What the heck is on my fingers?!?

Question

i have fake nails on, and just today i noticed that my pinky nail has brown lines going down it. what is it? it's not painful? and it's not crumbling like it would most likely be if it were a fungus!

Answer 1

Hi
it may be the start of a fungal infection

what to do

Usually a fungus will have an unpleasant smell to it - with a nail file dig gently under the nail to dislodge some debris - if the smell "cheesy" there is possibility of something fungal.

Dont panic - prevention is better than cure. Clip back your nail, then rough it up with an emery board and try to soak you finger in a cup of vinegar twice a day (10 mins)
This will give the fungis (if it is present) a nasty little shock as fungi cannot live in acidic environments

Answer 2

Nail fungus is a fungal infection that is typically caused by a fungus which belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. Although there are other fungi which are responsible for nail fungal infections.

Nearly all of them live in warm, dark and moist environments. Some include swimming pools, showers and even shoes that do not get constant airing.

Nail fungus normally enters your nail through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. Many people experience nail fungus when they damage their nail.

Acrylic nails are also a big cause of nail fungus.

You see, fake nails trap moisture under the nail. And when you where fake nails, there's no way the nail can dry.

... Absolutely none!

So what happens is that your fingernail produces an environment for the fungi to thrive!

And that's what's happening in your little pinky.

... It's like the fake nail is creating a mini environment which fungi love! And that's what's causing your pinky to have brown lines going down it.

Anyway, here's a few things you can do.

* Take out your fake nails.

* Keep nails short and file down thickened areas on your fingernail.

* Never share your nail utensils with others, especially of they have nail fungus. Nail fungus can spread.

* Dry your hands after showing, and if they becoming wet.

I would always get it tested by a doctor to make sure it's not something else.

Answer 3

It is a fungus, I had that problem about 3 yrs. ago. It happens when the artificial nail starts to grow out and you get water or any other kind of liquids under it. When you go get them filled in, that stuff is still under there, that is why you should get a fill in every other week. Apply an anti-fungal liquid , and it should go away in about 2-wks. It's also a good idea to have the artificial nails removed every 6 months to let your natural nails breathe.