under the nail. This creates pressure and can often be painful. It may be the result of an injury or repetitive minor injuries (like running in shoes that don't fit properly). Often the pressure is released by drilling or melting a hole in the nail to release the blood.

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Nail Problems: Koilonychias (curled nails)

2010-02-10T17:01:00.003-05:00

Koilonychias - curled nails
Curled fingernails or spoon nails is called koilonychias. The nails are soft and look scooped out or like a spoon. The “scooped out” area or depression can usually actually hold a bit of liquid. This type of nail could be an indication of iron deficiency anemia.

see also: other nail problems

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Nail Problems: Nail Pitting

2010-02-10T16:12:00.001-05:00

Nail pitting
Nail pits are small indents or depressions in the nail itself. They might be the result of a nail injury, but are also common to those with psoriasis (scaly skin patches). The pitting nails often accompany conditions that can damage your nails cuticle. This can include chronic dermatitis of your fingers (alopecia areata) which is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. Pitting can actually cause your nails to crumble in some cases.

see also: other nail problems

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Nail Problems: Beau's Lines

2010-02-10T15:23:00.003-05:00

Beau’s Lines (horizontal ridges or indentations)
These lines run across your nails and unlike normally harmless vertical ridges (which run the same direction as your nail grows). The horizontal lines or indentations occur because growth in the nail matrix or under the cuticle has been interrupted by a serious sickness or disease such as malnutrition, diabetes, circulatory problem or even an illness with a high fever.

see also: other nail problems

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Nail Problems: Nail clubbing

2010-02-10T14:52:00.002-05:00

Nail clubbing
Nail clubbing is when the tips of your fingers enlarge and your fingernails actually curve over and around your fingertips. This condition results from low oxygen levels in your blood and could be a sign of lung problems or disease. It could also be the result of other health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or cardiovascular disease or a liver problem.

See also: other nail problems

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Nail Problems: Yellow Nails

2010-02-10T14:16:00.008-05:00

Yellow nails could result from stains (i.e. smoking) or could result from a another condition that causes the nail growth to slow down.

Smoking: Tar and nicotine can stain the nails. Some people try to soak the fingernails in lemon juice or use dissolved denture pills which may help, but stopping smoking will definitely do the job.

Nail Polish: Always wearing nail polish can deprive the nails of oxygen and cause stains. Some polish may also have ingredients that can stain the nail. Two things you can do to help: give your nails a break from polish once in while and consider using a clear coat before applying dark nail polishes that might stain.

Nail Fungus: If your nails turns a dark yellow it could be an indication that you have nail fungus. It could start as a small spot and then take over the whole nail. To read more on nail fungus, search this site or visit NAIL FUNGUS.

Possible Medical Conditions: Yellowing in your fingernails could be the result from a respiratory condition like chronic bronchitis. It might also result from lymphedema – which is the swelling of the hands. In the case of yellow nails, the nail actually thickens and new nail growth slows down and that results in the yellow colorization. Although this condition may be a sign of a respiratory disease, you can also have yellow nails without a respiratory issue, but if you are concerned you should have it checked out.

See also: other nail issues

For Dry, Brittle, Cracking or Peeling Nails we recommend you try FlexiNail. Read reviews from dozens of people on the website and enjoy a 100 day money-back guarantee. You will be amazed at the results of this penetrating fingernail conditioner.

Chemotherapy and Nail Problems - worth reposting

2010-02-09T17:49:00.000-05:00

Although hair loss and chemotherapy are well associated - nail problems are also a very common problem.

People write to FlexiNail and ask if it's true, "Do you really give away free product to people on chemotherapy who are having some financial troubles?"

The short answer is yes we do. The longer answer is that we also have to limit the free product we give away - or people just abuse it and write and say they are undergoing chemotherapy and want free product. When you write us, please tell us a little about yourself and your circumstances. Don't just write and request free product please. Ideally, we would like to help those people that are having a tough time and could use a break - even a little one like some free Flexinail.

Tell us what drug you're taking, a little about what you're going through and maybe why some free product would make a difference to you. We will take your email and put you on our list - we try to help out one person (and sometimes more) each day.

Write to FlexiNail at admin@FlexiNail.com and remember to stay positive.

How do fingernails grow?

2010-02-08T15:04:00.001-05:00

Your fingernails are composed of laminated protein layers of keratin. Nail growth starts out from the area at the base of the nail and under your cuticle. New cells grow and compact up against the older cells. They become hard (compacted) and are eventually actually pushed out toward the end of your fingertips.

This is why you usually have to wait months to see significant changes to your nails. You can more easily effect the "new" nail growth under the cuticle. This new nail will take time to grow out. Keep looking after this area under the cuticle and your nails should stay healthy looking.

What Causes Split Fingernails. Can you prevent them?

2010-02-07T18:16:00.001-05:00

People think that split nails are the result of a lack of a certain type of vitamins or minerals. Some even think that taking a geletin supplement will help. You might be surprised to learn that in many cases the cause of the splitting is simply exposure to water or other materials that dry out the nail like alcohol based hand sanitizers or many nail polish removers. Even dry or cold weather is a large factor in nail splitting.

All these factors serve to dry out effect the nail's natural protective state. So instead of loading up on the jello, here are some things you can do to help your nails.

- Try to reduce the amount of times you change finger nail polish color. This will reduce the use of harsh nail polish remover.

- Be gentler on your nails. Try to reduce their exposure to water for example (use gloves when doing dishes, gardening or using harsh cleaning products for example). Try to keep your hands out of the water on those long soaks in the bath tub.

- If your nails are in rough shape, keep your nails neatly trimmed to avoid snags and rips.

- Of course, we recommend using FlexiNail conditioner which was specifically developed to allow the conditioning complex to penetrate the nail's protective coating and get into the nail matrix where it can actually be effective.

What Causes Verticle Fingernail Ridges?

2010-02-04T14:07:00.005-05:00

Vertical fingernail ridges are ones that start under the cuticle and extend to the end of the nail. These are not to be confused with horizontal nail ridges (running across the nail).

The actual source or cause of these vertical ridges is unknown, but heredity is thought to play a role. These ridges tend to become more prominent as we age. Vertical ridges do not pose a health problem - although sometimes the nail becomes weaker at these ridges and will split.

There is NO product on the market that can make these ridges go away. If you are getting splitting at these ridges then gently file the ends of your nails to help stop snagging. Also a penetrating nail conditioner not only helps maintain your nails, but it is an excellent way to lessen the chances of your nail cracking or breaking at these ridges.

Again, don't confuse vertical ridges with horizontal ridges. If your nails change color or have HORIZONTAL ridges you should see your doctor as this could indicate a health problem.

see also: Nail problems FlexiNail nail conditioner

Nail Conditions: Onycholysis, Onychodystrophy, Onychomadesis, Onychomycosis, Koilonychia and Subungual Hematoma.

2010-02-02T23:28:00.001-05:00

Onycholysis is when the nail separates from the nail bed. This condition can also be associated with trauma, nail fungus, infection or as a reaction, allergy or side effect to nail enhancement products or certain drugs.

Onychodystrophy is a deformation of the nails that can result from cancer chemotherapy. It may include discoloration of the nail (dyschromia).

Onychomadesis is the term for the separation and falling off of a nail from the actual nail bed. This can sometimes be caused by infection, a minor injury to the nail matrix, a systemic illness or even as a reaction to chemotherapy.

Onychomycosis (tinea unguium) is a contageous infection caused by fungus. Thick, discolored, chalky or crumbling nails is often the result. Milder cases are sometimes treated with topical antifungal applications to attempt to avoid the potential side effects of oral medication. Consult with your physician on the best option for you.

Koilonychia is when the nail curves upwards and forms into a spoon shape. This is thought to be caused by iron deficiency. The nail starts to change and become brittle and then changes to the cupped spoon-shape.

Subungual hematoma is when blood pools under the nail. This creates pressure and can often be painful. It may be the result of an injury or repetitive minor injuries (like running in shoes that don't fit properly). Often the pressure is released by drilling or melting a hole in the nail to release the blood.

That's enough "ony" words for tonight.

Nail Polish Remover Concerns.

2010-02-01T12:07:00.000-05:00

Nail polish remover is hard on your nails. Use it infrequently as possible, especially if you are using an acetone based remover. Nail polish removers can really dry the nail out and this leads to cracking and breaking.

One suggestion is to remove your nail polish only once a week or less. Go one step further and take a polish "break" between color changes. On this "break" apply FlexiNail two or three times a day if possible (each application only takes a few seconds). These days without polish and using FlexiNail regularly help restore the nail's natural balance.

Watch this YouTube video to see how a flexible nail works.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQUhRSaIqZo

Toe Nail Fungus - Start Now for Spring

2010-01-29T13:17:00.000-05:00

Time to get rid of that unsightly toe nail fungus. Toenails take months to grow - so if you want better looking nails for spring - NOW is the time to start.

Whether you have toe nail fungus or just really ugly dry cracking nails, FlexiNail for Toes offers a 100 day money-back guarantee if you're not happy.

NEW Video of Nail Snapping 90 degrees

2010-01-12T13:20:00.004-05:00

Strong, healthy fingernails are flexible and don't snap or crack when hit or stressed. Watch this YouTube video showing a nail snap right over:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQUhRSaIqZo

What is Leukonychia Punctata?

2009-12-09T11:22:00.001-05:00

This fingernail condition may also be known as True Leukonychia. It is the more common form of Leukonychia. This occurs when small white spots appear on the nail or nails.

Biting of the nails or even picking then is often a major cause of this in younger children. In many of these cases, when there are white spots on just one or a couple of nails, it may simply be the result of an injury to nail matrix (or base of the nail). These white spots tend to disappear after around 6 to 12 weeks when the nail grows itself out.

If white spots are showing up on nearly all nails and for much longer periods of time - months or even years it could indicate a different cause. Often a common cause for this may be zinc deficiency.

What is Onychophagia? Nail Biting

2009-12-04T13:34:00.000-05:00

Nail biting is a compulsive oral habit that effects about a third of children and up to half of all teenagers.

Extreme nail biting can cause very painful fingertips, painful hangnails and broken skin around the nails that can be susceptible to infections. Bacteria can also be transmitted from under the nail to the mouth (especially if right after going to the washroom).

Treatment usually involves an inexpensive polish type application that releases a really bitter taste to discourage the biting.

TOE NAIL FUNGUS!

2009-10-08T14:05:00.004-04:00

Okay - haven't been here in a while. Cleared out the old stuff and going to make a point of getting out here frequently. We've been BUSY. We finally have a solution to toenail fungus!!!!

Toe nail fungus is a problem that effects so many people and we heard about it all the time. Estimates range from 10 - 25% of people suffer with some degree to toe nail fungus. We have put our nail expertise into coming up with a non-prescription solution. I'm going to repeat a little info here, but you can always visit: http://www.FlexiNail.com for full information.

The real problem with nail fungus is that it is NOT on the top of the nail – it is IN the nail. Simple topical creams and lotions can’t get through the protective properties of the nail and the thick, yellow or black symptoms of nail fungus that you hate are still there. You may have even considered expensive prescriptions or pills, but were unable to use this route due to liver or other health concerns.

Yet, toenail fungus is such an issue for you that you still haven’t given up and are still searching. Well, we strongly believe your search for a solution is over. FlexiNail Fungus Relief for Toes penetrates the protective coating of the nail to get to the source of that fungus.

We really encourage you to take steps to control this. Thick and discolored, unhealthy-looking nails aren’t just embarrassing, they can hurt as well – especially if caused by an infection. Don’t ignore treatment as nail fungus can spread to other nails or lead to other issues.

We are confident you are going to be very happy you didn’t give up. We are so sure, that just like our regular FlexiNail products, FlexiNail Fungus Relief for Toes comes with our 100 Day Money-Back Guarantee.

If you have a FlexiNail success story - we would love to hear from you. Either write us here, or post a testimonial on the FlexiNail website.

Click HERE for risk-free ordering information

or call us TOLL-FREE at 1-888-945-NAIL (6245)